Exploring Arches National Park in Utah with an RV is a fantastic way to experience the park's unique and breathtaking landscapes. Here's what you need to know about RVing in Arches National Park:
RV Camping in Arches National Park1. Devils Garden Campground:
- Location: Inside Arches National Park, at the northern end of the main park road.
- Features: The only campground within the park, Devils Garden offers a scenic and peaceful setting surrounded by stunning rock formations and easy access to hiking trails.
- RV Accessibility: The campground accommodates RVs up to 40 feet, but the spaces are limited. It's essential to make reservations well in advance, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall).
- Amenities: The campground provides basic amenities, including picnic tables, fire pits, and flush toilets, but no hookups for water, electricity, or sewer. There's a dump station available seasonally.
- Nearby Attractions: From the campground, you have easy access to some of the park's most popular trails, like the Devils Garden Loop, which leads to famous arches such as Landscape Arch and Double O Arch.
2. Plan Your Visit During Off-Peak Times:
- Arches National Park can get very crowded, particularly in spring and fall. To avoid congestion, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.
3. Prepare for Dry Camping:
- Since there are no hookups at Devils Garden Campground, be prepared for dry camping (boondocking). Ensure your RV's water tanks are full, batteries are charged, and you have adequate propane for your stay.
4. Driving in the Park:
- The main road through Arches is well-maintained and accessible for RVs, but some parking areas and viewpoints have limited space, making it challenging to park larger rigs. You may want to unhook a tow vehicle for easier maneuvering around the park.
5. Nearby RV Parks:
- If Devils Garden is full or you prefer full hookups, there are several RV parks just outside the park in the nearby town of Moab. These parks offer amenities like electricity, water, sewer, and Wi-Fi, and they serve as a convenient base for exploring not only Arches but also nearby Canyonlands National Park and other attractions.
6. Prepare for Hot Weather:
- Summers in Arches can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C). If you visit during this time, plan outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day and ensure your RV's air conditioning is in good working order.
- Hiking: Take advantage of the many hiking trails accessible from the main road and Devils Garden Campground. Popular hikes include the Delicate Arch Trail, the Fiery Furnace (permit required), and the Windows Section.
- Scenic Drives: Enjoy the park's scenic drive, which offers stunning views of the park's iconic formations like Balanced Rock, Courthouse Towers, and various arches.
- Photography: Arches is a photographer's paradise, especially at sunrise and sunset when the light casts a warm glow on the red rock formations.
RVing in Arches National Park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in one of America's most beautiful natural landscapes. Whether you're enjoying a peaceful evening at Devils Garden or exploring the park's famous arches, your RV provides the perfect base for adventure.