Green River State Park Utah

Your Moab Adventure Base
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Green River State Park

If you are planning a visit to Moab and want a peaceful, shaded place to camp, launch a river trip, or simply reset between big desert adventures, Green River State Park is a smart stop. This guide shows you exactly how to visit Green River State Park, what to expect when you arrive, and how to plan a smooth, enjoyable trip.

You will learn everything you need to plan a visit, from camping and reservations to entrance fees, best times to go, insider local tips, safety notes, and how this relaxed riverside park fits into a Moab-centered vacation. As a Moab local who spends every week hiking, biking, rafting, and exploring, I’ll help you plan this with real, on-the-ground insight.

What Green River State Park Is

Green River State Park sits along the banks of the Green River in the town of Green River, Utah. It is a quiet, well-maintained riverside park known for its cottonwood-shaded campground, boat launch, nine-hole golf course, and calm atmosphere. It is one of the most convenient places to start or finish river trips on the Green River, especially for canyons downstream toward Labyrinth Canyon or Stillwater Canyon.

Why It Is a Great Choice for Moab Travelers

Even though it is not directly inside Moab, Green River State Park plays an important role in many Moab itineraries.

It matters because:

  • It is roughly an hour from Moab, making it an easy base for exploring the region.

  • It offers shade, grass, and quiet nights, which can feel like a welcome contrast to the busier Moab campgrounds.

  • The boat launch is a major advantage for rafting and kayaking adventures.

  • You can arrive here, rest under cottonwoods, then head into Moab refreshed and ready for red rock exploration.

  • It is close to the San Rafael Swell, a huge bonus for adventurers who want more than Moab’s classic hikes.

What to Expect

Green River State Park offers a relaxed, family-friendly, beginner-friendly camping experience. Expect cottonwood shade, green lawns, paved loops, and easy river access.

The Experience in Detail

  • Shaded tent sites and RV sites with water and electric hookups

  • A comfortable, green campground environment uncommon in the desert

  • A boat launch directly into the Green River

  • Flush restrooms and showers

  • Picnic areas and a small golf course

  • Easy access from Interstate 70

  • Quiet, laid-back vibes rather than high-energy Moab crowds

Even on hotter summer days, the shaded areas create a more comfortable atmosphere than many desert campgrounds.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall are ideal, with warm days and comfortable nights. Summer is hot but manageable thanks to shade. Winter is quiet and peaceful, though nights can be cold.

Best Time of Day

  • Morning: calm river reflections and cool air

  • Late afternoon: soft golden light through cottonwoods

  • Midday: hottest time, best spent relaxing in the shade

Seasonal Considerations

  • Spring brings comfortable temperatures and occasional wind

  • Summer is hot, so bring shade gear and plan activities early or late

  • Fall is scenic with mild days

  • Winter is open and quiet but chilly at night

Difficulty Level / Who It’s Best For

Green River State Park is perfect for:

  • Beginner campers

  • Families

  • RV travelers

  • River runners launching multi-day trips

  • Adventure travelers mixing Moab activities with river time

  • Anyone craving a quiet, green place to decompress between big desert days

How Long to Stay

  • One night is perfect for a simple rest day

  • Two or three nights if combining with Moab, San Rafael Swell, or a river trip

  • Launch-day overnighters often stay here the night before floating the river

Terrain, Conditions, and Environment

  • Cottonwoods, lawns, and riverbank atmosphere

  • Paved campground loops

  • Desert surroundings with river corridor greenery

  • Strong sun in summer

  • Occasional wind and river humidity

Directions

From Moab, drive north toward Interstate 70 and continue west to the town of Green River. The park is inside town limits, just minutes from the interstate exit. Signage leads directly to the park entrance, boat launch, and campground loops.

Parking and Access

Parking is plentiful for cars, RVs, and river-trip trailers. The boat ramp has dedicated trailer parking. The campground roads are easy to navigate for larger rigs.

Camping and Reservations

Green River State Park offers:

  • Tent sites

  • RV sites with water and electric hookups

  • A few small cabins or tiny-home-style rentals

  • Modern restrooms and showers

  • Shaded lawns suitable for tents

Reservations typically open on a four-month rolling window. Peak seasons fill quickly, especially spring and fall. Arrival earlier in the day gives you the best experience settling into your campsite.

Entrance Fee

  • Day-use fee is roughly seven dollars per vehicle

  • Camping fees include the day-use charge
    Fees may vary by season or state updates, so check ahead if you want current totals.

What to Bring

Bring:

  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat

  • Plenty of drinking water

  • Shade canopy for summer

  • Layers for chilly evenings

  • Bug spray

  • River gear if launching

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • A camera for riverside sunsets

  • A cooler for drinks and food

Insider Local Tips

  • Arrive earlier in the day to enjoy the shade and settle in before the heat peaks

  • Treat this park as your “calm day” between Moab adventure days

  • Walk down to the riverbank at sunrise for astonishing reflections

  • If launching a river trip, organize your gear the evening before for a smoother morning push-off

  • Green River has a handful of classic small-town restaurants and melon stands in season

Mistakes to Avoid

  • Assuming every site has full shade

  • Arriving late on busy weekends without a reservation

  • Underestimating summer heat

  • Forgetting to coordinate shuttle logistics for river trips

  • Ignoring the need for hydration even on cooler days

Weather Considerations for the Moab Region

Green River shares the high desert climate of Moab:

  • Hot summers with strong UV exposure

  • Mild spring and fall

  • Cold winter nights

  • Sudden wind or storm bursts

  • Dry air that accelerates dehydration

Plan shade and hydration carefully.

Safety Notes

  • Always wear a life vest when launching or boating

  • Stay hydrated

  • Watch for slippery riverbanks

  • Secure tents and gear in windy conditions

  • Follow all fire restrictions

  • Be mindful of wildlife around the river corridor

When This Is the Best Choice vs Alternatives

Choose Green River State Park when you want:

  • Shade and grass rather than dry red rock

  • A quieter campground than Moab

  • A convenient river launch site

  • A relaxing reset day

  • An easy stop on a long Utah road trip

Choose something else when:

  • You want to be in the center of Moab’s restaurants and trailheads

  • You need full wilderness solitude

  • You prefer dispersed camping far from town services

If You Only Remember One Thing

Green River State Park gives you calm shade, river access, and comfort within an hour of Moab. It is the perfect place to let your body reset before tackling more desert adventures.

Local Tip

Take a slow stroll to the river at sunrise. It is one of the most peaceful moments you can experience on the edge of the desert.

Pro Tip

If you’re launching a river trip, pack and rig your gear the evening before. You’ll start your float smoother and with far less stress.

FAQ

What are the hours for Green River State Park?
The park is open year-round. Typical summer hours run from early morning until about ten at night. Winter hours may vary slightly.

How do I make reservations?
Reservations can be made through the Utah State Parks reservation system, usually on a four-month rolling schedule.

What is the entrance fee?
The day-use fee is generally around seven dollars per vehicle. Camping fees include this cost.

Are there RV hookups?
Yes. Several sites offer water and electric hookups for RVs.

Can I launch a raft or kayak here?
Yes. The park has a well-maintained boat ramp that serves as a popular launch point for river trips.

Is this a good stop for families?
Definitely. The shade, lawns, and calm environment make it great for kids, beginners, and travelers who want a restful place to recharge.

What’s the best time of year to visit?
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather. Summer is hot but manageable with shade. Winter is quiet but cold at night.