The best camping near Goblin Valley State Park

Along the San Rafael Swell in a remote part of the Utah desert between Arches and Capitol Reef national parks, Goblin Valley is a wonderland of uniquely shaped rocks that resemble monsters and mushroom-shaped creatures. Six miles of family-friendly trails wind through the formations, while a mountain bike trail system offers terrain for beginner and intermediate levels. The park campground offers a combo of RV sites and walk-in tent spots, as well as two yurts that sleep up to five people. Several popular slot canyon hikes are also set just outside the park entrance.

1. The Goblin Valley Campground has 25 campsites and two yurts, all available on a four-month rolling basis. Reservations can be made over the phone or online. 
2. Make sure that the campsite you book can accommodate your camping equipment. Only 14 campsites are suitable for RVs and trailers—the rest are walk-in tent sites. 
3. Goblin Valley camping is very popular. Reservations can be difficult to get during the busy spring and fall seasons. For the best luck, search the online reservation system for the next available dates and stay flexible.
4. If the campground is full, several primitive camping areas sit outside the park. Some, like the dispersed area on Temple Mountain Road, have restrooms. 

Goblin Valley State Park, its campground, and yurts are open year-round. Spring and fall are the best times to visit weatherwise, but this is also the busiest time  so avoid weekends and holidays if you can. Temperatures often exceed 100°F in summer, when hiking and camping can get uncomfortable. The yurts have air conditioning and heat, nice for summer and winter camping. 

1. All campsites include a picnic table, fire ring, and shade shelter. No electric hookups are available in Goblin Valley State Park.
2. Campers have access to showers, flush toilets, drinking water, and a dump station.
3. Arrive at Goblin Valley with a full tank of gas and all the groceries and camping supplies you’ll need. The nearest services are 33 miles away in the town of Hanksville. 
4. Flash flooding is common in the slot canyons around Goblin Valley in summer monsoon season, but it can happen any time of year. Check weather forecasts before entering a slot canyon and never enter one if there’s rain in the forecast. 
5. Leashed dogs are welcome on Goblin Valley trails.