Devils Garden Campground, nestled at approximately 5,200 feet elevation in Arches National Park, Utah, is the park’s only developed campground, offering 51 individual sites (including one accessibility site) and two group sites (Canyon Wren and Juniper Basin) for tents and RVs up to 40 feet. Open year-round, it requires reservations from March 1 to October 31 through Recreation.gov, with sites available first-come, first-served from November 1 to February 28. Located 18 miles from the park entrance at the end of the main park road, the campground is surrounded by dramatic sandstone fins, arches, and desert flora, providing direct access to the Devils Garden Trailhead and iconic arches like Landscape Arch. With flush toilets, potable water, and fire rings but no showers or hook-ups, it’s a rustic yet stunning base for exploring Arches. This review details the campground’s setting, amenities, accessibility, and overall experience, paired with a description of Arches National Park.
Description of Arches National Park
Arches National Park, spanning 76,679 acres in southeastern Utah near Moab, is renowned for its over 2,000 natural sandstone arches and geological formations, carved by erosion over millions of years. Situated at 4,000–5,600 feet elevation, the park showcases a surreal landscape of red rock fins, spires, and balanced rocks against the backdrop of the La Sal Mountains. Iconic features include Delicate Arch (a 3-mile round-trip hike), Landscape Arch (the world’s longest natural arch at 290 feet), and Balanced Rock, accessible via a 0.3-mile loop. The park’s 18-mile scenic drive connects key viewpoints like Park Avenue, The Windows, and Devils Garden, offering vistas of desert vistas and towering formations.
The park’s high desert climate brings hot summers (80–100°F, often exceeding 100°F in July–August) and cold winters (20–50°F), with nights dropping significantly. Summer monsoons and occasional snow add variety, while the International Dark Sky Park status ensures exceptional stargazing, with the Milky Way visible on clear nights. Wildlife includes mule deer, desert bighorn sheep, cougars, red foxes, and birds like pinyon jays. Vegetation features pinyon pines, junipers, and seasonal wildflowers (best in April–May). With 26 miles of trails, from easy walks to strenuous scrambles like the Fiery Furnace (permit required), plus activities like rock climbing, biking on paved roads, and ranger-led programs, Arches is a haven for hikers, photographers, and adventurers. Nearby Moab (5 miles) offers rafting on the Colorado River, mountain biking, and access to Canyonlands National Park.
Campground Details
Location and Accessibility
Devils Garden Campground is located 18 miles from the park’s entrance off US Highway 191, 5 miles north of Moab. From I-70, take Exit 182, travel south on US 191 for 26 miles to the park entrance, then follow the main park road to its end at Devils Garden. The drive offers stunning views but can be slow due to traffic and sightseeing drivers. “It’s a 30-minute drive from the entrance—plan for gawkers,” noted a camper (Tripadvisor, 2025). The campground is on the right before the Devils Garden Trailhead, with a paved road and spurs for most sites. Site 7 and site 4H are ADA-accessible, with paved areas around picnic tables and fire rings, and a paved path to the amphitheater and flush restrooms.
The campground has no cell service for most carriers, though T-Mobile may get 1–2 bars LTE near the amphitheater. “No signal at site 46, but we got a bar at the amphitheater,” reported a camper (Campendium, 2025). Potable water is available, but the Visitor Center (18 miles) is the only reliable water source for large quantities. A timed entry reservation is required for park entry from April to October (6 AM–5 PM), but campground reservations exempt campers from this requirement, though the $30 vehicle entrance fee (valid 7 days) applies. Check-in is at the host cabin near the entrance, where firewood ($5/bundle) is sold. The campground’s remoteness and lack of showers or hook-ups require preparation.
