About Gold Bar Group Sites
Overview The four group sites at Gold Bar are located along the Colorado River and are ideal for large gatherings such as school groups or family reunions. Within close proximity to national parks and open space, outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, and four-wheel drive tours in the surrounding area. The town of Moab is approximately 15 minutes away and has dining, shopping, sports rentals, tour companies and museums. Recreation There is a boat ramp located at Gold Bar giving access to the Colorado River. The group sites are close to the trailhead for Corona Arch and numerous hiking and four-wheel drive roads. Both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks are nearby.Facilities Group areas have fire grates, picnic tables, vault toilets and sites A, B, and C have shade shelters. Site B has a hammock structure that can accomodate numerous hammocks. Site D does not have a shade shelter, but is ideal for groups with motorhomes. The group sites do not have water, dump stations or electric hook-ups. Trailer and RV Parking is limited as sites are meant for tent camping. Natural Features The group sites at Gold Bar are located on the Colorado River and provide for striking views of the red rock canyons and mesas. Nearby Attractions Scenic Highway 279 parallels the Colorado River. There are numerous opportunities for hiking, biking, rock climbing, and four-wheeling. Arches and Canyonlands National Parks and Dead Horse State Park are nearby as well as the Manti-La Sal National Forest and the La Sal Mountain Loop Road, which offer cooler temperatures. Charges & Cancellations Please contact the BLM Moab Field Office for assistance with changes and cancellations at 435-259-2100. Changes You can make changes to a reservation through your online Recreation.gov user account any time prior to the arrival/first date of the reservation. There is a $10 change fee If you wish to change to dates entirely outside of the original reservation dates. There
How to Get There
From Moab, drive five miles north on Hwy 191 to the intersection with Hwy 279. Turn left/west on Hwy 279 and drive ten miles to the campground entrance road.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
- 🩳
Light shorts/skirt
Loose-fit, breathable.
- 🧢
Wide-brimmed sun hat
Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
- 🕶
Polarized sunglasses
Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 9)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Gold Bar Group Sites
Heading to Gold Bar Group Sites? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Gold Bar Group Sites?
No central reservation system listed for Gold Bar Group Sites. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/251843) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Gold Bar Group Sites?
From Moab, drive five miles north on Hwy 191 to the intersection with Hwy 279. Turn left/west on Hwy 279 and drive ten miles to the campground entrance road.
How do I contact Gold Bar Group Sites?
You can reach the park at phone: 435-259-2100 or email: blm_ut_moabgroupsite@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
