Gooseberry Camping Area

Gooseberry is a primitive backcountry camping area on the White Rim Road in Canyonlands’ Island in the Sky district. It’s one of ten named areas along the route, with two designated sites, A and B. Treat it as an overnight on the loop, not a quick detour: traveling clockwise, the National Park Service estimates 30 miles and about three hours from the Island in the Sky Visitor Center.

An overnight needs both a backcountry permit and a campsite reservation. White Rim access requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle with low range; AWD and 2WD aren’t allowed. The full drive or bike circuit takes at least 10 to 12 hours, and spring and fall demand often exceeds the available overnight permits, so plan well ahead. Rain and high water can change what parts of the loop are passable; check road conditions before you go.

The two sites are generally placed out of earshot and, as far as possible, out of sight of each other. One toilet serves them both, and there’s no potable water anywhere on the White Rim; the park recommends at least a gallon per person per day, more with activity. There are no campfires, and pets aren’t allowed, even in vehicles. Each site can hold up to 15 people and three vehicles. The camp sits beneath an orange cliff band, with the broader view stretching across sandstone country toward the La Sal Mountains.