Amenities
Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring with grill, and access to potable water and flush/vault toilets. “Bathrooms were spotless,” praised a camper (PerfectCamp, 2025). No showers, dump stations, or electric/water/sewer hook-ups are available; the nearest showers are in Moab (10-minute drive from the Visitor Center). A dishwashing sink and trash/recycling dumpsters are provided, with animal-proof containers to deter wildlife. Firewood must be purchased from the camp host, as collecting wood is prohibited. The campground has an amphitheater for ranger-led programs, such as geology talks and stargazing, which campers love: “Kid-friendly ranger talks were a highlight,” said a reviewer (The Dyrt, 2023). Generators are allowed from 8 AM to 10 AM and 4 PM to 8 PM, but many sites are quiet due to tent campers and Dark Sky regulations prohibiting extra lighting.
Campsite Layout and Privacy
Devils Garden Campground is a single-loop layout among sandstone fins, pinyon pines, and junipers, offering a mix of open and tucked-away sites. Sites 18, 20, 21, 23, and 24, on the north/east side, have stunning views of arches and the La Sal Mountains but are exposed to sun and wind. Sites 46, 48, 50, 51, and 52, on the south side, are nestled among rocks for more shade and privacy. “Site 46 was private with rocks for kids to climb,” noted a camper (Campendium, 2025). Sites are paved (except tent pads), with parallel parking for most (e.g., sites 4, 5, 6, 9, 10 shared) and two pull-through sites (12, 19). Sites are relatively close together but designed for some seclusion. “No bad sites—every spot has views,” said a reviewer (PerfectCamp, 2025). The Canyon Wren (11–35 campers, $75–$160/night) and Juniper Basin (11–55 campers, $100–$250/night) group sites are tent-only and spacious, with Canyon Wren offering Skyline Arch views.
RV and Tent Camping
The campground accommodates tents and RVs/trailers up to 40 feet, with most sites fitting 20–30 feet due to tight spurs. “Our 35’ fifth wheel fit site 46, but backing in was tight,” reported a camper (Campendium, 2025). Two vehicles are allowed per site, with overflow parking near the entrance. Tent pads are dirt, and sites like 48, 50, and 51 are spacious for tents, with rock formations for privacy. “Site 52 was perfect for our tent—private and scenic,” said a camper (Tripadvisor, 2025). The lack of hook-ups and dump stations means RVers must plan for self-contained camping; the nearest dump station is in Moab. Pets are allowed on leashes in the campground but not on unpaved trails. The high desert setting, with red rock views and starry skies, enhances the experience, though limited shade requires sun protection.
Reservation and Cost
From March 1 to October 31, all 51 individual sites ($25/night, up to 10 people) and two group sites ($75–$250/night based on group size) require reservations via Recreation.gov, bookable six months in advance at 10 AM EDT. “Log in right at 10 AM—sites sell out fast,” advised a camper (Reddit, 2024). From November 1 to February 28, sites are first-come, first-served, with better availability but still competitive. “Got a spot in November without a reservation,” noted a camper (The Dyrt, 2023). The group sites are tent-only, with Canyon Wren (up to 35) and Juniper Basin (up to 55) reservable up to 12 months in advance. A $30 vehicle entrance fee (valid 7 days) is separate, with a 14-day stay limit park-wide. Cancellations incur a $20 fee and forfeit one night’s cost.
Activities and Attractions
Devils Garden Campground is steps from the Devils Garden Trailhead, offering access to the 7.2-mile Devils Garden Loop (visiting Landscape Arch, Tunnel Arch, Pine Tree Arch, Double O Arch, and more) and the 2-mile Broken Arch Trail. “Hiking to Tapestry Arch in the afternoon light was magical,” said a camper (Tripadvisor, 2025). Other trails include Delicate Arch (3 miles, 18 miles away) and Fiery Furnace (2 miles, permit required). The campground’s location avoids morning entrance lines, ideal for sunrise hikes. Stargazing is exceptional, with ranger-led astronomy programs at the amphitheater. Nearby Moab offers rafting, mountain biking, and dining, while Canyonlands National Park (30 miles) and Dead Horse Point State Park (25 miles) provide additional adventures. Rock climbing and scenic drives along Park Avenue or The Windows are popular, with ranger programs at the Visitor Center.
