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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Upper Onion Creek Campground

La Sal, Utah · San Juan County · Campground

Upper Onion Creek 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. Individual sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Two group sites, Upper Onion Creek Group Sites A and B, are availab…

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About Upper Onion Creek Campground

Upper Onion Creek 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. Individual sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Two group sites, Upper Onion Creek Group Sites A and B, are available for reservation through Recreation.gov. Well-situated 0.7 miles off SR 128, 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. Fees: $20/night Water: No Toilets: Yes Hook-ups: No Individual Sites: 14 (limited to 10 people & two vehicles per site); Group Sites: 2 (reservable); Water: No; Toilets: Yes; Hook-ups: No.

How to Get There

From the junction of Hwy. 191 & Hwy 128, drive east 22 miles along the Colorado River. Turn left (across from the "Fisher Towers" sign) and drive 1.5 miles up the gravel 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 Campground

Heading to Upper Onion Creek Campground? 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 Campground?

Yes — reservations can be made on Recreation.gov. Popular sites fill quickly, especially weekends and holidays. Book up to 6 months in advance.

How do I get to Upper Onion Creek Campground?

From the junction of Hwy. 191 & Hwy 128, drive east 22 miles along the Colorado River. Turn left (across from the "Fisher Towers" sign) and drive 1.5 miles up the gravel road.

How do I contact Upper Onion Creek Campground?

You can reach the park at phone: (435) 259-2100 or email: utmbmail@blm.gov.