Explore Moab: Your Complete Guide to Camping, Hiking, Eats & Shops
Wake up to the breathtaking vistas of Moab, where the stark red cliffs meet brilliant blue skies. Recently, I ventured into this striking wilderness, and every moment spent there was a revelation in itself. For anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature, Moab offers a camping experience unlike any other. In this guide, I'll share essential tips for camping in Moab, showcase some great trails, and share some spots in town that are worthy of checking-out.
Why Choose Moab for Your Camping Trip?
Moab is more than a destination; it's a portal to an ancient world. Here, you can traverse the same landscapes that have inspired adventurers for centuries. Its diverse landscapes offer everything from stark desert beauty to lush, forested mountains, making it a perfect destination for explorers of all kinds.
Essential Rules for Camping in Moab
Camping in Moab is subject to both general BLM rules and some specific regulations aimed at protecting the area’s fragile desert ecosystem and archaeological treasures.
Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Camp in Permitted Areas Only: There is no dispersed camping permitted within 20 miles of Moab. Many areas limited campers to 14 consecutive nights or less. Always check restrictions for your chosen camping area.
Stay Hydrated: Drink at least a gallon of water daily.
Waste Disposal: Use facilities or pack out your waste.
Respect the Trails: Stick to designated trails to protect the environment.
Avoid Bad Weather: Seek shelter during storms to avoid lightning.
Protect Historical Sites: Do not disturb or damage archaeological sites.
Best Times to Camp in Moab
Spring and fall are ideal, usually March to May and September to October, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural colors. Summer heat can be intense, and winters are chilly, offering a quiet, snowy escape.
Plan Your Adventure: To help you prepare for your Moab adventure, I’m offering a free Dispersed Camping Packing List. This checklist covers everything you need for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Best Dispersed Camping Spots in Moab
Moab offers a variety of dispersed camping options, each providing a unique way to experience this rugged landscape:
Klondike Bluffs: Stunning mountain views and close proximity to Arches National Park.
Yellow Circle Road: Offers cell service and space for any size RV, with designated sites marked by fire rings.
La Sal Loop Road/Manti-La Sal National Forest: Cooler temperatures and forested settings, ideal for escaping the desert heat.
Gemini Bridges: Secluded with minimal cell service, accessible by 4WD due to rough roads.
Willow Springs Trail: Popular and close to town, offering easy access to Arches National Park.
The Castleton Tower: A climbing hotspot with free camping, best visited on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Dalton Wells: Offers expansive views and a chance to see hot air balloons in the morning.
Check Out These Hikes in Moab
Enhance your visit with these must-try hikes, showcasing Moab's natural beauty:
Mill Creek Trail: An easy 7.5-mile hike featuring a waterfall, perfect for a refreshing swim.
Dead Horse Point Rim Trail: A 5-mile accessible trail offering spectacular views, especially at sunset.
Hidden Valley Trail: A 6-mile trail offering a unique perspective of Moab and the Spanish Valley.
Fisher Towers Trail: A moderate 4.7-mile hike amidst striking rock formations.
Corona Arch: A 3-mile trek to one of Moab's iconic arches, known for its breathtaking vistas.
Local Highlights: Food, Coffee, and Shops
After a day of adventure, Moab offers delightful local cuisine and unique shopping experiences:
Food/Coffee:
Moab Coffee Roasters: Organic coffee roasted daily, located on Main Street with a beautiful garden patio.
Nuclear Bean Coffee Co.: Located in the Moab Food Truck Park, offering espresso and quick bites.
The Garage Moab: Eclectic dining in a restored historic building on Center Street.
Moab Diner: A classic diner on Main Street, perfect for a hearty breakfast or a satisfying American meal.
Jailhouse Cafe: Offers a creative breakfast menu in a historic setting on Main Street.
Pasta Jays: Cozy Italian dining on Main Street, known for hearty pasta dishes.
Shops:
ar-tee-sian: Fashionable clothing and home goods with a desert vibe, located on Main Street.
Moab Made: Features local art and handmade goods, also on Main Street.
Desert Wild: Offers outdoor gear and stylish accessories, perfect for the modern adventurer.
Moab is a land of stark contrasts and profound beauty, offering endless opportunities for adventure and contemplation. Whether you're camping under the stars or exploring its rugged trails, Moab invites you to connect with the earth in its most primal form. I love seeing and sharing your experiences, so if you head out to Moab, don’t forget to tag me in your Instagram posts!
