Choosing the right place to stay near Arches National Park can enhance your trip, providing easy access to stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you prefer a hotel in Moab, a scenic lodge along Highway 128, or a budget-friendly stay in nearby towns, this guide covers the best areas and accommodations to fit your travel style and budget.
Best Areas to Stay Near Arches
Choosing the right area to stay near Arches National Park can significantly enhance your visit. While Moab is the most popular option, other locations offer unique advantages depending on your travel preferences. Below are the best areas to stay, each with its own set of benefits.
Downtown Moab
Moab is the closest town to Arches National Park, located just 5 miles from the park entrance. This area is ideal for travelers who want convenience, easy access to restaurants, and a variety of accommodation options.
Pros:
- Wide range of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals
- Numerous dining and shopping options
- Close proximity to Arches and other attractions like Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park
- Availability of tour operators and outdoor gear shops
Cons:
- Higher prices, especially during peak season
- Can be busy and crowded, particularly in spring and fall
Highway 191 Corridor
This area includes accommodations along U.S. Highway 191, stretching between Moab and Arches National Park. It offers a mix of chain hotels and locally-owned lodgings that provide easy access to the park.
Pros:
- Convenient location between the park and Moab
- Often more availability compared to downtown Moab
- Good balance between accessibility and affordability
Cons:
- Limited dining and entertainment options within walking distance
- Some properties may lack unique character compared to Moab’s boutique hotels
Scenic Route Accommodations
For those looking for a quieter stay, accommodations along scenic routes like Utah State Route 128 (River Road) provide a more secluded, nature-immersed experience. Many lodges and resorts here offer stunning views of the Colorado River and red rock formations.
Pros:
- Beautiful, peaceful setting with scenic views
- Unique lodging options, including cabins and resorts
- Ideal for travelers seeking a more relaxed and immersive experience
Cons:
- Further from town amenities and restaurants
- Limited accommodation choices compared to Moab
Alternative Nearby Towns
If Moab is fully booked or you prefer a less touristy area, nearby towns like Green River and Monticello offer additional options.
- Green River (50 miles from Arches) – A budget-friendly alternative with a few hotels and motels, though it requires a longer drive to the park.
- Monticello (55 miles from Arches) – A quieter town with affordable lodging, best suited for those combining a visit to Arches with other southeastern Utah destinations.
Pros:
- Lower accommodation costs compared to Moab
- Less crowded, offering a more relaxed atmosphere
Cons:
- Longer drive times to Arches National Park
- Limited dining and activity options
By selecting the best area based on your priorities—whether it’s convenience, affordability, or scenery—you can optimize your visit to Arches National Park and make the most of your stay.
Types of Accommodations
When visiting Arches National Park, travelers have a variety of accommodation options to choose from, ranging from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly camping sites. The choice depends on factors such as budget, preferred amenities, and proximity to the park. Below are the primary types of accommodations available near Arches National Park.
Hotels and Motels
Hotels and motels are among the most popular lodging options for visitors to Arches National Park. The city of Moab, located just a few miles from the park entrance, offers a wide selection of accommodations, from high-end resorts to budget motels.
- Luxury Hotels – These offer premium amenities such as on-site dining, spa services, swimming pools, and guided tour bookings. Examples include the Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton, and Sorrel River Ranch Resort.
- Mid-Range Hotels – Ideal for travelers seeking comfort without excessive costs, mid-range hotels provide amenities like free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and convenient access to the park. Popular choices include Moab Springs Ranch and Best Western Plus Canyonlands Inn.
- Budget Motels – For travelers looking to save money, many motels offer basic lodging with essential amenities. Examples include the Adventure Inn Moab and the Bowen Motel.
Vacation Rentals
Vacation rentals offer a home-like experience, making them ideal for families, large groups, or travelers looking for extended stays. Many rentals include full kitchens, laundry facilities, and private outdoor spaces. Options range from cozy cabins to spacious homes with scenic views of the surrounding red rock landscapes.
- Cabins & Cottages – Rustic yet comfortable, these accommodations provide a more secluded experience. Some are located on private land, offering tranquility away from busy tourist areas.
- Condos & Homes – Ideal for families or groups, these properties come with multiple bedrooms and full amenities for a self-sufficient stay. Many rentals are available through platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo.
Camping and RV Parks
For outdoor enthusiasts who prefer staying close to nature, camping is a great option. There are both developed campgrounds and dispersed camping opportunities near Arches National Park.
- Campgrounds Inside the Park – The Devils Garden Campground is the only designated campground within the park, offering 50 sites surrounded by stunning rock formations. Reservations are required, especially during peak season.
- BLM (Bureau of Land Management) Campgrounds – Several first-come, first-served campgrounds managed by the BLM are available outside the park, such as the Goose Island and Granstaff campgrounds. These sites provide basic amenities like picnic tables and fire pits.
- RV Parks – Moab has multiple RV parks with full hookups, showers, and laundry facilities. Examples include Moab Valley RV Resort & Campground and Canyonlands RV Resort & Campground.
Glamping and Unique Stays
For those seeking a unique and memorable lodging experience, glamping (luxury camping) and other unconventional accommodations are available.
- Glamping Resorts – These offer safari-style tents with comfortable beds, electricity, and sometimes air conditioning. Under Canvas Moab is a popular glamping resort near Arches National Park.
