Arches National Park
RV Guide
Introduction
Arches National Park offers exceptional RV camping opportunities near over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, with Devils Garden Campground providing the only camping inside the park, while strategic locations like Moab RV rentals and Green River camper van options offer prime access to this 76,680-acre red rock wonderland that welcomed 1.5 million visitors in 2023, making advance planning essential for RV travelers.
What Makes Arches the Ultimate RV Destination?
Home to the world's highest concentration of natural stone arches, Arches National Park captivates visitors with over 2,000 sandstone arches, towering fins, balanced rocks, and otherworldly desert landscapes. Located just 5 miles north of Moab, Utah, this iconic park sprawls across the Colorado Plateau at elevations ranging from 4,085 to 5,653 feet. Famous landmarks like Delicate Arch, the park's signature formation featured on Utah license plates, and Landscape Arch, one of the longest natural arches in the world, draw photographers and adventurers from around the globe.
You'll discover endless adventure during your RV trip to Arches, from hiking scenic trails and rock climbing to stargazing under certified International Dark Sky conditions. The park's accessibility makes it perfect for RV travelers—the 43-mile paved scenic drive features numerous pullouts where you can marvel at geological wonders from your rig's comfort. Popular spots like The Windows Section, Balanced Rock, and Park Avenue offer easy access for all ability levels. Photographers flock to catch golden hour light, painting the red rocks in brilliant hues, while adventurous souls tackle strenuous trails like Devils Garden or obtain permits for the ranger-guided Fiery Furnace experience.
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-October) provide the most comfortable weather for exploring, with temperatures ranging from 60-80°F. Summer sees peak visitation with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F, making early morning and late afternoon the best times for outdoor activities. Winter transforms the park into a serene wonderland with snow-dusted arches, minimal crowds, and crisp air perfect for photography—though temperatures drop to 30-50°F during the day.
The park experienced steady visitation during 2023-2024 with approximately 1.5 million annual visitors. This makes advance planning crucial for securing campground reservations, especially during peak seasons when Devils Garden Campground fills months ahead. From April through October, Arches implements a timed entry reservation system to manage congestion and enhance visitor experiences, so booking both your RV site and park entry in advance is essential.
RV Rentals in Arches National Park
Transportation
Driving
Arches National Park sits just north of Moab along US Highway 191, making it easily accessible for RVs of all sizes. The park entrance is located approximately 5 miles north of Moab's downtown area. From Interstate 70, take Exit 182 and travel south for 26 miles to reach the park entrance. The main scenic drive through the park is a well-maintained, paved 43-mile road suitable for RVs, though some sections feature winding curves and elevation changes.
Important RV Considerations: The maximum combined vehicle and trailer length allowed is 40 feet at Devils Garden Campground. While the main park road accommodates larger RVs, parking at popular viewpoints can be challenging during peak hours. Plan to arrive early morning (before 8 AM) or after 4 PM to secure RV-friendly parking spots.
Where Are the Best Gateway Cities for RV Rentals?
Primary Moab Access: Moab RV rentals position you perfectly just 5 miles from the park entrance, offering maximum convenience for daily visits. Moab serves as the outdoor recreation hub with full services, restaurants, and adventure outfitters. This location provides easy access to both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, plus world-class mountain biking and river activities.
Alternative Green River Base: Green River camper van rentals offer a quieter alternative approximately 50 miles northwest, providing access to Arches while positioning you for exploration of Capitol Reef National Park, Goblin Valley State Park, and the San Rafael Swell. This location works well for travelers seeking to avoid Moab's crowds while maintaining proximity to multiple destinations.
Parking
RV parking is available at the visitor center and major viewpoints throughout the park, though spaces are limited and fill quickly during peak season (March-October). Standard parking lots accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, but arrive early to secure spots—by 9 AM during summer, most parking areas reach capacity. Devils Garden Trailhead, Delicate Arch Viewpoint, and The Windows Section have the most RV-accessible parking. Overflow parking requires backtracking, which can be time-consuming on busy days.
Public Transportation
While no public transportation operates within the park, shuttle services from Moab to the park entrance are available through private tour companies during peak season. These shuttles don't accommodate RVs but offer an alternative for visitors wanting to avoid parking challenges. Cycling is permitted on paved roads, and some visitors bike from Moab to the park—though the route lacks dedicated bike lanes and requires sharing the road with vehicle traffic.
Campgrounds and parking in Arches National Park
Campsites in Arches National Park
Reservations camping
Devils Garden Campground
The only campground inside Arches National Park, Devils Garden Campground, sits 18 miles from the entrance at 5,200 feet, surrounded by stunning sandstone formations and natural arches. This primitive yet spectacular campground offers 51 sites (49 individual sites plus 2 group sites) available by reservation only from March 1 to October 31. Sites accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, though longer rigs should note that roads leading to some sites have tight turns.
