Affordable Camping with Incredible Views Near Arches & Canyonlands
If you’re looking for budget-friendly camping near Moab, Utah, Ken’s Lake Campground is a hidden gem managed by the BLM (Bureau of Land Management). With stunning red rock views, easy access to outdoor recreation, and proximity to two national parks, it’s a fantastic option for boondockers, RVers, and tent campers alike.
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Location
Ken’s Lake Campground is located just 10 miles south of Moab, Utah. The area is surrounded by dramatic red rock fins to the east, sagebrush flats to the south and west, and Ken’s Lake reservoir to the north. From your site, you’ll also catch breathtaking views of the La Sal Mountains and the Moab Rim.
Prices & Discounts
- Standard campsites: $22 per night
- 50% discount for holders of the Senior, Golden Age, or Access Pass
- Note: Discounts apply only to recreation fees—not to reservation or service fees
Reservations
From March 1 to November 15, individual sites are reservable through Recreation.gov. Any unreserved sites are first-come, first-served—but be aware, they fill up fast!
We saw multiple folks drive through looking for a site, only to find everything already reserved despite some appearing empty.
Check availability and photos of each site at CampgroundViews.com to help pick the best one for your setup.
Our Review of Ken’s Lake Campground
We stayed for 7 nights in Site 21, which was flat, spacious, and had great separation from neighboring sites—perfect for our 38′ Class A motorhome and toad (Jeep Wrangler). The campground offers:
- Gravel pads
- Picnic tables
- Fire pits
- Stunning views in all directions
Loop A, where we stayed, is great for big rigs but lacks shade. Loop B is more shaded with juniper and cottonwood trees, but is tighter and better suited for smaller RVs or tents.
A Word of Caution:
Not all sites are level or large—some are sloped and tight. Be sure to review the site specs (length, driveway grade, surface, tent pad, etc.) before booking on Recreation.gov.
Pets and Cacti
Dogs must be leashed, and you’ll want to be cautious anyway—small cacti are scattered around the campground and can pose a real hazard to curious pups.
Phone and Internet Service
- Verizon MiFi: 2 bars — good enough to stream Netflix occasionally on our Fire Stick
- T-Mobile: 2 bars (decent for calls and light browsing)
Mail/Package Service
We didn’t need mail while in Moab, but General Delivery at the Moab Post Office is likely your best bet if needed.
Things to Do Near Ken’s Lake Campground
Jeep & OHV Trails
Moab is an off-road lover’s dream. While in town, we hit a couple of easier trails:
- Shafer Trail – Amazing views, beginner-friendly
- Gemini Bridges OHV Trail – A scenic and fun ride
The Steel Bender Jeep Safari Route passes right by the campground, making it easy to jump into the action.
Hiking & Outdoor Activities
- 3+ miles of trails around Ken’s Lake, Faux Falls, and viewpoints of Moab Valley and the La Sal Mountains
- Horseback riding
- Fishing
- Kayaking & paddleboarding on Ken’s Lake
National & State Parks
- Arches National Park – 20 minutes away
- Canyonlands National Park – 40 minutes
- Dead Horse Point State Park – 35 minutes
Ken’s Lake makes an ideal basecamp for all of Moab’s natural wonders.
Weather Notes
- Elevation: 5,085 ft
- Spring/Fall: Be prepared for cold nights — it snowed on us on April 16!
- Summer: Temps soar from 95°F to 100°F+ — come prepared with shade and water
Final Thoughts
If you want to explore Moab without the high cost of private campgrounds, Ken’s Lake Campground is a fantastic option. It’s scenic, quiet, and close to everything that makes this area so special.
For less than what some RV parks charge for one night, you can camp here for a week. It’s the perfect blend of rugged beauty and basic comfort — especially for boondockers like us.
Have You Camped at Ken’s Lake?
We love finding unique places like this and sharing them with fellow RVers and outdoor enthusiasts. Drop a comment below and let us know your favorite hidden gem campground. If you have any questions, we’d be happy to help!