Wildlife and Safety
Wildlife includes mule deer, desert bighorn sheep, cougars, and kangaroo rats, with pinyon jays and lizards common. Food must be stored securely to deter animals, though bear activity is rare. The 5,200-foot elevation is less taxing than higher parks, but summer heat (100°F+) requires 1 gallon of water per person per day for hiking. “Went through two bottles on Double O Arch hike,” warned a camper (National Parks Traveler, 2012). Summer monsoons and slickrock pose risks; check NPS.gov for weather alerts. Winter nights drop to 20–30°F, so bring warm layers. Cell service is unreliable—don’t rely on it for navigation or emergencies. “No service at camp, so plan ahead,” noted a reviewer (The Dyrt, 2024). Pets must be leashed, and firewood collection is prohibited to protect the desert ecosystem.
Campground Map
Camper Feedback
Positives
- Scenic Beauty: The sandstone formations and La Sal Mountain views are stunning. “Camping among red rocks was unreal,” said a reviewer (PerfectCamp, 2025).
- Trail Access: Proximity to Devils Garden and Broken Arch trails is a highlight. “Walked to Landscape Arch from camp—perfect,” noted a camper (The Dyrt, 2025).
- Clean Facilities: Flush toilets and restrooms are well-maintained. “Bathrooms were clean despite no showers,” said a reviewer (Tripadvisor, 2025).
- Stargazing: The Dark Sky Park status is a draw. “Stars were incredible—best we’ve seen,” praised a camper (PerfectCamp, 2025).
Negatives
- No Showers: The lack of showers is a common complaint. “Had to drive to Moab for showers,” noted a camper (PerfectCamp, 2025).
- Competitive Reservations: Sites book up quickly. “Missed a spot despite logging in at 10 AM,” complained a camper (Reddit, 2024).
- Limited Shade: Exposed sites get hot. “Site 20 was windy and sunny—bring a canopy,” advised a reviewer (PerfectCamp, 2025).
- Small Sites: Some sites are tight for larger RVs. “Site 7 was small for our 35’ RV,” said a camper (Campendium, 2025).
Tips for Campers
- Book Early: Reserve sites exactly six months in advance at 10 AM EDT on Recreation.gov for March–October. Check for cancellations if you miss out.
- Choose Sites Wisely: Pick sites 18, 20, 21, 23, or 24 for views, or 46, 48, 50, 51, or 52 for privacy and shade. Use Recreation.gov’s site map.
- Bring Water: Carry 1 gallon per person per day for hiking and camping, as water at the campground can taste chlorinated. “Visitor Center water was better,” noted a camper (KTNPBlog, 2021).
- Prepare for Heat: Pack sun protection (hats, canopies) and extra water for summer. Hike early to avoid crowds and heat.
- Stargazing: Attend ranger-led astronomy programs and avoid extra lighting to comply with Dark Sky rules.
- Plan for Moab: Stock up on supplies and use showers in Moab (10 minutes from Visitor Center). Nearest dump station is also in Moab.
Overall Experience
Devils Garden Campground is a spectacular base for exploring Arches National Park, offering a front-row seat to red rock formations, starry skies, and trails like Devils Garden and Broken Arch. Its clean facilities, helpful hosts, and year-round access are highlights, though the lack of showers, hook-ups, and competitive reservations require planning. “Camping here was the highlight of our Arches trip,” summed up a camper (PerfectCamp, 2025). With early reservations, sun and heat preparation, and a focus on the park’s trails and night skies, Devils Garden delivers an unforgettable desert camping experience.
Sources: Recreation.gov, NPS.gov, The Dyrt, Tripadvisor, Campendium, PerfectCamp, KTNPBlog, National Parks Traveler, Park Ranger John, DiscoverMoab.com