Upper Onion Creek Campground

For Utah residents seeking an authentic and breathtaking outdoor experience, Upper Onion Creek Campground near Moab offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourselves in the iconic red rock landscapes that define our state. This beautiful Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campground is a testament to the raw, rugged beauty of Utah's desert, providing campers with stunning panoramic views, a sense of tranquil seclusion, and direct access to some of the region's most famous natural attractions. If you're longing to escape the everyday and reconnect with nature in a truly spectacular setting, Upper Onion Creek Campground is an ideal destination.

Unlike some of the more developed campgrounds, Upper Onion Creek embraces a more primitive, yet well-maintained, camping style. It's perfect for those who appreciate the quietude of a lightly-used site and are prepared for a true outdoor adventure. Imagine waking up to the sun painting the towering rock formations in vibrant hues of orange and red, with the crisp desert air invigorating your senses. This campground offers a genuine opportunity to experience the magic of Moab, from stargazing under an unpolluted sky to exploring ancient landscapes right from your campsite. It's a place where memories are made, stories are shared around a campfire, and the grandeur of Utah's wilderness truly comes alive.

Upper Onion Creek Campground is located near Moab, UT 84532, USA, specifically within the scenic Castle Valley. Its address, while simply "Moab, UT 84532," points to a truly spectacular and somewhat remote location that is part of its charm. The campground is situated off the incredibly scenic Highway 128, often referred to as the "River Road," which winds alongside the Colorado River through a dramatic canyon. While the nearest town, Moab, is approximately 30-40 minutes away, this distance contributes to the campground's serene and secluded atmosphere, making it a perfect escape from more crowded areas.

Accessibility to Upper Onion Creek Campground is generally good, with a graded gravel road leading into the site. This road, Onion Creek Road, is popular for four-wheel-drive enthusiasts, but regular passenger vehicles can typically navigate it without issue, though caution is advised, especially after heavy rains which can lead to muddy conditions or flash floods in the numerous wash crossings. The campground's strategic location makes it an excellent base for exploring the iconic Fisher Towers area, which is not far away. It also offers convenient access to the Colorado River, situated about 2.5 miles from the campground. This proximity allows for various water-based activities or simply enjoying the riverside environment. For hikers, the famous Fisher Towers trail is easily accessible, providing opportunities to explore the unique geological formations up close. While some reviewers note the ground can be hard for tent stakes, the overall accessibility for a BLM campground is well-regarded, making it a viable option for a wide range of campers, including those with RVs, as many sites can accommodate larger vehicles.

Services Offered:

• Vaulted Toilets: The campground provides well-maintained vaulted toilets, which are frequently praised for being clean, non-stinky, and regularly stocked with toilet paper by BLM staff.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for comfortable outdoor dining and gathering.
• Fire Rings with Grates: Campers can enjoy campfires (when conditions allow) with designated fire rings that include grates for cooking.
• Spacious Campsites: Sites are generally large and well-spaced, offering a good degree of privacy and room for various setups.
• Group Sites: Upper Onion Creek also offers reservable group campsites (A and B) that are ideal for larger gatherings, with Group Site A specifically designed for guests with horses, featuring a horse corral and nearby equestrian trails.
• Direct Access to Onion Creek Road: Provides immediate access to a popular four-wheel-drive road for off-road adventures, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Features / Highlights:

• Stunning Views: Offers spectacular views of the Colorado River canyon, towering red rock cliffs, mesas, spires, and the distant La Sal Mountains, creating a truly picturesque setting.
• Secluded and Quiet Atmosphere: Despite its popularity, the campground maintains a lightly-used feel, providing a peaceful escape from the crowds often found in other Moab areas.
• Proximity to Fisher Towers: Excellent access to the renowned Fisher Towers area for hiking, rock climbing, and photography.
• Close to the Colorado River: Allows for easy access to the river for enjoyment, though the creek itself is noted as saline and not a water source.
• Excellent Stargazing: Its remote location away from city lights makes it an ideal spot for observing the night sky.
• Cleanliness: The vaulted toilets are consistently highlighted by visitors for their cleanliness and maintenance.
• Equestrian-Friendly: Group Site A caters specifically to horse camping with corrals and direct access to equestrian trails.
• Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the generous size and spacing of individual sites.
• Year-Round Access: The campground is open year-round, allowing for visits during various seasons, each offering a different desert experience.

Contact Information:

Address: Moab, UT 84532, USA

Phone: (435) 259-2100

Mobile Phone: +1 435-259-2100

For Utah locals, Upper Onion Creek Campground represents an invaluable opportunity to experience the iconic Moab landscape without venturing too far from home. Its suitability for residents stems from several key factors. Firstly, while it offers a genuine sense of remote wilderness, it remains a manageable drive from many parts of Utah, making it a perfect weekend getaway or a short-trip destination. You don't need to plan an epic, multi-state journey to immerse yourself in the world-famous red rock country; it's right here, accessible and ready for your visit.

Secondly, the campground’s emphasis on beautiful views, quiet seclusion, and essential amenities caters perfectly to those who appreciate a less crowded, more authentic camping experience. Utahns often seek out natural beauty and outdoor adventure, and Upper Onion Creek delivers this in spades. The lack of a water source and the hard ground for staking tents, while noted by some, are minor considerations for seasoned campers who are prepared for self-sufficiency – a common characteristic among Utah’s outdoor enthusiasts. The trade-off is the unparalleled tranquility and breathtaking scenery that truly defines the desert experience.

Furthermore, its proximity to renowned outdoor attractions like Fisher Towers and the Colorado River means that a trip to Upper Onion Creek Campground is not just about camping; it's about a full spectrum of outdoor activities. Whether you're into hiking, mountain biking, off-roading on Onion Creek Road, or simply soaking in the views, there's something for every type of adventurer. For those with horses, the dedicated equestrian group site is a unique and highly convenient feature. By arriving before noon, as advised by previous visitors, locals can secure a coveted spot and enjoy this beautiful corner of their home state, making Upper Onion Creek Campground a true local treasure for escaping, exploring, and reconnecting with the unparalleled natural wonders of Utah.

Upper Onion Creek Campground

Moab, UT 84532, USA