Horsethief Campground

Nestled amidst the stunning red rock landscapes and expansive mesas of southeastern Utah, Horsethief Campground offers an authentic high desert camping experience for locals and visitors alike. Administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), this popular campground provides a rustic yet comfortable base from which to explore some of Utah's most iconic natural wonders. For those in Utah seeking adventure, solitude, and direct access to world-class outdoor recreation, Horsethief Campground is a destination that consistently delivers.

Unlike some of the more developed campgrounds, Horsethief embraces a simpler approach to camping, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. It's a place where the stars shine brighter, the sunrises paint the sky with fiery hues, and the scent of juniper and pinyon pine fills the air. Whether you're a seasoned camper with a fully equipped RV or a tent-pitching enthusiast, Horsethief offers a welcoming environment for all who wish to connect with the rugged beauty of the Moab area. Its reputation for cleanliness and strategic location between two major national parks makes it a top choice for Utahns looking for an accessible and unforgettable outdoor escape.

Horsethief Campground boasts an enviable location that is truly at the nexus of Moab's most celebrated natural attractions. You'll find it conveniently situated off UT-313, a scenic highway that acts as the gateway to both the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park and the awe-inspiring Dead Horse Point State Park. Specifically, the address is UT-313, Moab, UT 84532, USA.

For Utah locals, this means a relatively straightforward drive from many of the state's population centers. From Salt Lake City, the journey typically takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, offering a picturesque drive through varying Utah landscapes. Even for those coming from southern Utah communities like St. George, the trip is manageable, usually ranging from 5 to 6 hours. The campground's elevation, around 5,500 to 5,850 feet, provides slightly cooler temperatures than the town of Moab during the warmer months, a welcome relief for summer adventurers.

One of the most significant advantages of Horsethief's location is its incredible proximity to major mountain biking and hiking trail systems. Many of these trails are accessible directly from the campground, allowing you to hit the dirt without needing to load up your gear and drive. This direct access enhances the overall camping experience, making it incredibly convenient for active individuals and groups. Furthermore, the short drive to Moab provides easy access to essential supplies, from groceries and fuel to specialized outdoor gear and repair shops, ensuring you have everything you need for your adventure.

Services Offered

• Individual Campsites: Horsethief offers 83 individual campsites, available on a first-come, first-served basis, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs (with certain loops designated tent-only).
• Group Campsites: There are also five reservable group campsites, ideal for larger parties of up to 20 people and multiple vehicles.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are conveniently dispersed throughout the campground loops.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a sturdy picnic table for outdoor dining and gathering.
• Fire Rings with Grates: Designated fire rings with grates are provided at each site, perfect for campfires and cooking (always check current fire restrictions).
• Trash Collection: Waste receptacles are available to help campers keep the area clean and minimize their impact.
• Accessibility: Group Campsite A is specifically designed to be accessible, featuring accessible vault toilets, a shade structure over accessible picnic tables, an accessible grill/fire pit, and elevated tent pads.

Features / Highlights

• Strategic Location: Unbeatable proximity to the entrances of both Arches National Park and the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park, typically within a 15-minute drive.
• Direct Trail Access: Unparalleled access to an extensive network of mountain biking and hiking trails, including the popular Horsethief area trails and proximity to the Navajo Rocks system.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Moab's iconic red rock canyons, mesas, and the La Sal Mountains, providing spectacular sunrise and sunset opportunities.
• First-Come, First-Served Sites: A significant portion of the individual campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips.
• BLM Managed: Ensures a rugged, natural camping experience on public lands, maintained by the Bureau of Land Management.
• Cooler Temperatures: Due to its higher elevation, Horsethief Campground often enjoys slightly cooler temperatures than the town of Moab, especially during the warmer seasons.
• Spacious Campsites: Campers frequently commend the generous size and spacing of the campsites, offering a good degree of privacy.

Contact Information

Address: UT-313, Moab, UT 84532, USA

Phone: (435) 259-2100

Mobile Phone: +1 435-259-2100

For Utahns, Horsethief Campground is more than just a place to sleep under the stars; it's an essential part of the Moab outdoor experience. Its prime location makes it incredibly suitable for locals who want to maximize their time exploring the renowned national parks and vast trail systems without excessive travel. The first-come, first-served availability for many individual sites also offers a degree of spontaneity that is often appreciated by those looking for a quick weekend escape or a last-minute adventure. Being able to pack up the car and head out, knowing there's a good chance of finding a spot, is a huge convenience for local residents.

Furthermore, the campground's proximity to world-class mountain biking trails means that local riders can truly immerse themselves in the sport, riding directly from their campsite onto challenging and scenic routes. Even for those not on two wheels, the access to hiking, photography opportunities, and simply soaking in the expansive desert views makes it an ideal retreat. While reviews mention the open, sometimes windy conditions and lack of shade, these are characteristic aspects of the high desert environment that many Utah locals are accustomed to and often embrace as part of the authentic experience. It's a place where you can disconnect from the daily grind, breathe in the fresh desert air, and reconnect with the incredible natural beauty that Utah offers right in its backyard. Horsethief Campground is truly a local gem, inviting you to discover your next great outdoor adventure.

You can see more about Horsethief Campground in this video: (https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ONtih2zYGqk&t=0s)

Horsethief Campground

UT-313, Moab, UT 84532, USA