Oak Grove Campground

Howdy, fellow Utahns! When the spirit of adventure calls you to the iconic red rock landscapes of Moab, finding a peaceful and picturesque spot to call home for a few nights is essential. Look no further than Oak Grove Campground, a charming and serene riverside gem that offers an intimate connection with the legendary Colorado River. This isn't just a place to pitch your tent; it's a tranquil oasis designed for those who appreciate quiet natural beauty and convenient access to Moab's world-renowned outdoor playground.

For us who call Utah home, the diverse and breathtaking scenery, from the majestic mountains to the stunning red rock deserts, is a constant source of pride and adventure. Moab, in particular, holds a special place in the hearts of outdoor enthusiasts, offering unparalleled opportunities for hiking, biking, climbing, and exploring. Oak Grove Campground, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), provides a unique camping experience that sets it apart from some of the larger, more bustling sites. Its smaller size and "first-come, first-served" availability contribute to a more intimate and less crowded atmosphere, making it a perfect fit for tent campers seeking genuine tranquility. We understand that finding a peaceful retreat amidst popular destinations can be a challenge, and Oak Grove Campground delivers precisely that, offering a refreshing and authentic outdoor escape for Utah locals.

Oak Grove Campground is conveniently located on Highway 313 (UT-128), near Moab, UT. Its address is associated with the Bureau of Land Management Moab Field Office, UT-128, Moab, UT 84532, USA. This places it directly alongside the majestic Colorado River, offering campers immediate access to the soothing sounds and scenic views of the water. For those driving from Salt Lake City, Provo, or other parts of Utah, the journey to Moab is a well-traveled and picturesque one. Once in the Moab area, UT-128 (also known as the Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway) is a well-maintained road, making access to the campground straightforward.

Its strategic location along the river means campers benefit from direct river access, perfect for those interested in fly fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the riverside ambiance. A significant advantage of Oak Grove Campground is its positioning that allows for earlier afternoon shade from the cliffs across the river, a welcome relief during the warmer months, especially compared to some other nearby campgrounds. While it's slightly outside the immediate bustling core of Moab, it’s close enough to provide easy access to the town's amenities, including grocery stores, restaurants, gear rentals, and visitor services. This balance of peaceful seclusion and convenient access to town makes Oak Grove an ideal base camp for exploring Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, as well as the numerous trails and natural wonders surrounding Moab.

Oak Grove Campground provides essential amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable primitive camping experience, focusing on cleanliness and functionality within its natural setting:

• Campsites: There are 7 individual campsites available, each providing a designated space for setting up camp.
• Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a sturdy fire ring, perfect for campfires and cooking (always check for current fire restrictions before lighting a fire).
• Picnic Tables: Every site includes a picnic table, offering a convenient surface for dining, meal preparation, or simply relaxing.
• Vault Bathrooms: The campground features vault toilets, which are consistently praised by visitors for being very clean and well-maintained. These are strategically located for easy access from the campsites.
• Fee Station: A fee station is conveniently located near the campsites for self-registration and payment of camping fees.
• No Trailers: This campground is specifically designed for tent campers and is too small to accommodate trailers, which contributes to its quieter, more intimate atmosphere.
• Water Access: While not explicitly stated as potable water at each site, the presence along the Colorado River provides opportunities for water-based activities. Campers should always bring sufficient drinking water or have a reliable filtration system for river water.

Oak Grove Campground boasts several key features and highlights that make it a highly desirable and unique camping destination in the Moab area:

• Riverside Location: Its direct proximity to the Colorado River is a major highlight, offering stunning river views, the soothing sound of flowing water, and opportunities for fishing or simply enjoying the tranquil riverbank.
• Quiet and Intimate Atmosphere: Due to its small size (only 7 sites) and inability to accommodate trailers, Oak Grove is significantly quieter and more private than many larger campgrounds in the Moab area, making it ideal for those seeking peace and solitude.
• First-Come, First-Served: This aspect can be a highlight for spontaneous adventurers, providing an opportunity to secure a beautiful campsite without prior reservations, especially for those traveling during less busy times or arriving early.
• Exceptional Cleanliness of Facilities: The consistently clean vault bathrooms are a standout feature, greatly enhancing the comfort level of campers in a primitive setting.
• Afternoon Shade: A unique advantage, particularly during the warmer months, is the early afternoon shade provided by the cliffs across the river. This offers a welcome respite from the intense desert sun, a considerable benefit over other exposed campgrounds.
• Affordable Rates: The fee of $20 per night, with a reduced rate of $10 for America the Beautiful Pass holders, makes it a very affordable option for experiencing the beauty of the Moab area.
• Stunning Views: Campers are treated to magnificent views of the surrounding red rock cliffs and the Colorado River, providing an inspiring backdrop for their stay.

For inquiries and information about Oak Grove Campground, which is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Moab Field Office, you can use the following contact details:

Address: Bureau of Land Management Moab Field Office, UT-128, Moab, UT 84532, USA

Phone: (435) 259-2100

Mobile Phone: +1 435-259-2100

As this is a first-come, first-served campground, it is not possible to make reservations. Visitors are advised to arrive early, especially during peak seasons and weekends, to secure a site. For current conditions, availability, and fire restrictions, contacting the BLM Moab Field Office directly is recommended.

For us Utahns, Oak Grove Campground is a superb choice for experiencing the iconic beauty of Moab without the overwhelming crowds often found elsewhere. Its prime location directly on the Colorado River offers not only stunning views but also a unique opportunity for tranquil riverside enjoyment. The campground's small, first-come, first-served nature ensures a quieter and more intimate setting, making it perfect for tent campers and those seeking genuine peace amidst the desert landscape.

The consistent cleanliness of its vault toilets, coupled with the welcome afternoon shade provided by the natural landscape, significantly enhances the comfort of this rustic experience. It’s an affordable and accessible option for any Utahn looking to immerse themselves in the world-class outdoor recreation that Moab offers, from hiking and biking to simply relaxing by the river. Oak Grove Campground truly allows locals to connect with the unique spirit of the Utah desert, providing a serene basecamp for unforgettable adventures. Pack your gear, head south, and discover your next favorite quiet spot by the Colorado River.

Oak Grove Campground

Bureau of Land Management Moab Field Office, UT-128, Moab, UT 84532, USA