Open year-round, Devils Garden transitions to first-come, first-served from November 1 through February 28, offering winter visitors a chance at spontaneous camping. Each site includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill. Modern amenities include flush toilets and potable water (turned off in winter), but no showers, electric hookups, water hookups, or dump stations are available. Campground hosts are on-site during peak season. Firewood must be purchased at the visitor center before heading to the campground, as it's not sold on-site.
The Broken Arch Trail, a moderate 2-mile loop, starts right from the campground, offering convenient hiking access. Reservations open 6 months in advance and fill almost immediately for peak season dates. Individual sites cost $25 per night, while group sites range from $75-$250 depending on size (11-55 people). Generator use is permitted 8 AM-10 AM and 4 PM-8 PM only.
Moab KOA
Located just 4 miles south of Arches National Park's entrance, Moab KOA delivers resort-style amenities with convenient park access. This premium campground accommodates big rigs up to 80 feet with full hookups featuring 30/50-amp service, water, sewer, and cable TV. Pull-through and back-in sites are available, many with KOA Patio upgrades including outdoor furniture and fire pits.
Amenities include a large swimming pool and hot tub perfect for post-hiking relaxation, a dog park with separate small and large dog sections, Wi-Fi throughout the property, clean restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, and a well-stocked camp store. Unique features include a bike wash and repair station catering to Moab's mountain biking crowd, propane refills, and firewood sales. The campground hosts ranger talks and activities during peak season.
Sites start around $60-$80 per night, depending on season and site type. The KOA also offers camping cabins and deluxe cabins for those seeking a break from their RV. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends and the March-October peak season. The property provides stunning views of the La Sal Mountains and easy access to downtown Moab's restaurants and shops.
Green River KOA
Positioned as a strategic basecamp 50 miles from Arches, Green River KOA offers full-service camping with easy I-70 access. This well-maintained facility accommodates RVs up to 100 feet with full hookups (50/30/20-amp service), cable TV in select sites, and both pull-through and back-in options. Many sites feature partial shade from mature trees.
The campground boasts an impressive pool with a Turbo-Twister water slide (open Memorial Day-Labor Day), KampK9 off-leash dog area, Wi-Fi, modern restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, and mini golf. The adjacent Tamarisk Restaurant offers convenient dining with KOA guest discounts. This location serves as an excellent hub for exploring Utah's "Super Six"—Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef National Parks, Dead Horse Point State Park, Goblin Valley State Park, and Little Wild Horse Canyon.
Tent sites with water and electric start around $40, while RV sites range from $50-$70 per night. The campground stays open year-round with limited winter services. Its location offers a quieter alternative to staying in crowded Moab while maintaining reasonable access to multiple parks and attractions.
Alternate camping
Private Campgrounds
Outside the national park, you can find various commercial campgrounds in and around Moab that offer RV camping with full hookups, showers, laundry facilities, running water, and much more. Full amenity camping allows you to be close to all the action at Arches National Park while overnighting in the comfort of your motorhome. If you prefer glamping over backcountry camping, a private campground is the way to go. These campgrounds tend to be available on a first-come, first-serve basis; however, some private campgrounds accept reservations.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Campgrounds
This BLM-managed facility offers 105 primitive sites across five separate campgrounds in a scenic red rock valley popular with ATV, UTV, and 4WD enthusiasts. Located in the Sand Flats Recreation Area east of Moab, The Ledge operates first-come, first-served for individual sites, with one reservable group site accommodating 15-30 people.
Individual sites cost $15 per night and can accommodate 10 people and 2 vehicles. The area has vault toilets but no water—bring all necessary water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. Sites offer minimal shade, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons (summer is extremely hot). Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring.
The location provides direct access to the famous Slickrock Bike Trail and other popular off-road routes. Note that generator use should be limited to reasonable hours to respect neighboring campers. The Ledge works well for budget-conscious RV travelers who don't require hookups and enjoy a more rugged camping experience.
Beyond The Ledge Campground, Sand Flats Recreation Area offers additional primitive camping opportunities with spectacular views of sandstone domes, canyons, and mesas backed by the La Sal Mountains. Sites feature picnic tables, grills, and fire rings, with some shade available. Water hookups are provided at certain sites, though electric and sewer hookups are not available.
The recreation area charges a daily use fee for vehicles entering, with camping fees additional. RVs are welcome, and the area accommodates various rig sizes on its dirt and gravel roads. The location is famous for hosting the Slickrock Trail, attracting mountain bikers from around the world. Camping here puts you within minutes of this iconic trail system.
Be prepared for dusty conditions and bring adequate water. The area gets extremely hot in summer, with limited shade. Spring and fall offer the best weather. The proximity to Moab (about 15 minutes) makes restocking supplies convenient while maintaining a more secluded camping experience than commercial campgrounds.
