Needles Campground

Camp at the Needles Campground in Canyonlands National Park

The campsites in the Needles Campground are nestled against a sandstone butte. Each site has its own character: some are shady in the morning, some are shady in the afternoon. Some of them have expansive views, others are tucked into small coves surrounded by rock. Yet others have alcoves with rock overhangs, and one has a natural tunnel that goes through a sandstone peninsula.

This is a very enjoyable campground, but it fills up early, particularly in the spring and fall. Reservations are accepted during this time. There are three group sites (minimum of 11 people) that can be reserved as well. The only other campground option is a small commercial operation located north of the visitor center just outside the park boundary.

Needles Campground provides an excellent basecamp for hiking many of the trails in the Needles District. The trailhead for Big Springs, Lost canyons loop, and Chesler Park are located on the southeastern edge of the campground. Several other trailheads are only a short drive. Interpretive programs are offered at a small outdoor amphitheater most evenings between March and October.

There are two facilities with flush toilets, bathroom sinks, and outdoor dishwashing sinks, but be aware that it is a fairly long walk to them from some of the sites. Pit toilets are located near the more remote sites.

Directions

From Moab: Drive south on US Highway 191 to the junction with UT Highway 211, turn right and drive 35 miles to the park visitor center. From Monticello: Drive north 14 miles on US Highway 191 to the junction with Utah Highway 211, turn left and drive 35 miles to the visitor center.

After checking in at the visitor center, drive about 2.8 miles to the junction with the campground road, turn right, and go about a third of a mile to another junction. Either road takes you to campground sites. Backcountry camping requires a permit. Find out how to navigate the permit system