RV & camping guide

Goblin Valley by RV

1 h 45 min from CNYCamping score 8/10

Trip snapshot

Arrival airport
CNY
Airport drive
1 h 45 min · estimate
Suggested stay
1–2 days
Reservation demand
Moderate · check entry notes
Vehicle notes
A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for exploring the surrounding San Rafael Swell, though the main park road is accessible to cars.

Your route

CNY

Canyonlands Regional Airport

Goblin Valley

About 1 h 45 min · 85 mi by car, no stops. Estimate only.

Vehicle & road notes

Which vehicle

A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for exploring the surrounding San Rafael Swell, though the main park road is accessible to cars.

parking

Main Overlook Capacity

The primary parking area near the goblins can fill during spring break and autumn weekends. Arrive before 10 AM to secure a spot near the valley stairs.

signal

Remote Desert Dead Zones

Expect zero cellular reception once you turn off the main highway toward the park. A physical map or offline GPS is essential for navigating the San Rafael Swell area.

fuel

Last Chance Supplies

Fuel and groceries are unavailable at the park; the closest reliable services are in Hanksville or Green River. Check your gauges before departing these towns for the desert.

Campground reservations

State Park Entry and Yurt Reservations

Entry is managed by Utah State Parks and may require a day-use fee at the gate. Overnight stays in the limited park yurts or developed campground should be booked months in advance via the official state portal to guarantee a spot in this remote desert location.

Official source

2 · Choose a motorhome or campervan

Fleet rentals from established depots. Compare pick-up cities against your flight.

Prefer a car and campground trip?

3 · Where to park the rig near Goblin Valley

Private campgrounds and RV parks outside the park, plus overnight stops for members.

Your route

  1. Day 1 · Introduction to the Goblins

    Valley of Goblins → Observation Point

  2. Day 2 · High Desert Benches

    Curtis Bench Trail → Carmel Canyon

  3. Day 3 · San Rafael Swell Exploration

    Little Wild Horse Canyon → Bell Canyon

Viator

Tours & experiences near Goblin Valley

Explore guided activities around Goblin Valley. Check the meeting point, dates and availability on Viator before booking.

Open tour listings separately

Curated Trip Essentials

Five picks for Goblin Valley

Optional picks, not a complete packing or safety list. Photos from the ROCKBROS and WILDGUARDER stores. Prices as of 2026-10-19 / 2026-10-20; price, stock and shipping may change.

Quick answers

Can I take an RV to Goblin Valley?

Yes, Goblin Valley is a good fit for camping trips. Check vehicle length limits on park roads and campgrounds before you book, and plan fuel stops on remote stretches.

Where do I pick up an RV for Goblin Valley?

The nearest airport is Canyonlands Regional Airport (CNY), about 1 h 45 min away by car. Rental depots are usually in larger cities, so compare pick-up points before booking flights.

Do campgrounds near Goblin Valley need reservations?

Entry is managed by Utah State Parks and may require a day-use fee at the gate. Overnight stays in the limited park yurts or developed campground should be booked months in advance via the official state portal to guarantee a spot in this remote desert location.

Full guideStays, day-by-day plan and route map for Goblin Valley