About Lower Onion Creek Group Sites
Overview The Lower Onion Creek Group Sites are located along the banks of the Colorado River. The sites are ideal for small family or group gatherings of 15-30 people (parking is limited and can accomodate only one large RV or truck w/trailer). Lower Onion is also a launch site for river trips. 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. The town of Moab is approximately 40 minutes away and has dining, shopping, sports rentals, tour companies and museums. Recreation This location is close to hiking, mountain biking and four-wheel driving opportunities and is a launch site for river running on the Colorado River.Facilities Group sites have fire grates, picnic tables, vault toilets and shade shelters. The group sites do not have water, dump stations or electric hook-ups. A boat ramp is in the campground and near the group sites.Natural Features The group sites are located along the Colorado River offering spectacular view of the red rock canyons, buttes, mesas and spires against the backdrop of the nearby La Sal Mountains. A dry creek runs along the back of Group Site A (watch for flash-flooding)! Nearby Attractions There are many hiking, mountain biking and four-wheel drive trails along Hwy. 128. The Fisher Towers area offers hiking, rock climbing and scenic vistas. Lower Onion Creek is about 40 minutes from Arches National Park and one hour from Canyonlands National Park.Charges & Cancellations You may contact the BLM Moab Field Office for assistance with changes and cancellations at 435-259-2100. Changes You can make changes to a reservation through your online Recreation.gov user account any time prior to the arrival/first date of the reservation. There is a $10 change fee If you wish to change to dates entirely outside of the original reservation dates. There is no change fee if you wish to extend or shorten the original rese
How to Get There
From Moab drive north to the junction with Highway 128. Drive 22 miles on Highway 128 to the entrance to Lower Onion Creek campground, then 1.5 miles north on the gravel road. The group sites are located on the southwest side of the campground.
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 Lower Onion Creek Group Sites
Heading to Lower Onion Creek Group Sites? 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 Lower Onion Creek Group Sites?
No central reservation system listed for Lower Onion Creek Group Sites. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/255118) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Lower Onion Creek Group Sites?
From Moab drive north to the junction with Highway 128. Drive 22 miles on Highway 128 to the entrance to Lower Onion Creek campground, then 1.5 miles north on the gravel road. The group sites are located on the southwest side of the campground.
How do I contact Lower Onion Creek Group Sites?
You can reach the park at phone: (435)259-2100 or email: blm_ut_moabgroupsite@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
