Onion Creek Hide Out Campground

For us Utah locals, the call of the red rock country is irresistible. When the vast, sculpted landscapes and adventurous trails beckon, finding a campground that offers both breathtaking views and direct access to exploration is key. Onion Creek Hide Out Campground, located within the spectacular red rock canyon lands of Utah, stands out as a prime destination. This isn't just any campground; it's a launchpad for adventure, a haven for tranquility, and a place where the stunning geology of our state truly comes alive. This guide is crafted specifically for us, the residents of Utah, to help you uncover the unique charm and practical advantages of making Onion Creek Hide Out your next outdoor escape.

Onion Creek Hide Out Campground, officially known as "Upper Onion Creek Campground" by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), offers a rustic yet incredibly scenic camping experience in the heart of Utah's iconic red rock country. Located off State Route 128, a designated scenic byway, this campground is celebrated for its panoramic views of towering cliffs, mesas, spires, and the distant La Sal Mountains. It provides a more primitive, self-sufficient camping environment compared to highly developed parks, appealing to those who prefer to immerse themselves fully in nature. The campground is well-situated for accessing a myriad of outdoor activities, from four-wheel driving to hiking, and even equestrian adventures. It’s a place where the quiet of the desert night is only broken by the occasional whisper of the wind, and the stars put on an unparalleled show. With its blend of natural beauty and direct access to adventure, Onion Creek Hide Out is a true Utah treasure for campers looking to get away from it all while staying connected to the wild.

Onion Creek Hide Out Campground is located in a stunning area of Utah, specifically addressed as Utah 84532, USA. While the general zip code covers a broader region, the campground is famously situated off State Route 128, approximately 20-21 miles from the junction of Highway 191 near Moab. This makes it a convenient 40-minute drive from the bustling town of Moab, which offers all necessary supplies, dining, and recreational outfitter services. The access to Onion Creek Hide Out is via Onion Creek Road (BLM 100), which is known as a scenic four-wheel drive road. While the main gravel access road to the campground itself is generally graded and accessible for RVs and tow trailers, some sources suggest that reaching the deeper "Hideout Canyon Camping Area" requires 4WD and high-clearance vehicles, indicating varying levels of road conditions within the larger Onion Creek area. It’s advisable to check current road conditions, especially after rains, as flash floods can occur in the washes. Regardless, the journey to the campground along the winding Colorado River on Highway 128 is an experience in itself, offering continuous breathtaking views of the canyon country.

Onion Creek Hide Out Campground, as a BLM-managed site, offers essential services for a comfortable, though primitive, camping experience:

• Individual Campsites: The campground features 14 individual campsites. These are spacious and designed to accommodate up to 10 people and two vehicles (including RVs/trailers) per site. Each site typically includes a picnic table, a fire ring with a grate, and often ample space for tents or RV setup.
• Group Sites: Two reservable group sites (A and B) are also available, ideal for larger gatherings. Group Site A is notably designed for equestrian campers and includes a horse corral.
• Toilets: Vault toilets are provided within the campground, offering a basic but essential amenity. Reviews often highlight these facilities as being well-maintained and clean, a welcome feature for a primitive site.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial for campers to note that there is no potable (drinking) water available at the campground. Visitors must "pack in" all the water they will need for their stay, including for drinking, cooking, and washing.
• No Utility Hookups or Dump Stations: The campground does not offer electric, water, or sewer hookups. There are also no dump stations on-site, meaning RVers and those with trailers must be self-sufficient and plan for waste disposal elsewhere, typically in Moab.
• Direct Trail Access: The campground offers direct access to the Onion Creek four-wheel drive road, which is popular for both motorized and horse travel. This road features numerous wash crossings.

Onion Creek Hide Out Campground is celebrated for its unique features and highlights, making it a standout destination in Utah:

• Spectacular Red Rock Views: The primary highlight is the unparalleled panoramic scenery. Campers are surrounded by magnificent red rock formations, including views of Fisher Towers and Castle Valley, with the dramatic backdrop of the La Sal Mountains. This makes for incredible sunrises, sunsets, and stargazing.
• Access to Adventure Trails: The campground provides direct access to the Onion Creek four-wheel drive road, a popular route for off-highway vehicles (OHVs), ATVs, and equestrian users. This road features 27 wash crossings, offering an adventurous drive. Nearby, countless hiking, mountain biking, and climbing opportunities abound, including the famous Fisher Towers Trail.
• Colorado River Proximity: Located near the Colorado River corridor, the campground offers scenic views of the river and provides access to boat launches at nearby Lower Onion Creek and Hittle Bottom Campgrounds, ideal for rafting, kayaking, or simply enjoying the water.
• Equestrian Facilities: For horse enthusiasts, the dedicated group site with a horse corral and nearby equestrian trails is a significant advantage, providing a safe and convenient base for riding adventures.
• Peaceful & Spacious Sites: Campers frequently praise the quiet atmosphere and the generous spacing between individual campsites, offering a sense of privacy and seclusion even when the campground is relatively full.
• Dark Sky Viewing: Away from the light pollution of larger towns, the clear Utah skies provide exceptional opportunities for stargazing and night photography, with the Milky Way often visible.
• Year-Round Accessibility (Weather Dependent): While peak season is generally spring and fall, the campground is open year-round, allowing for winter visits if weather and road conditions permit, offering a different, quieter experience of the desert landscape.

Onion Creek Hide Out Campground is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), specifically through the Moab Field Office. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, including current conditions, regulations, and to make reservations for group sites (individual sites are first-come, first-served), locals should contact the BLM directly.

Address: Utah 84532, USA (General area. For precise directions, refer to BLM maps or GPS coordinates provided by the BLM, often around Highway 128, 20-21 miles from the junction of Hwy 191 near Moab.)

Phone: (435) 259-2100 (BLM Moab Field Office)

It is always highly recommended to call or check the official BLM website (blm.gov/visit/upper-onion-creek-campground or recreation.gov for group sites) before your visit, especially to confirm fire restrictions, road conditions (particularly the Onion Creek 4x4 road), and any other alerts that might impact your trip.

For us Utah locals, Onion Creek Hide Out Campground embodies the spirit of our state’s incredible outdoor heritage. It’s more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an immersive experience in the heart of the red rock desert, offering unparalleled views and direct access to the adventures we crave. The spacious, primitive campsites cater to those who appreciate self-sufficiency and the quiet beauty of nature, while the availability of vault toilets adds a touch of convenience. Its proximity to Moab means essential supplies are within reach, yet the campground itself feels wonderfully remote. Whether you’re a passionate four-wheeler, an avid hiker exploring the iconic Fisher Towers, or an equestrian looking for unique trails with your horse, Onion Creek Hide Out provides the perfect base. It’s an ideal spot for family outings, solo reflection, or group adventures, allowing us to connect deeply with Utah’s unique landscapes and create unforgettable memories right here in our own backyard.

Onion Creek Hide Out Campground

Utah 84532, USA