Camping @ Moab, UT

4 min read

May 27

Moab on a Budget: A Camping Adventure in Utah's Red Rock Paradise

Moab, Utah – the name itself conjures images of towering red rock canyons, rushing rivers, and endless desert landscapes. This outdoor enthusiast's paradise might seem like a destination for the well-heeled adventurer, but fear not, budget travelers! With a little planning and some SimpleSmarties Travel pro tips, you can experience the magic of Moab without breaking the bank. This guide will equip you for an unforgettable camping getaway in Moab, focusing on free and low-cost activities, delicious budget eats, and hidden gems to explore.

Why Moab?

Moab is a gateway to some of America's most stunning natural wonders. Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park are all within a short drive, offering a smorgasbord of red rock formations, arches, canyons, and breathtaking overlooks. The Colorado River carves its way through the landscape, creating great opportunities for whitewater rafting, kayaking, or simply taking a dip in its cool waters. Moab itself is a charming town with a vibrant art scene, delicious local eats, and a strong sense of community.

Planning Your Budget Camping Adventure:

Season & Weather:

Shoulder Seasons (Spring & Fall): These are the sweet spots for Moab, offering pleasant temperatures (highs in the 70s-80s F, lows in the 40s-50s F) and manageable crowds.
Summer: Expect scorching temperatures (often exceeding 100°F) and larger crowds. Opt for early morning or late afternoon activities if visiting during summer.
Winter: The coldest months bring cooler temperatures (highs in the 40s-50s F, lows in the 20s-30s F) with a chance of snow. Some campgrounds and trails may be closed.

Camping on a Budget:

Instead of expensive hotels, pitch a tent and embrace the true Moab experience! Here are some options:

National Park Campgrounds: Arches and Canyonlands National Parks both have campgrounds with basic amenities (around $20-$30 per night). Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.
BLM Campgrounds: The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages many dispersed camping areas around Moab, offering free camping with limited or no amenities. Research locations and regulations in advance.
State Parks: Dead Horse Point State Park offers a campground with stunning views for a reasonable price (around $20-$30 per night).

SimpleSmarties Travel Pro Tip: Pack a reusable water bottle and fill it up at the campground or town water fountains. Stay hydrated and avoid buying expensive bottled water.

Must-Try Budget Eats:

Moab caters to all budgets, and you don't need to break the bank to enjoy delicious food. Here are some budget-friendly options:

Grocery Stores: Stock up on groceries for camp meals. Moab has several grocery stores with a good selection of affordable options.
Food Trucks: Moab has a thriving food truck scene offering everything from tacos and burgers to gourmet sandwiches and Asian cuisine at reasonable prices.
Picnics: Take advantage of the stunning scenery and pack a picnic lunch. Head to Arches National Park or Dead Horse Point State Park for unforgettable picnic spots.

Must-Try Restaurants:

Looking for a splurge? Here are a few delicious and budget-friendly restaurants in Moab:

Moab Diner: Classic American diner fare with generous portions and reasonable prices.
Miguel's Baja Grill: Delicious and authentic Mexican food with vegetarian options.
Moab Brewery: Enjoy a locally brewed beer and pub fare with a lively atmosphere.

Free & Low-Cost Activities

Moab offers a plethora of free and low-cost activities to fill your itinerary:

National Parks:

Arches National Park: Explore over 2,000 arches, including Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and Double Arch. Entrance fee is $30 per vehicle.
Canyonlands National Park: Hike through canyons, mesas, and buttes with breathtaking views. Entrance fee is $30 per vehicle.

State Parks:

Dead Horse Point State Park: Witness breathtaking panoramic views of the Colorado River from dramatic overlooks. Entrance fee is $20 per vehicle.

Free Activities:

Scenic Drives: Take a scenic drive along the Colorado River on UT-313 or explore the dramatic landscapes of the La Sal Mountains.
Hiking: Moab boasts numerous hiking trails for all skill levels. Hike Delicate Arch Viewpoint Trail

Sample Weekend Itinerary:

This itinerary provides a taste of Moab's adventures on a budget, focusing on free and low-cost activities:

Day 1:

Morning: Arrive in Moab and set up camp at your chosen campground.
Afternoon: Drive to Arches National Park and explore Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and Double Arch. Hike the Delicate Arch Viewpoint Trail for panoramic views. (Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle)
Evening: Enjoy a picnic dinner overlooking the Colorado River at Dead Horse Point State Park. (Entrance Fee: $20 per vehicle) Watch the sunset paint the red rocks with vibrant colors.

SimpleSmarties Travel Pro Tip: Pack a lunch with reusable containers to avoid buying overpriced food inside the National Parks.

Day 2:

Morning: Hike Canyonlands National Park's Mesa Arch Trail for stunning views of canyons and mesas. (Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle)
Afternoon: Relax and take a dip in the Colorado River at a designated swimming area like Lower Spring Creek or The Wedge.
Evening: Catch a free movie night or live music event hosted by local businesses in Moab. Enjoy a delicious and affordable meal at Miguel's Baja Grill.

Day 3:

Morning: Explore the charming town of Moab. Visit local shops, browse art galleries, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Afternoon: Take a scenic drive along UT-313 and admire the stunning Colorado River landscape.
Evening: Enjoy a campfire at your campsite and stargaze under the clear night sky.

Must-Try Events & Festivals (on a Budget):

Moab ArtsWalk (April): A free event showcasing local artists' work. Enjoy live music, food vendors, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Hootenanny on the Hill (September): A free, family-friendly festival featuring live music, local crafts, and delicious food.
Moab Folk Festival (October): A ticketed event (around $50-$100) celebrating folk music with renowned artists and workshops. Consider attending a free outdoor concert during the festival.

Other Tips & Hacks:

National Park Annual Pass: If you plan on visiting multiple National Parks during your travels, consider purchasing a National Park Annual Pass ($80) for unlimited access to National Park sites for a year.
Fuel Up: Gas prices can be higher in Moab compared to larger cities. Fill up your tank before reaching Moab.
Gear Rentals: If you don't own camping gear, consider renting it from local outfitters in Moab.
Leave No Trace: Respect the natural environment by following Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash, minimize campfire impact, and stay on designated trails.

SimpleSmarties Travel Pro Tip: Download offline maps and park guides before your trip to save on data usage.

Embrace the Adventure:

Moab is a destination that will leave a lasting impression. With a little planning and these budget-friendly tips, you can experience the magic of this red rock paradise without breaking the bank. So ditch the luxury hotels and embrace the spirit of adventure – pitch your tent, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to explore the wonders of Moab!