Canyonlands National Park Needles District Group Campsites
Closed
— Closed for the season. Group campsites operate March 15 through November 15 and are available for reservation up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov.
About
The Needles District group campsites are located in the southern portion of Canyonlands National Park, named for the colorful spires of Cedar Mesa Sandstone that define this remote area. Three group sites—Dutch Oven, Split Top, and Wooden Shoe—accommodate groups in a high desert environment characterized by slick rock, sand, Utah Juniper, and Pinyon Pine forests. Sites have limited services and are best suited to tents and small, self-contained campers and RVs.
The Needles District's extensive trail system provides opportunities for day hikes and overnight backpacking trips, with foot trails and four-wheel-drive roads leading to Confluence Overlook, Druid Arch, the Joint Trail, and Chesler Park. The area sits at approximately 4,900 feet elevation in an arid environment with hot summers and cold winters. Spring brings flowering prickly pear cacti, yucca, and desert wildflowers that add vivid color to the red rock landscape.
The campground is located 1.5 hours from Moab and 1.25 hours from Monticello via Utah Highway 211, which is the only paved road into the district. There are no lights on park roads or at campsites, and it's highly recommended to arrive before dark if unfamiliar with the area. No cell coverage is available in this remote location.
Directions
From US Highway 191, drive 40 miles south of Moab or 14 miles north of Monticello, then take Utah Highway 211 west for approximately 35 miles. Highway 211 ends in the Needles District and is the only paved road in and out. Split Top: From the entrance station, follow the main park road 1 mile, turn left toward Salt Creek/Cave Springs, continue 0.7 miles, turn left on dirt access road, follow 0.8 miles to site. Wooden Shoe: From entrance station, follow main road 1.8 miles, turn left, site is 0.2 miles on the left. Dutch Oven: Follow signs to the campground, turn left into Loop A, site is halfway down on the right. Arrive before dark as there are no lights on park roads or campsites.
Nearby Campgrounds
