Devils Garden Campground

Overview

Deep in the park at roughly 5,200 feet and about 18 miles from the entrance, Devils Garden Campground is the in-park basecamp. You’re sleeping among sandstone fins with sunrise and sunset light right outside your tent—no long pre-dawn drive required.

Setting & Layout

There are 51 sites (including two group sites and one accessible site), many tucked into rock alcoves with views; others are more exposed. Expect classic high-desert conditions: hot days, cool nights, and limited shade at some sites. It can be windy, so stake things well.

Facilities (What’s here—and what’s not)

• Tents and RVs (generally up to about 30–40 feet) welcome.
• Each site has a picnic table and an elevated fire ring; no tent pads.
• Flush toilets and potable water available. No showers, no RV hookups, and no dump station.
• No camp store, restaurant, gas, or WiFi. Firewood isn’t sold on-site—buy a coupon at the Visitor Center before you head up.
• Pets are allowed in the campground but not on park trails.

Trails From Camp

Trail access is the whole point here. Step from camp onto paths to Broken Arch, Sand Dune Arch, and Tapestry Arch. The nearby Devils Garden Trailhead is the gateway to Landscape Arch and beyond. Golden-hour light makes these walks even better.

Wildlife & Desert Life

Keep an eye out for mule deer, rabbits, lizards, and ever-present ravens and scrub jays. You may hear coyotes at night and see bats working the sky. Spring brings blooms around prickly pear and yucca that soften the red-rock scene.

Why Camp Here

Location, location, location. It’s the only developed campground in the park, and the scenery is off the charts. If you want early/late access to marquee trails without the drive back to town, this is the move.

Best Time to Visit

• Seasons: March–May and September–October offer the best temps. Summer is hot with little shade; winter can be cold and quieter (water may be limited if lines freeze).
• Reservations: Required March 1–October 31 and often snapped up months ahead. Off-season is first-come, first-served.
• Photography: Be on the trails at sunrise or near camp at sunset for warm, glowing rock. Midweek stays improve your odds for reservations and thinner crowds.

Practical Tips

Bring everything you need—there’s no store up here—and plan water and hygiene with no showers or dump station. Stake tents for wind, pack sun protection for midday heat, and aim to arrive before dark to settle in easily.