Up the Creek Campground

Hello, fellow Utahans! When we think of Moab, our minds often jump to the majestic red rock landscapes, thrilling outdoor adventures, and the incredible national parks that define this iconic region. But for those of us who live here, finding the perfect basecamp – a place that offers both convenience and comfort after a day of exploring – is key. That’s where Up the Creek Campground comes into play. Tucked away just a couple of blocks from Main Street in downtown Moab, Up the Creek offers a unique and highly practical camping experience designed specifically for tent campers, making it an ideal choice for locals looking to make the most of their Moab adventures.

Up the Creek Campground isn't your typical sprawling, remote wilderness campsite. Instead, it’s an urban oasis, a cozy and meticulously maintained space that perfectly blends the feeling of camping with the convenience of city access. This article is written for you, our local community, to provide an engaging and informative look at what makes Up the Creek Campground such a recommended spot. We'll explore its standout features, from the surprisingly quiet atmosphere amidst a bustling town to the immaculate facilities that make a real difference after a dusty day on the trails.

Whether you're planning a quick overnight stop on your way to Arches or Canyonlands, or looking for a central hub for a multi-day climbing or biking trip, Up the Creek Campground offers a distinct advantage. Its focus on tent-only, walk-in sites creates a different vibe, one that many campers find incredibly peaceful and conducive to relaxation. Let’s dive into the details of this interesting and highly functional campground that’s right in the heart of our beloved Moab.

Location and Accessibility

Up the Creek Campground boasts an exceptional location at 210 E 300 S, Moab, UT 84532, USA. This address places it just two blocks off Moab's bustling Main Street (Highway 191), making it incredibly accessible for locals driving in from anywhere in Utah. The convenience of its downtown Moab location cannot be overstated. After a day of exploring the national parks or hitting the trails, you are literally within walking distance of Moab's wide array of restaurants, shops, gear rentals, and grocery stores. This means no long drives back to town for supplies or a well-deserved meal, allowing you to maximize your adventure time.

While the campground is centrally located, it is nestled within a grove of large shade trees next to a perennial stream, which offers a surprising sense of seclusion and a pleasant ambiance, despite being in an "urban campground" setting. The property is designed as a walk-in only campground for campers (no cars allowed in the camp area itself, and no RVs, trailers, or vehicles for sleeping). This contributes to the quiet atmosphere and enhances safety within the camping area. Guests park their vehicles in a dedicated parking lot, which is mostly shaded, and then use provided hand carts to transport their gear to their tent sites. The distance to the campsites is short, at most 50 yards, making it an easy and quick process for most.

Its strategic location also means quick access to Moab's world-famous attractions. Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park are just a short drive away, as is the renowned Slickrock Bike Trail and numerous other hiking and off-roading opportunities. This central hub makes Up the Creek Campground an incredibly practical and desirable base for any local Utahn looking to experience the best of Moab’s outdoor recreation without the added commute. Despite being in town, the sound of the creek and the shade trees offer a welcome respite from the desert heat and the city's hum, creating a unique urban oasis.

Services Offered

• Tent-Only, Walk-In Sites: Up the Creek is exclusively a tent-only campground. Campers park their vehicles in a designated parking lot and walk their gear to their sites, often with the aid of provided hand carts. No RVs, trailers, or sleeping in vehicles is allowed.
• Spotless Bathrooms: The campground is highly praised for its exceptionally clean and well-maintained bathroom facilities.
• Hot Showers: Available for guest use, providing a refreshing amenity after a day of outdoor activities (bathhouse typically closed for cleaning from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM daily).
• Outdoor Dishwashing Station: A dedicated sink area with soap and sponges provided for washing dishes, promoting cleanliness and convenience.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite comes with a chained-down picnic table for dining and gear organization.
• Communal Propane BBQ Grills: Several communal propane grills are available for cooking, as individual campfires or propane fire rings are not permitted. Camp stoves are allowed.
• Clean Drinking Water: Accessible on-site, ensuring campers have a reliable source of potable water.
• Ice for Sale: Conveniently available for purchase at the campground.
• Hand Carts: Provided for easy transport of gear from the parking lot to the campsites.
• Plenty of Parking: Mostly shaded parking is available for guests' vehicles.
• Trash Cans and Recycling Bins: Numerous receptacles are strategically placed throughout the campground for responsible waste disposal.
• Games: Some communal games like horseshoes and corn hole are available for guest enjoyment.
• Self Check-in: The campground operates on a self-check-in system, with no on-site office. Staff are present in the camp multiple times a day for cleaning and checking on things, and are available by phone or email for assistance.
• No Dogs Allowed: It's important to note that pets are not permitted at Up the Creek Campground.

