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BLM Camping

Grandstaff Campground

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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Grandstaff Campground

The Bureau of Land Management oversees more than 245 million acres of public lands you can explore in every state of the country. They include forests, mountains, rangelands, arctic tundra, and deserts. Developed BLM campgrounds usually offer limited conveniences like showers and charge a small fee which is then used to maintain them. Bureau of Land Management free camping is available at dispersed camping sites. These sites often have level spaces to park your RV and vault toilets, especially if they are near popular landmarks or hiking trails. When camping at these locations, the BLM asks that you use preexisting sites and fire rings. While stay limits vary by region, you can generally camp at Utah BLM sites for two weeks within a given month. Nestled in the heart of the Utah wilderness, the Grandstaff Campground is named after William Grandstaff, an African American rancher who was among the first non-native settlers to make their home in the area. Today it offers sites for tents and small RVs like camper vans along the Colorado River. While staying here, you can explore nearby hiking trails and a wilderness study area. Moab is three miles away and has a museum if you want to learn more about the area's history. In addition, the entrance to Arches National Park is only a 10-minute drive from the campground.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Grandstaff Trail

Grandstaff Trail is next to the campground, offering a great place to stretch your legs after you arrive. It winds through canyons to the turn-around point at Glory Natural Bridge, a land bridge that is a popular local landmark. During the hike, you must cross a creek, so be prepared to get your feet wet. Length: 4.8 miles Intensity: Moderate

Fisher Towers Trail

About 20 miles northeast of the campground is the Fisher Towers Trail. This hike offers breathtaking views of the Fisher Towers and the Colorado River. Length: 4.4 miles Intensity: Moderate

Delicate Arch Trail

Around 20 miles northwest of the campground Delicate Arch Trail is in Arches National Park. This hike will take you to Delicate Arch, one of the most photographed features in the park. If you do this hike early in the morning, you can watch the sunrise through the arch. Length: 3.0 miles Intensity: Moderate

Corona Arch Trail

Corona Arch Trail is approximately 10 miles west of Grandstaff Campground. The trail takes you to the stunning Corona Arch, known as "Little Rainbow Bridge." You can take your dog on this hike and will see multiple arches along the route. Length: 3.0 miles Intensity: Moderate

Slide Rock Bike Trail

Slide Rock Bike Trail is in the Sand Flats Recreation Area, about five miles east of Grandstaff Campground. This route offers experienced mountain bikers a tour through canyons and along ridge lines in a desert landscape. Length: 10.5 miles Intensity: Difficult

Fishing

Fishing enthusiasts can head to Ken's Lake, about 20 miles south of the campground. It's a beautiful spot stocked with trout and a favorite of local anglers. Remember to check local regulations and ensure you have the proper fishing license.

Boating

For those interested in boating, the Colorado River is just a few miles away from the campground. The river offers opportunities for rafting, kayaking, and canoeing. Outfitters in Moab can assist with equipment rentals and guided tours.

Rock Climbing

Moab is a well-known destination for rock climbing. Potash Road, also known as "Wall Street," is a famous spot about 10 miles from the campground. It offers a range of routes for beginners and experts alike.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

Granstaff Campground does not have sites suitable for RVs larger than a camper van. However, there are other terrific options nearby. BLM RV camping is available at Ken's Lake Campground 10 miles south of Granstaff and has spots that can accommodate large motorhomes and trailers on loop A. It does not have hookups but does provide gravel parking pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. OK RV Park is also about 10 miles south, has full hookups, laundry machines, free internet, and is pet friendly.

Free Camping

For free camping in dispersed campgrounds, the BLM permits you to set up camp in designated areas near Grandstaff Campground. One such area is the Gemini Bridges Road Dispersed Camping area, approximately 30 miles southwest of Grandstaff Campground. You can find other free sites in the region by searching "BLM camping near me" on your smartphone or tablet once you arrive in the area.

RV Rentals Near Grandstaff Campground Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Grandstaff Campground BLM trip

When planning a trip to Grandstaff Campground, bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and suitable gear for the desert climate. Moab is close by and has everything you need to stock up, including gas a groceries. The camping sites at Ken's Campground and OK RV Park fill up quickly during peak season, so make sure you make reservations early. Camping at BLM sites in this area offers a budget-friendly way to enjoy Utah's natural beauty and set up a base camp close to Arches National Park. However, staying in a campground with few or no amenities can take careful planning to make sure your stay is comfortable. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

When staying at Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, you must follow the tenets of 'Leave No Trace." These guidelines help ensure public land is preserved for future generations. "Leave No Trace" emphasizes respect for nature and other visitors and encourages taking responsibility for your impact on the natural environment. When camping, you must pack out your trash if no garbage cans are available. In addition, when exploring, leave behind what you find and respect wildlife.