West water

For Utah locals, the call of our state's incredible red rock landscapes and mighty rivers is a powerful one. If you're an adventurer drawn to the roar of whitewater, the tranquility of a riverside camp, and direct access to unparalleled outdoor recreation, then Westwater Campground is a destination you need to know. Nestled in Grand County, alongside the majestic Colorado River, this Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campground serves as a vital hub for those exploring the renowned Westwater Canyon. It’s not about luxurious amenities, but about providing a practical, scenic, and well-managed basecamp for truly authentic Utah experiences, from exhilarating rafting trips to peaceful riverside stays.

Westwater Campground is intrinsically linked to the legendary Westwater Canyon, a section of the Colorado River famous for its challenging Class III-IV rapids, unique geology, and stunning black, gold, and red canyon walls. For many, this campground is the strategic "put-in" or "take-out" point for unforgettable river journeys through Westwater Canyon or the more mellow Ruby-Horsethief section upstream. This direct connection to world-class whitewater makes it a prime location for experienced rafters and kayakers. But even if you're not planning a multi-day river trip, the campground's setting offers a chance to experience the raw beauty of the Colorado River as it carves its way through eastern Utah, surrounded by the Westwater Wilderness Study Area.

The experience at Westwater Campground is distinctly primitive, a characteristic that often appeals to Utahns seeking a true escape from urban sprawl. Here, the focus is on the natural environment and outdoor activities rather than extensive creature comforts. This aligns perfectly with the spirit of adventure that many locals embody, preferring direct engagement with nature. The campsites are designed to be functional, offering essential features like picnic tables and fire rings, allowing campers to set up a comfortable yet authentic outdoor living space. The spectacular views of Navajo Sandstone walls and the sounds of the meandering Colorado River provide a constant reminder of the incredible landscape you’re immersed in.

Beyond the river, Westwater Campground also serves as a jumping-off point for land-based adventures. The surrounding area boasts motorized and non-motorized trails, including sections of the iconic Kokopelli's Trail, a premier mountain biking route stretching from Colorado to Moab. This versatility makes Westwater a compelling choice for a wide array of outdoor enthusiasts, whether you're bringing a raft, a mountain bike, or simply your hiking boots. The ability to switch seamlessly between river activities and trail explorations from a single basecamp significantly enhances the appeal of Westwater Campground for active Utah locals.

In conclusion, Westwater Campground offers a specialized and highly rewarding experience for Utah locals. It’s a place where the wild heart of the Colorado River pulses, providing direct access to world-class whitewater, scenic beauty, and diverse recreational opportunities. For those who prioritize raw nature, essential facilities, and a strategic location for adventure, Westwater Campground is an essential destination in your Utah outdoor repertoire. Its focus on river access and primitive camping makes it uniquely suited for the adventurous spirit of our state.

Westwater Campground is located in Grand County, UT 84540, USA, specifically adjacent to the Westwater Ranger Station. This strategic location places it along the Colorado River in eastern Utah, near the Utah-Colorado border. Access to the campground is typically via exit 227 from I-70, followed by a nine-mile drive south to the Ranger Station and put-in. There is also an alternate route via Exit 221 from I-70, but this route is not recommended during or shortly after inclement weather due to potentially impassable muddy conditions. These directions emphasize its relative remoteness while ensuring a clear path for those prepared for a short drive off the interstate.

The accessibility of Westwater Campground is primarily geared towards river runners and those participating in activities directly tied to the Colorado River. It serves as the official "put-in" for Westwater Canyon and the "take-out" for the Ruby-Horsethief section. While somewhat removed from major urban centers, its direct connection to I-70 makes it a manageable drive from both Grand Junction, Colorado (approximately 35 miles east), and Moab, Utah (approximately 70 miles southwest). This allows for resupply or extended exploration of these popular outdoor hubs if desired, before or after a stay at Westwater.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages Westwater Campground, ensuring its upkeep and adherence to wilderness principles. This means the access roads to the campground are generally maintained, though as with any remote location, conditions can vary, especially with weather. The presence of the Westwater Ranger Station nearby provides a point of contact for information, permits, and assistance, which is a valuable resource for visitors navigating this wild terrain. This combination of straightforward highway access and BLM management helps facilitate a relatively smooth journey to this primitive yet well-located outdoor destination.

Furthermore, the campground's setting within the broader Westwater Canyon Recreation Site means that while you're at your campsite, you're already deeply embedded in the recreational landscape. This eliminates the need for extensive travel from your camp to your chosen activity, whether it's launching a raft, starting a hike, or accessing nearby mountain bike trails like Kokopelli's Trail. The physical accessibility of the campground itself, combined with its direct link to regional adventure hotspots, makes it an efficient and desirable choice for Utah locals eager to maximize their time in the great outdoors.