- Yurts & Tiny Homes – Some properties offer yurts or tiny homes for a cozy and eco-friendly stay while still providing modern comforts.
- Ranches & Lodges – Staying at a working ranch or a scenic lodge provides a blend of rustic charm and upscale amenities, such as horseback riding and guided excursions.
Regardless of the type of accommodation chosen, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during the peak season (spring and fall), when Arches National Park experiences high visitor traffic.
Seasonal Considerations
Peak Season Availability
Arches National Park experiences peak visitation from March through October, with the highest number of visitors between April and September. During this time, accommodations in Moab and nearby areas tend to book up quickly, often months in advance. Hotels, motels, and vacation rentals see higher rates due to demand, and campgrounds within the park, such as Devils Garden Campground, require reservations well ahead of time. Visitors planning a trip during peak season should secure their lodging as early as possible to ensure availability and better pricing.
Off-Season Deals
The off-season, primarily from late fall to early spring (November through February), offers budget-conscious travelers an opportunity to find lower accommodation prices. Many hotels and vacation rentals in Moab reduce their rates significantly during this time. Additionally, with fewer tourists in the area, visitors can enjoy a quieter and more relaxed experience both in the park and in town. Some businesses may have reduced hours during the winter, but overall, Moab remains accessible year-round.
Weather Impact on Hotel Choice
The season in which you visit can impact the type of accommodation best suited for your stay. During the hot summer months (June to August), choosing a hotel or rental with air conditioning and access to a swimming pool can enhance comfort. Conversely, in winter, selecting a place with heating and indoor amenities becomes essential. If camping, colder nighttime temperatures from late fall to early spring necessitate appropriate gear for warmth and safety.
Booking Timing Recommendations
To secure the best lodging options at reasonable rates, it is advisable to book accommodations at least three to six months in advance for peak season travel. For off-season visits, last-minute deals are often available, allowing for more flexibility in choosing where to stay. However, travelers should still check availability ahead of time, especially during holiday weekends or special events in Moab, which can draw additional visitors to the area.
Planning Your Stay
Booking Recommendations
When planning your visit to Arches National Park, booking accommodations in advance is highly recommended, especially during the peak tourist season. Hotels, campgrounds, and vacation rentals in Moab and surrounding areas can fill up quickly, so securing reservations several months ahead ensures you get the best options at reasonable rates. Many hotels and rental properties offer early booking discounts, so checking prices and availability as soon as you finalize your trip dates is a smart strategy.
If you plan to camp inside the park, note that Devil’s Garden Campground is the only established campground within Arches National Park, and reservations for peak months (March–October) should be made through Recreation.gov well in advance.
Peak Season Considerations
The busiest time to visit Arches National Park is from March through October, with peak crowds in the summer months of June, July, and August. During this period, accommodations in Moab and nearby areas are in high demand, leading to higher prices and limited availability.
If traveling during peak season, consider staying at accommodations slightly farther from the park entrance, such as in Spanish Valley or along Highway 128, where you may find more availability and slightly lower rates. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can also help you avoid long entrance lines and secure better parking inside the park.
Off-Season Opportunities
For those looking to avoid crowds and enjoy lower accommodation rates, visiting Arches National Park during the off-season (November–February) can be a great option. While temperatures can be cooler, the park remains open year-round, and many hotels in Moab offer off-season discounts. Additionally, winter visits provide a unique and quieter experience, with stunning snow-capped rock formations and fewer tourists.
However, travelers should be aware that some businesses in Moab may operate with reduced hours or close temporarily during the colder months. Checking ahead for availability of restaurants and services can help ensure a smooth stay.
Length of Stay Suggestions
The ideal length of stay at Arches National Park depends on the type of experience you’re looking for:
- One day: Perfect for a quick visit, hitting highlights like Delicate Arch, The Windows, and Balanced Rock.
- Two to three days: Allows time for more in-depth exploration, including hikes to Devil’s Garden and Landscape Arch, as well as time for nearby attractions like Canyonlands National Park.
- Four or more days: Ideal for adventurers who want to explore Arches at a relaxed pace, enjoy off-the-beaten-path areas, and experience additional outdoor activities like rafting, mountain biking, or off-road tours in the Moab area.
Transportation Options
Getting to and around Arches National Park requires careful planning, as there is no public transportation inside the park.
- Rental Cars: Most visitors opt for a rental car, as it provides the flexibility to explore both Arches and nearby attractions like Dead Horse Point State Park and Canyonlands National Park.
- Shuttle & Tour Services: While Arches does not have a public shuttle system, several private tour operators in Moab offer guided park tours with transportation included.
- Biking: For experienced cyclists, biking into the park can be an option, though the desert heat and steep inclines can make it challenging.
- Airport Access: The nearest airport is Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY), located about 18 miles from Moab. Larger airports, such as Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) or Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT), offer more flight options and are within driving distance.
By carefully planning your stay, considering the best season for your visit, and selecting the right accommodation and transportation options, you can maximize your experience at Arches National Park.
Selecting the best place to stay for Arches National Park depends on your budget, travel style, and preference for convenience or seclusion. Moab remains the top choice for proximity, while Highway 191 and alternative towns offer good alternatives. By planning ahead, especially during peak season, you can secure the best accommodations and enjoy an unforgettable adventure in this breathtaking national park. Book your stay today and start exploring Arches!