Dead Horse Point State Park
Sleeping on the Edge: Camping at Dead Horse Point State Park
Our camping trip to Dead Horse Point State Park in Utah was an experience in high-desert solitude and spectacular scenery. Located near Moab, the park sits on a narrow peninsula of rock that towers 2,000 feet above the Colorado River. While the name comes from a tragic legend about wild mustangs, the reality of the park today is pure beauty.
A Campsite with a View
We stayed at the Kayenta Campground, and it was easily one of the best campsites we’ve ever had. In a landscape that can be harsh, the site was perfectly appointed with a nice shelter to shade our picnic table and electricity/water hookups (a luxury in such a remote area!).
But the real amenity was the landscape itself. We were surrounded by ancient twisted juniper trees and red sand, with a view that was simply breathtaking. Walking just a few steps from our tent offered a panorama of the vast canyon layers—red, orange, and purple rock stretching as far as the eye could see.
Wandering the Rim
During the day, we took advantage of the miles of hiking trails that weave along the cliff edge. We explored the Rim Trail, which offers constant, dizzying views of the river gooseneck far below. The geology here is mesmerizing; the cliffs are made of Wingate Sandstone, which forms those sheer vertical walls, sitting on top of the sloping Chinle Formation. It felt like walking on the roof of the world.
A Window to the Universe
The highlight of the trip came after the sun went down. Dead Horse Point was designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2016, making it one of the best places in the world to stargaze.
We joined a ranger-led night program, which was absolutely fascinating. The lack of light pollution meant the sky was an explosion of stars. The ranger used a high-powered green laser pointer to trace out the constellations for us—it looked like he was literally drawing on the sky.
They also had telescopes set up, allowing us to see planets with incredible clarity. Standing in the silent darkness of the desert, was a humbling and magical experience.
A High-Point of the Year
Camping at Dead Horse Point wasn't just a place to stay the night; it was about immersing ourselves in a landscape that feels ancient and vast. Between the comfortable campsite, the red rock trails, and the guided tour of the galaxy, it was an unforgettable adventure.
