Canyonlands National Park Needles District Group Campsites

About

Located in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park at approximately 4,900 feet elevation, these group campsites provide a base for exploring one of Utah's most spectacular desert landscapes. The area is named for the colorful spires of Cedar Mesa Sandstone that dominate the region, with stands of Utah juniper and pinyon pine providing shade among the slickrock and sand. Three group sites are available: Dutch Oven accommodates 11-50 people and is located within Loop A of the main campground with flush toilets, potable water, fire rings, picnic tables, and a paved pull-through driveway. Wooden Shoe handles 11-25 campers and Split Top accommodates 11-15; both are isolated from the main campground and feature vault toilets, water spigots, and fire rings. The Needles District's extensive trail system provides day hikes and backpacking opportunities to Confluence Overlook, Druid Arch, the Joint Trail, and Chesler Park. Four-wheel-drive roads and mountain biking routes add to the recreation options. The area is 1.5 hours from Moab and 1.25 hours from Monticello via Highway 211.

Directions

From US Highway 191, drive 40 miles south of Moab or 14 miles north of Monticello, then take Utah Highway 211 west approximately 35 miles to the Needles entrance. Dutch Oven is in Loop A of the main campground. Wooden Shoe is 1.8 miles from the entrance station on the second left. Split Top is 1 mile from the entrance on the first left toward Salt Creek/Cave Springs, then left on the dirt access road.