For RV travelers seeking additional options or encountering full campgrounds, several private facilities near Moab offer varying amenities and price points. Options include Portal RV Resort, ACT Campground, and various smaller operations along Highway 191. These typically feature full hookups, modern facilities, and competitive pricing ranging from $40-$80 per night, depending on services and season.
Many private campgrounds offer extended stay discounts, making them attractive for visitors planning longer explorations of the Moab area. Always confirm current rates, availability, and specific RV length restrictions when booking.
Explore more RV parks and campgrounds across North America for your next adventure.
Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway
Formerly Archview RV Resort, Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway sits just 10 minutes north of the park entrance, offering modern amenities with spectacular red rock views. The facility features 62 RV sites with full hookups, accommodating rigs of various sizes. Sites start at $60-$80 per night.
Amenities include an outdoor swimming pool and splash pad, hot tub, playground, BBQ pavilion with covered picnic areas, dog park, general store, clean restrooms and showers, and laundry facilities. Unique features include life-size outdoor chess, a historic Western church on the property, and views of Moab Valley and surrounding formations. The resort operates from March through October.
Wi-Fi is available throughout, and the location provides easy access to Arches while being far enough from Moab to avoid downtown crowds. The family-friendly atmosphere includes planned activities during peak season and ranger programs. Reservations open several months in advance and are essential for prime season visits.
Sun Outdoors Moab Downtown
For those prioritizing proximity to Moab's restaurants and nightlife, Sun Outdoors Moab Downtown delivers an in-town location with full RV amenities. This campground features full hookup sites with 30/50-amp service, accommodating RVs of various sizes. Sites range from $55-$75 per night.
Amenities include a swimming pool, Wi-Fi, cable TV, picnic tables, fire rings, clean restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, and a camp store. The location puts you within walking distance (about 4 blocks) of downtown Moab's shops, breweries, restaurants, and galleries. Note this is not a tent-only facility, despite being in town—RVs with generators should observe quiet hours.
The urban setting means less solitude but maximum convenience for dining out, restocking supplies, or enjoying evening entertainment after park adventures. The campground is pet-friendly and open year-round, though services may be reduced in winter. Early reservations are crucial for this popular location.
Sun Outdoors Canyonlands Gateway
Positioned north of Moab between Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Sun Outdoors Canyonlands Gateway offers 77 full hookup sites ideal for exploring both parks. RV sites accommodate rigs of various sizes with 30/50-amp service, and sites start at $66 per night.
This March-October operation features an outdoor pool and splash pad, picnic areas, BBQ grills, a dump station, and pet-friendly policies. The red rock setting provides scenic views while maintaining convenient access to park entrances. Clean restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities round out the amenities. Its location works particularly well for visitors planning to explore both Arches and the Islands in the Sky district of Canyonlands.
Seasonal activities in Arches National Park
Winter
Solitude & Snow Photography
Winter offers Arches' greatest solitude—you might have famous viewpoints entirely to yourself. Occasional snowfall creates magical conditions with white-capped red rocks against blue skies. Fresh snow transforms familiar scenes into otherworldly landscapes. Cold temperatures preserve snow longer on shaded north-facing surfaces. Bundle up for extended photography sessions and bring hand warmers.
Relaxing
There’s no better place to get away than Arches National Park, especially in the winter when fewer people are inclined to brave the chilly evening and morning temperatures. If you visit during the winter, make sure you have a heat source, and prepare to bundle up with your blankets, sweaters, and hot chocolate in your RV. If you need some silence and seclusion from the world during the winter, Arches National Park is the place to visit.
Shopping and Souvenir Hunting
Do you wish to take some of the park back home with you? You can do just that by buying a book or an Arches National Park magnet from the bookstore, located inside of the Visitor Center. At the bookstore, you’ll find all kinds of educational and fun books related to the park, as well as other items like posters, tee-shirts, and passport stamps. Visiting the bookstore is also an excellent way to take a break and warm up from the cold when you are visiting in the winter.
Off-Season Exploration
Without summer crowds, winter visitors can explore at their own pace. Take time to really observe geological details, read interpretive signs, and appreciate the silence. The lack of timed entry reservations means spontaneous visits. Moderate trails like Park Avenue and The Windows Section remain accessible most winter days. Just watch for ice on north-facing sections and after storms.
Winter Wildlife Tracking
Fresh snow reveals animal tracks and activity patterns. Look for deer tracks, coyote prints, and bird activity around the campground and along trails. Winter brings certain bird species not present in summer. The desert's cold-blooded residents retreat to shelters, making encounters unlikely but reducing hazards from rattlesnakes and scorpions.
Did you enjoy reading this guide? For more Utah desert adventures, check out our Canyonlands National Park guide and Capitol Reef National Park guide.
