Island in the Sky (Willow Flat) Campground
The Quick Take
Willow Flat is the kind of campground that rewards self-sufficiency. With only a dozen sites perched on the Island in the Sky mesa, this is one of the smallest and most exposed campgrounds in Utah's canyon country -- and that's precisely the appeal. There are no showers, no hookups, and critically, no water, so you'll need to haul every drop. What you get in return is a front-row seat to some of the most dramatic desert scenery in the national park system, with the Green River Overlook just a short walk away. The silence up here at night is almost disorienting if you're used to developed campgrounds. At fifteen dollars a night with no reservation games to play, it's a throwback to how camping used to work. Best suited for self-contained travelers who'd rather stare at a thousand-foot canyon than a camp store menu.
Booking
Reserve Your Campsite
All 12 sites are reservable.
What You Get
Sites & Setup
RV Information
RVs allowed. Maximum length: 28 feet. No electrical hookups. Generators permitted during designated hours.
Accessibility
Roadways in the campground are paved, but some slopes may require assistance. Paths around the accessible campsite are paved, with easy access to the picnic table, fire ring and toilet. Paved Roads - All vehicles OK
Rules to Know
- Fires:Wood fires in grates only.
- Generators:Quiet hours: 8 pm to 8 am.
- Checkout:Check-out time: 10 am.
- Occupancy:Maximum occupancy: 10 people, 2 vehicles per campsite.
Pro Tips
Sites fill by mid-morning from March through October, so plan to arrive before 10 am when the previous night's campers check out. If you strike out, Dead Horse Point State Park has a campground about 30 minutes back down UT-313 as a fallback.
The Green River Overlook is less than a mile from camp and faces west -- bring a chair and catch sunset there instead of fighting for parking at Grand View Point with the day-trippers. It's one of the best sunset viewpoints in the entire park.
Pack at least two gallons of water per person per day and bring your own firewood -- gathering is prohibited and the nearest store is back in Moab, a solid 45-minute drive. The visitor center has a water spigot during the warmer months, but don't count on it as your only source.
Photos
NPS / Chris Wonderly
NPS Photo / Chris Wonderly
NPS / Chris WonderlyGetting There
Directions
Turn on UT 313, approximately 10 miles north of Moab or 22 miles south of I-70. Follow the road 22 miles to the entrance to Canyonlands National Park - Island in the Sky district. Continue on the park road approximately 7 miles. Make a right turn toward Upheaval Dome, and follow signs to the campground.
Get directions