North Klondike Campground

Utah is a magnet for outdoor adventurers, known globally for its iconic red rock landscapes, challenging trails, and vast stretches of wild beauty. For locals throughout the Beehive State, finding that perfect camping spot – one that balances accessibility with a true sense of escape – is part of the ongoing adventure. Nestled within this spectacular environment, particularly near the adventure hub of Moab, is North Klondike Campground. This Bureau of Land Management (BLM) site offers a unique and highly appealing experience, especially for mountain biking enthusiasts and those simply seeking a quiet, well-maintained base to explore the region.

North Klondike Campground is not just another place to pitch a tent; it’s strategically located adjacent to the extensive North Klondike mountain bike trail system, making it a dream destination for riders. Beyond the trails, its high-desert setting provides stunning views of Copper Ridge, surrounding bluffs, and the distant La Sal Mountains. While it offers a more primitive camping experience without water or electrical hookups, it excels in providing essential amenities and a peaceful atmosphere that many larger, more developed campgrounds often lack. Its popularity stems from its well-kept facilities and its direct connection to world-class outdoor recreation.

This article aims to serve as a comprehensive guide for Utah locals, detailing what makes North Klondike Campground a superb choice for your next outdoor excursion. We'll cover its exact location and how to access it, the specific services and facilities you can expect, the unique features that highlight its appeal, and why it stands out as an excellent option for experiencing the rugged beauty and thrilling activities of the Moab area.

North Klondike Campground is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Moab Field Office and is located in the expansive desert landscape north of Moab, within Utah. While a specific street address isn't applicable in the traditional sense for this type of campground, its geographical coordinates are approximately 38.823367 N, -109.765781 W, placing it squarely in the outdoor recreation zone of Utah. The closest town, and common reference point, is Moab, Utah.

To reach North Klondike Campground from Moab, you'll drive approximately 23 miles north on Highway 191. Look for BLM Road 143 and turn right, immediately crossing over railroad tracks. From Interstate 70, take exit 182 for Crescent Junction/Moab, then head south on Highway 191 for about 8.6 miles before turning left onto BLM Road 143. After turning onto BLM Road 143, follow the maintained dirt road for approximately 1 mile, following signs for North Klondike Bluffs and the campground and trailheads.

The road to the campground is generally maintained dirt, and while not overly rough, it's advisable to be aware of conditions, especially after heavy rain, though a high-clearance vehicle is typically not required. The campground itself features gravel parking pads for each campsite, ensuring relatively easy maneuvering for most vehicles, including RVs and trailers up to 50 feet. Its slightly removed location from the immediate bustle of Moab contributes to its quiet and relaxing atmosphere, yet it remains within convenient driving distance to the town for supplies or other services.

North Klondike Campground provides a focused set of services that cater to the essential needs of campers, prioritizing a more natural and self-sufficient experience:

• Campsites: The campground offers 27 campsites, including 25 individual sites and 2 group sites. Each individual campsite has a gravel parking pad for up to two vehicles (a vehicle pulling a trailer counts as two), a picnic table, and a fire ring. Group sites are larger, accommodating up to six vehicles, and include additional picnic tables and a BBQ grill. There are no tent-specific sites; all can accommodate tents as well as vehicles.

• Restrooms: The campground features clean and well-maintained vault toilets. Reviewers consistently praise the cleanliness of these facilities, which is a significant plus for a rustic campground.

• Trash Collection: Trash receptacles are available, allowing campers to dispose of their waste responsibly on-site. This is a valuable service in a high-traffic recreation area.

• Payment Options: The cost is $20 per night for individual sites (half price with a Senior National Parks Pass or Access Pass). Payment can be made in cash or via a machine (likely a QR code system through the Recreation.gov mobile app), offering flexibility.

• Camp Hosts: The presence of camp hosts is common, who assist visitors with campsite acquisition, trip planning, and campground etiquette education. They contribute to the well-maintained nature of the sites.

• Mobile Reception: A notable and often appreciated service is the availability of 5G mobile reception at some campsites (specifically mentioned for sites 1 and 2), allowing campers to stay connected if desired, even in this relatively remote setting.

• No Water: It is crucial to note that North Klondike Campground does NOT provide potable drinking water. Campers must bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

• No Hookups: There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups available for RVs or trailers. Campers should be prepared for a primitive camping experience in terms of utilities.

• No Showers: Like many BLM campgrounds, showers are not available on-site.

North Klondike Campground boasts several distinctive features and highlights that make it a premier choice for outdoor enthusiasts in Utah:

• Direct Access to Mountain Biking Trails: This is a paradise for mountain bikers. The campground is situated directly next to the North Klondike trail system, offering over 50 miles of singletrack mountain bike trails, ranging from flowy sections to technical challenges. Campers can literally pedal from their campsite onto the trails, eliminating the need for driving.

• Quiet and Relaxing Atmosphere: Despite its popularity and proximity to trails, reviewers consistently highlight the quiet and relaxing ambiance of the campground, making it an ideal retreat after a day of adventure.

• Spectacular Views: The high-desert setting provides stunning panoramic views of Copper Ridge, the surrounding bluffs, and the distant La Sal Mountains, offering incredible photographic opportunities and a beautiful backdrop for your stay.

• Well-Laid Out Campsites: The campsites are described as well-laid out, providing enough space and separation between sites for a good sense of privacy.

• Proximity to Dinosaur Tracks: The Copper Ridge Dinosaur Tracks and Dinosaur Stomping Grounds trailheads are located within 1 mile of the campground, offering a unique and educational side adventure for all ages.

• Easy Access to Other Moab Attractions: While focused on the Klondike Bluffs area, the campground is within easy reach of world-renowned destinations like Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, as well as hundreds of miles of 4x4, ATV, and motorcycle trails.

• Generator Hours: For RV users, generators are permitted between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm, allowing for some flexibility while maintaining quiet hours for other campers.

North Klondike Campground is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). For the most accurate and up-to-date information, including current conditions, fire restrictions, and any changes in fees or operations, it's best to contact the managing office:

Bureau of Land Management Moab Field Office

Address: 82 East Dogwood Avenue, Moab, UT 84532

Phone: (435) 259-2100

For information on individual sites, which are generally first-come, first-served, or for reserving the group sites, you can also check Recreation.gov or use their mobile app for on-site payment.

For Utah locals, North Klondike Campground offers a compelling blend of accessibility, unique recreational opportunities, and a tranquil desert camping experience, making it an ideal choice for a weekend escape or an extended adventure. Its location just north of Moab, a relatively short drive for many Utah residents, provides immediate access to one of the state's most revered outdoor playgrounds without the need for extensive travel.

The primary draw for many local adventurers will undoubtedly be the direct access to the North Klondike mountain bike trail system. This eliminates the hassle of shuttling or driving to trailheads, allowing for more time on the saddle and a truly immersive riding experience right from your campsite. But even for non-bikers, the area offers excellent hiking, stunning high-desert vistas, and the unique historical intrigue of nearby dinosaur tracks, providing diverse activities for all interests.

The commitment to maintaining spotless vault toilets and the presence of trash collection are significant comforts in a primitive setting, demonstrating a dedication to a quality experience. While there's no water on-site, this encourages self-sufficiency, a trait often embraced by seasoned Utah outdoors enthusiasts. The peaceful and quiet atmosphere, even with fellow campers around, ensures a truly relaxing retreat from daily life. For those seeking an authentic Utah desert camping experience that combines world-class trails with essential amenities and a serene environment, North Klondike Campground stands out as a top-tier destination for locals.

North Klondike Campground

Utah, USA