Fall
Horseback Riding
If horseback riding is your preferred way to explore the park, hitch up the horse trailer behind the rig, and get ready for a beautiful ride. Horseback riding can be a fun and relaxing way to see what this national park has to offer. While some areas restrict horseback riding, the park is still very open and provides plenty of places to ride. Just be sure to clean up after your horse and remember that grazing is not allowed.
Peak Photography Season
Many photographers consider fall the ultimate time for capturing the Arches. September and October deliver warm light, intense blue skies, and ideal temperatures for spending hours scouting compositions. The sun's lower angle creates longer shadows and more dimensional images. Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and Double Arch all shine in fall lighting. Fewer crowds mean you can work scenes without dozens of people in frame.
Extended Hiking
Cooler temperatures make fall perfect for longer, more strenuous trails. The full 7.2-mile Devils Garden Loop with extensions to Private Arch and Dark Angel becomes manageable. The challenging 3-mile Tower Arch hike in the Klondike Bluffs area offers solitude and a spectacular payoff. Backcountry enthusiasts can obtain overnight permits to explore areas like Lost Spring Canyon.
Rock Climbing & Canyoneering
Fall's comfortable temperatures attract rock climbers to routes like Owl Rock and various towers. While climbing on named arches is prohibited, many other formations welcome technical ascents. Canyoneering enthusiasts explore nearby areas like the Fiery Furnace (permit required) and surrounding BLM lands. Guide services in Moab offer instruction and guided trips for various skill levels.
Special Events in Moab
October brings the Moab Jeep Safari and other off-road vehicle events, drawing huge crowds. These festivals make lodging scarce but offer unique cultural experiences. September's Moab Music Festival presents classical music concerts in stunning outdoor settings. Check event calendars when planning fall visits to either participate or avoid peak crowds.
Summer
Ranger Programs
Summer sees the full schedule of ranger programs operating daily. Evening presentations at Devils Garden Campground cover topics from geology and archaeology to wildlife and park history. Daytime guided walks explore various trails with ranger interpretation. The Fiery Furnace tour runs multiple times daily during the summer—book well in advance through Recreation.gov.
Stargazing
As a certified International Dark Sky Park, Arches offers phenomenal night sky viewing. Summer's warm evenings make extended stargazing comfortable without bundling up. Rangers lead astronomy programs at Devils Garden Campground amphitheater several evenings per week, bringing telescopes and expertise. The Windows Section, Panorama Point, and Devils Garden areas provide excellent dark sky viewing away from Moab's light pollution.
Dawn & Dusk Hiking
Summer demands strategic timing—plan hikes for early morning before temperatures soar or late afternoon/evening after the worst heat passes. Sunrise hikes to Delicate Arch reward early risers with cooler temperatures and dramatic lighting without crowds. Sunset photography sessions at various viewpoints capture the rocks glowing in warm golden light. Bring headlamps for pre-dawn starts and post-sunset returns.
Scenic Driving
When midday heat becomes oppressive, enjoy the air-conditioned comfort of your RV while cruising the 43-mile scenic drive. Numerous pullouts provide stunning views without strenuous hiking. Stop at Balanced Rock (visible from your vehicle), Park Avenue Viewpoint, and Panorama Point for quick photo opportunities. The drive itself offers incredible scenery and geological interpretation.
Spring
Wildflower Viewing & Photography
Spring transforms the desert with blooming wildflowers, adding splashes of yellow, purple, and red against the red rock backdrop. March through May offers prime photography conditions with soft light, comfortable temperatures, and colorful foregrounds for arch compositions. Popular spots include Park Avenue, The Windows Section, and areas around Devils Garden. Early morning and late afternoon provide the most dramatic lighting.
Moderate Hiking
Spring's mild temperatures make it ideal for tackling moderate trails like the 3-mile round-trip to Delicate Arch, the park's most iconic formation. The 7.2-mile Devils Garden Loop becomes manageable without summer's oppressive heat. The 1-mile Windows Primitive Loop and 2-mile Broken Arch Trail from Devils Garden Campground offer excellent introductory hikes with big scenery payoffs.
Ranger-Guided Programs
Ranger-led programs resume in April, including evening programs at Devils Garden Campground amphitheater, guided hikes to various arches, and the highly sought-after Fiery Furnace tours. The Fiery Furnace tour requires advance reservations (often booking out months ahead) and takes visitors through a spectacular maze of fins and slots that's off-limits without a ranger or permit.
Wildlife Watching
Spring brings increased wildlife activity as animals emerge from winter dormancy and prepare for breeding seasons. Watch for desert bighorn sheep (though rare), mule deer, kangaroo rats, and numerous bird species. Reptiles become more active as temperatures warm—watch where you place your hands and feet while scrambling. Early morning offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
