Hittle Bottom Campground

Welcome to Hittle Bottom Campground, a picturesque and highly sought-after destination nestled along the majestic Colorado River, just a short drive from Moab, Utah. If you're a local Utahn yearning for an authentic red rock country experience, whether your passion is whitewater rafting, exhilarating hiking, or simply soaking in some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth, Hittle Bottom offers an unparalleled setting. This Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campground provides a unique blend of accessibility and rugged beauty, making it an ideal basecamp for your adventures in one of Utah's most iconic regions.

At Hittle Bottom Campground, we understand the allure of Utah's wild spaces. Our commitment is to offer a clean, functional, and naturally stunning environment where you can connect with the raw beauty of the desert. The campground is renowned for its incredible views, with landmarks like Fisher Towers, Professor Valley, and the towering Castle formation dominating the horizon. It's a place where you can launch a river trip, embark on a scenic hike, or simply relax by the river's edge, all while being immersed in a truly unforgettable landscape. The atmosphere here encourages unplugging and embracing the natural rhythms of the desert, making it a perfect retreat for those looking to escape the everyday and immerse themselves in genuine outdoor living. Many visitors have shared how Hittle Bottom offers "breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere," making it a favorite for repeat visits.

Hittle Bottom Campground is located in Utah, specifically near the address of Utah 84532, which encompasses the general Moab area. More precisely, Hittle Bottom is situated approximately 23 miles northeast of Moab along the scenic Highway 128 (also known as the Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway). To reach the campground from the visitor center in Moab, you would drive north on Highway 191 for about 2.5 miles, then turn right onto UT 128 at Lions Park, and follow this incredibly scenic route along the Colorado River. The campground entrance is clearly marked with a Hittle Bottom Recreation Area sign.

This prime location offers excellent accessibility for residents throughout Utah. While it's a bit further from Moab's immediate bustle, this distance contributes to its "quieter atmosphere" and allows for more profound immersion in the natural surroundings. The paved Highway 128 provides a smooth and incredibly picturesque drive, suitable for all vehicle types, including large RVs and those towing trailers, though some sites may have varied approaches. Its position directly on the Colorado River also makes it incredibly convenient for river enthusiasts, serving as a popular launch point for the "Moab Daily" stretch of the river. Despite its seemingly remote feel, Hittle Bottom remains well-connected to the amenities of Moab, which is about 25-45 minutes away, offering a balance of wilderness and practical access to supplies and services. This blend of remote beauty and reasonable accessibility makes it a highly desirable destination for locals seeking an authentic outdoor experience without excessive travel time from their homes in Utah.

Services Offered:

• Individual Campsites: 15 single-family campsites available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
• Group Campsite: One reservable group site suitable for larger gatherings (up to 40 people, 10 vehicles).
• Accommodates Tents, Trailers, and RVs: Sites are designed to host various camping setups, with some accommodating RVs up to 40 feet.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings and Grills: Individual sites and the group site include fire rings and grills for campfires and cooking.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and maintained pit/vault toilet facilities are available throughout the campground.
• Trash Collection: Designated trash receptacles are available for waste disposal.
• Boat Launch/Ramp: A popular boat ramp is located within the campground for launching river trips on the Colorado River.
• Shade Shelters (Group Site): The group site offers a shade shelter for added comfort.
• No Potable Water: Visitors must bring their own drinking water, as no water collection points are available on-site.
• No Hookups: Campsites are primitive, with no electric, water, or sewer hookups.
• Pets Allowed: Leashed pets are welcome at the campground.
• Generator Hours: Generators are permitted from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Features / Highlights:

• Spectacular Views: Offers breathtaking vistas of the Colorado River, Fisher Towers, Richardson Amphitheater, Professor Valley, and the iconic Castle formation.
• Colorado River Access: Direct access to the Colorado River for rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
• Popular River Launch Site: Serves as a prime put-in for the "Moab Daily" section of the Colorado River, a renowned whitewater adventure.
• Secluded Riverside Sites: Many campsites are located along the banks of the river, providing privacy and direct water access.
• Access to Hiking Trails: Trailhead for the 3-mile Amphitheater Loop Trail begins at the campground, offering scenic views of the Colorado River Valley.
• Proximity to National Parks: Located approximately 45 minutes from Arches National Park and about an hour from Canyonlands National Park.
• Cottonwood Tree Shade: Features cottonwood trees that provide welcome shade, especially in the warmer months.
• Year-Round Operation: The campground is open year-round, allowing for seasonal variations in the outdoor experience.
• Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Stargazing: Away from significant light pollution, providing excellent conditions for night sky observation.
• Historic Homestead: Visitors can explore a historic homestead on site, adding a cultural dimension to their visit.

Contact Information:

Address: Utah 84532, USA (Located approximately 23 miles northeast of Moab on Highway 128)

As a BLM campground, Hittle Bottom typically does not have a direct phone number for the site itself. For general inquiries, reservations for the group site, or information regarding current conditions and regulations, it is best to contact the Bureau of Land Management - Moab Field Office. Their main phone number is typically available through a quick online search for "BLM Moab Field Office" or by visiting the Recreation.gov website for Hittle Bottom Campground.

Conclusion: Why Hittle Bottom Campground is Suitable for Locals

For residents of Utah, Hittle Bottom Campground offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the state's iconic red rock landscapes without having to travel excessive distances. Its location along the stunning Colorado River, a mere 23 miles from Moab, makes it an incredibly accessible and convenient escape for a weekend or longer, providing a true taste of adventure right in their own backyard. This proximity means less time spent driving and more time enjoying the unique recreational opportunities that define Utah's outdoor culture.

What truly sets Hittle Bottom apart for locals is its ability to serve as a versatile basecamp for a wide array of activities. Whether you're an avid whitewater enthusiast eager to launch a "Moab Daily" rafting trip directly from the campground's boat ramp, or a hiker keen to explore trails like the Amphitheater Loop with its "broad vistas of the Colorado River Valley," this site caters to diverse interests. The availability of fire rings, picnic tables, and clean vault toilets, combined with the option for both tent and RV camping, ensures a comfortable experience even in this primitive setting. The "spacious sites" and "peaceful atmosphere," as noted by fellow campers, provide a much-needed respite from daily life, allowing Utahns to truly unplug and reconnect with nature.

Furthermore, Hittle Bottom's close proximity to world-renowned attractions like Arches and Canyonlands National Parks means locals have easy access to even more hiking, biking, and scenic driving opportunities. The year-round accessibility, along with the beautiful cottonwood trees offering shade during warmer months, makes it a reliable choice for any season. By choosing Hittle Bottom Campground, Utahns are not just finding a place to stay; they are embracing a lifestyle of adventure, appreciation for natural beauty, and a deep connection to the stunning landscapes that make our state unique. It's a place where lasting memories are made, all within the accessible grandeur of Utah's red rock country.