Warner Campground

For Utah locals seeking an unparalleled escape from the summer heat and a truly awe-inspiring connection with nature, Warner Campground in the Manti-La Sal National Forest is a hidden gem. Nestled high in the majestic La Sal Mountains at an elevation of approximately 9,400 feet, this campground offers a breathtaking respite and a completely different experience from the desert landscapes of nearby Moab. It's a place where the air is crisp, the views are panoramic, and the opportunities for outdoor adventure are as vast as the Utah sky. Many long-time visitors consider it "heaven on earth," a cherished spot to cool off and recharge after exploring the iconic national parks of Arches and Canyonlands.

Warner Campground provides a classic mountain camping experience, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate tranquility and natural beauty. Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of aspen leaves, with a cool mountain breeze greeting you. Spend your days exploring a network of scenic trails, paddling on the serene Warner Lake, or simply relaxing by your campfire, soaking in the incredible vistas of Haystack Mountain and the distant desert. This campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a high-altitude sanctuary that offers a profound sense of peace and adventure, deeply embedded in Utah’s stunning landscapes. It's a testament to the diverse natural wonders that make our state so unique.

The charm of Warner Campground lies not only in its natural setting but also in its well-maintained facilities and the genuine sense of community it fosters among campers. It’s a place that has drawn visitors back for decades, a testament to its enduring appeal and the memorable experiences it consistently provides. Whether you're an avid hiker, a keen angler, a mountain biker, or simply someone looking to escape the intensity of the lower elevations, Warner Campground offers a refreshing change of pace and scenery. It's a perfect base camp for exploring the greater Moab area by day, and then retreating to cool mountain air and starry nights, creating a perfectly balanced Utah adventure.

Warner Campground is located within the Manti-La Sal National Forest at Forest Rd 0063, Moab, UT 84532, USA. While it’s near Moab, reaching this elevated paradise requires a scenic drive up into the La Sal Mountains. The journey itself is part of the experience, often described as beautiful yet potentially daunting due to winding mountain roads. From Moab, the general route involves taking US 191 south for about 6.8 miles to the La Sal Mountain Loop Road sign, then turning left and following signs towards Warner Lake for approximately 22 miles. It's important to note that access to the campground can be affected by road conditions, especially depending on the season, as it sits at an elevation of around 9,400 feet. The roads leading up, particularly the final few miles, can be gravel and washboarded, making higher clearance or 4WD vehicles recommended, although 2WD vehicles can often manage it with care.

Visitors should be aware of potential road construction in the area, particularly during the active season (mid-May to early October), which might necessitate detours or affect travel times. It's always advisable for locals to check current road conditions and any construction advisories from the Manti-La Sal National Forest before heading out. Despite the uphill climb, the accessibility of Warner Campground from Moab makes it a prime location for those looking to combine desert adventures with a refreshing mountain retreat. The approximately 30-mile drive from Moab takes about an hour due to the mountainous and winding roads, emphasizing the elevated and secluded nature of this campground.

Services Offered:

• 19 Campsites: Warner Campground offers 19 individual campsites, each designed to provide a comfortable and scenic base for your outdoor adventures.
• Group Campsite: For larger gatherings, a dedicated group campsite is available, accommodating up to 50 people, perfect for family reunions or larger friends' trips.
• Cabin Rental: A rustic, two-room cabin is also available for rent, sleeping up to four people on bunk beds, and includes basic kitchenware, a propane stove/oven, and solar-powered lighting.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are conveniently located throughout the campground for guest use.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available from spigots throughout the campground, ensuring access to fresh water during your stay.
• Trash Collection: Trash receptacles are provided, and visitors are encouraged to dispose of their waste properly to maintain the cleanliness of the forest.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite, including the cabin and group site, is equipped with a sturdy picnic table for outdoor dining and gatherings.
• Fire Rings with Grills: Individual fire rings with grills are provided at each site, perfect for campfires and cooking outdoors, subject to fire restrictions.
• Bear Boxes: Many sites are equipped with bear boxes for safe food storage, crucial given the campground's wildland setting.
• Accommodates Tents, Small Trailers & RVs (up to 20-25 feet): The campsites are suitable for various camping setups, though larger RVs might find navigation challenging on the access roads and within the campground.

Features / Highlights:

• High-Altitude Refreshment (9,400 feet elevation): Warner Campground provides a much-needed cool retreat, offering significantly lower temperatures than the Moab valley, making it ideal during Utah's hot summer months.
• Proximity to Warner Lake: The campground is situated right next to beautiful Warner Lake, offering easy access for water activities and scenic views.
• Stunning Mountain & Lake Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Warner Lake and the surrounding La Sal Mountains, including the precipitous Haystack Mountain (11,634 feet), from many campsites and the cabin porch.
• Extensive Trail System Access: A trailhead is located within the campground, providing direct access to numerous hiking trails including the Trans-Mountain Trail, Miners Basin Trail, Warner Lake-Oowah Lake Trail, Burro Pass Trail, and Dry Fork-Beaver Basin Trail.
• Opportunities for Water Activities: Warner Lake is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, paddle-boarding, and fishing for rainbow trout, providing refreshing recreation options.
• Wildlife Viewing & Bird Watching: The dense forest and natural setting make it an excellent spot for observing local wildlife, including mule deer, and engaging in bird watching.
• Spectacular Autumn Colors: A dense forest of aspens provides partial shade and transforms into a display of spectacular autumn colors, making it a prime destination in late summer and early fall.
• Day Trip Proximity to National Parks: Arches and Canyonlands National Parks are close enough for exciting day trips, allowing campers to experience the unique desert landscapes before retreating to the cool mountains.
• Nearby Moab Amenities: The town of Moab is less than an hour's drive away, offering a range of dining, shopping, galleries, grocery stores, gas stations, and outdoor outfitter services.
• Poor Cell Service: Embrace the opportunity to truly disconnect, as cell service in the area is generally poor, encouraging a digital detox and deeper immersion in nature.

Contact Information:

Address: Manti La Sal National Forest, Forest Rd 0063, Moab, UT 84532, USA

Phone for Reservations (Recreation.gov): (877) 444-6777

For campground inquiries and current conditions, you may also be able to reach the Moab Ranger District of the Manti-La Sal National Forest at (435) 259-7155 or (435) 636-3360. It's always recommended to call ahead, especially to check road conditions and any fire restrictions before your visit, as these can change rapidly in mountain environments.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For Utah locals, Warner Campground is more than just a place to camp; it's an essential part of the Utah outdoor experience, offering a unique high-altitude escape from the state's often intense summer heat. Having been a cherished retreat for over 40 years, it holds a special place in the hearts of many, serving as the perfect cool-down spot after adventurous days in the heat of Arches or Canyonlands National Parks. Its location high in the La Sal Mountains provides not only a dramatic change in scenery but also a refreshing climate, making it an ideal summer sanctuary.

The blend of rustic charm with essential amenities, coupled with abundant recreational opportunities like hiking, fishing, and kayaking on Warner Lake, makes it incredibly appealing. Locals can easily make it a weekend getaway or a longer family vacation, knowing they’ll find a serene and beautiful environment. The chance to explore extensive trail systems, witness spectacular autumn colors, and gaze at incredibly dark, star-filled skies adds immense value. Despite the potentially challenging drive up, the reward of reaching this "heaven on earth" is undeniable. Warner Campground offers an authentic taste of Utah's diverse natural beauty, allowing locals to reconnect with the mountains, cool off, and create cherished memories in a truly unparalleled setting.