Features / Highlights

• Prime Downtown Moab Location: This is arguably the top highlight. Being just two blocks from Main Street means immediate access to Moab's vibrant selection of restaurants, shops, gear outfitters, and amenities. It significantly cuts down on travel time, allowing more time for adventure and relaxation.
• Exceptional Cleanliness: Reviewers consistently rave about the spotless bathrooms and hot showers. This commitment to cleanliness is a major comfort and convenience, especially after dusty days exploring the Moab landscape.
• Abundant Shade: A critical feature in the often-blazing Moab sun. The campground is nestled within a grove of large shade trees, providing much-needed relief and a cooler, more comfortable camping environment. This natural cooling effect is a huge advantage.
• Quiet & Peaceful Atmosphere (for an urban camp): Despite its central location and "hostel vibes" due to the proximity of sites, many visitors find the campground surprisingly quiet. The walk-in, tent-only policy contributes to this, as there are no noisy RVs or vehicle movements within the camping area. While city noises like school bells and garbage trucks are part of the urban experience, the overall ambiance remains peaceful.
• Walk-In Tent Camping Experience: This unique setup ensures a dedicated tent camping environment. It eliminates vehicle noise and traffic within the main camping area, creating a more traditional and intimate camping feel. The provided hand carts make gear transport manageable.
• Staff Attention and Care: Although there's no on-site office, the staff are regularly in the camp for cleaning and maintenance. Their responsiveness via phone or email, as noted by visitors, ensures that needs are addressed promptly, contributing to a well-managed and safe environment.
• Safety and Good Vibes: Many solo travelers report feeling very safe at Up the Creek. The community of campers often fosters a positive and respectful atmosphere, adding to the overall good vibes of the place.
• Next to a Perennial Stream: The presence of a cool perennial stream running next to the campground adds to the natural appeal and provides a soothing ambiance, especially during hot summer nights.

Contact Information

Address: 210 E 300 S, Moab, UT 84532, USA

Phone: (435) 248-2001

Mobile Phone: +1 435-248-2001

Email: moabupthecreek@gmail.com

For reservations and the most up-to-date information, including policies, availability, and rates, it is highly recommended to visit their official website (often found by searching "Up the Creek Campground Moab") or to contact them directly via phone or email. Given their self-check-in system and emphasis on communication via phone/email, these methods are the most effective for planning your stay.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For us, the residents of Utah, Up the Creek Campground in Moab is more than just a place to sleep; it’s a uniquely practical and exceptionally comfortable basecamp that perfectly complements the adventurous spirit of our state. Its suitability for locals stems from its ingenious design and location, catering directly to the needs and preferences of those who live and play in Utah.

Firstly, the unparalleled downtown Moab location is a massive draw. We understand the value of minimizing travel time, especially after a long day of hiking, biking, or off-roading in the relentless Utah sun. Being just two blocks from Main Street means instant access to all the conveniences – hot showers, delicious food, gear shops, and grocery runs – without the added commute. This urban proximity allows us to maximize our time exploring the red rocks and less time driving, making it an ideal choice for quick trips or extended stays where convenience is paramount.

Secondly, the focus on a tent-only, walk-in camping experience cultivates a distinct and often preferred atmosphere. For many Utahans, true camping means pitching a tent and immersing oneself in the sounds of nature, free from the hum of RV generators or vehicle traffic. Up the Creek delivers on this, creating a more peaceful and traditional camping environment, even within a city setting. The provided hand carts demonstrate a thoughtful understanding of tent campers' needs, making the walk-in process surprisingly hassle-free.

Thirdly, the consistent praise for its spotless bathrooms and hot showers cannot be overstated. After a day spent covered in red dust or sweating on the trails, the ability to enjoy a truly clean and hot shower is a luxury that makes all the difference. This commitment to hygiene and comfort elevates the camping experience, ensuring we feel refreshed and ready for the next day's adventures.

Finally, the abundant shade from mature trees, a rarity in many Moab campgrounds, provides a crucial respite from the intense desert sun. This thoughtful natural amenity significantly enhances comfort during warmer months, making the campground a true oasis. Combined with the welcoming "good vibes" from staff and fellow campers, Up the Creek Campground isn't just a place to stay; it's a smart, comfortable, and highly functional choice for any local Utahn looking to experience the heart of Moab’s incredible outdoor offerings without compromise.

Up the Creek Campground

210 E 300 S, Moab, UT 84532, USA