About Upper Onion Creek Group Site
Overview Upper Onion Creek Group Sites are ideal for small family or group gatherings. Group Site A is designed for people with horses and has a horse corral and nearby equestrian trails. The campground offers striking views of the Colorado River canyon and the surrounding red rock cliffs, mesas and spires, with the La Sal Mountains as a dramatic back-drop. There is direct access to the Onion Creek four-wheel drive road (watch for seasonal rains and flash floods). The town of Moab is approximately 40 minutes away and has dining, shopping, sports rentals, tour companies and museums.Recreation Group Site A is designed for guests with horses and has a horse corral and nearby equestrian trails. Access to Onion Creek four-wheel drive road is adjacent to the campground and is popular for motorized and horse travel. The road has 27 wash crossings (be careful of seasonal rain and flooding hazards). Within close proximity to national parks and open space, outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, and four-wheel drive tours in the surrounding area.Facilities Group sites have fire grates, picnic tables, vault toilets and shade shelters. Group Site A has a horse corral. The group sites do not have water, dump stations or electric hook-ups.Natural Features Upper Onion Creek Campground is located along State Route 128. The views from the campground are spectacular and include Fisher Towers, Castle Valley and the Colorado River Canyon. The La Sal Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the red rock cliffs, spires and mesas. Nearby Attractions There are many hiking trails and viewpoints along State Route 128. The Fisher Towers area offers hiking, rock climbing and scenic vistas. There are boat launches at nearby Lower Onion Creek and Hittle Bottom Campgrounds. Upper Onion Creek Campground is about 40 minutes from Arches National Park and 55 minutes from Canyonlands National Park.Charges & Cancellations You may contact the BLM Moab Field Office for
How to Get There
From Moab, drive north to Highway 128, turn right on 128. Between mile markers 21 and 22 you will see the sign marking the Onion Creek road. Turn right and go about a half a mile. The group areas are on the left side of the road.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Upper Onion Creek Group Site
Heading to Upper Onion Creek Group Site? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Upper Onion Creek Group Site?
No central reservation system listed for Upper Onion Creek Group Site. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/251835) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Upper Onion Creek Group Site?
From Moab, drive north to Highway 128, turn right on 128. Between mile markers 21 and 22 you will see the sign marking the Onion Creek road. Turn right and go about a half a mile. The group areas are on the left side of the road.
How do I contact Upper Onion Creek Group Site?
You can reach the park at phone: 435-259-2100 or email: blm_ut_moabgroupsite@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