Westwater Campground, being a primitive BLM site, offers essential services focused on facilitating an authentic outdoor experience:

• Designated campsites: Individual sites are available, with parking for two vehicles (a vehicle pulling a trailer counts as two).
• Picnic tables: Each campsite typically includes a picnic table for meal preparation and dining.
• Fire rings: Campers can enjoy campfires, with fire rings provided at each site.
• Vault toilets: Primitive restrooms (vault toilets) are located in close proximity to campsites for sanitation.
• Trash receptacles: Provided for responsible waste disposal, emphasizing Leave No Trace principles.
• Potable water: Drinking water may be available seasonally (March - November). Visitors should always confirm current water availability or bring their own, as temporary outages can occur.
• Cell service: Surprisingly, cell service is available for most providers at the Westwater Ranger Station, which is a significant convenience in this remote area.
• Ranger Station assistance: During business hours, the Westwater Ranger Station can provide assistance with campsite inquiries, trip planning, and campground etiquette.
• First-come, first-served and reservable sites: Sites 1-7 are first-come, first-served, while sites 8-11 are reservable online via Recreation.gov up to 6 months in advance.

Westwater Campground boasts several unique features and highlights that make it an exceptional destination for outdoor enthusiasts:

• Primary access point for Westwater Canyon rafting: It serves as the official put-in for Westwater Canyon, a world-renowned whitewater rafting stretch (Class III-IV rapids).
• Take-out for Ruby-Horsethief section: Also functions as the take-out for the more mellow Ruby-Horsethief section of the Colorado River (Class I-II).
• Stunning geology: Campers are surrounded by incredible views of Navajo Sandstone walls and unique black, gold, and red canyon formations.
• Wilderness Study Area: The 17-mile Westwater Canyon stretch is surrounded by the Westwater Wilderness Study Area, offering a true wilderness feel.
• Kokopelli's Trail access: The area north of the campground provides access to sections of Kokopelli's Trail, a premier 140-mile mountain bike trail.
• Day hiking opportunities: Glimpses of abandoned settler cabins and caves can be found along the river and nearby trails.
• Fishing: Opportunities for fishing in the Colorado River are available (valid Utah fishing license required).
• Diverse wildlife: The canyon supports bighorn sheep, mule deer, various bird species, including raptors.
• Primitive camping experience: Offers a rustic, back-to-basics camping environment for those who appreciate undeveloped settings.
• Strategic location for multi-day river trips: Ideal for staging overnight river trips through Westwater Canyon (permits required and assigned campsites along the river for river runners).

For reservations, current conditions, or more detailed information about Westwater Campground, please use the following contact details for the managing agency:

Address: Westwater Ranger Station (the campground is adjacent to it), Grand County, UT 84540, USA.

Mailing Address: 82 E. Dogwood Ave. Moab, UT 84532 (Bureau of Land Management Moab Field Office).

Phone: For general inquiries and campground information, you can typically contact the BLM Moab Field Office at (435) 259-2100. For Westwater Canyon river permits, specific phone numbers like (435) 259-7012 have been noted in past permit information for advance reservations. It is always best to check Recreation.gov or the official BLM Utah website for the most current contact information and reservation procedures.

Online Reservations: Campsites 8-11 at Westwater Campground can be reserved through Recreation.gov. First-come, first-served sites (1-7) require payment on-site (cash, check, or via Recreation.gov mobile app).

Westwater Campground is exceptionally suitable for Utah locals, particularly those who embrace our state's adventurous spirit and love for its unique, rugged landscapes. For us, this isn't just a campground; it's a direct gateway to some of the most iconic outdoor experiences Utah has to offer. The immediate access to the Colorado River's Westwater Canyon, renowned for its exhilarating whitewater rafting, makes it an unparalleled base for river enthusiasts. We understand that a truly authentic Utah experience often means embracing primitive camping, and Westwater delivers on that, providing essential facilities without over-developing the natural beauty.

The fact that it's managed by the BLM gives us confidence in its preservation and adherence to Leave No Trace principles, which are deeply ingrained in the local outdoor community. The presence of the Ranger Station and even cell service (a rare find in such remote beauty) provides a comforting balance of wilderness immersion and practical support. For Utahns who crave an escape from the city and a genuine connection with our state's geological wonders, Westwater Campground offers that opportunity without extensive travel to the more crowded national parks. It’s a perfect spot for staging multi-day river trips, embarking on intense mountain biking adventures on Kokopelli's Trail, or simply enjoying a peaceful riverside camp.

Ultimately, Westwater Campground provides an accessible yet wild experience that resonates deeply with the local ethos of outdoor recreation. It’s a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of eastern Utah and a reminder of the incredible natural playgrounds available right in our backyard. For anyone in Utah seeking an authentic river-centric camping adventure, or a strategic base for exploring the diverse landscapes of Grand County, Westwater Campground stands out as an ideal choice, promising unforgettable moments under our expansive desert skies.

West water

Grand County, UT 84540, USA