By:
Submission
Murphy Point Overlook is available as an At-Large Backpacking Zone and is only available by permit to 1 group at a time. You may obtain a permit by going to https://www.recreation.gov/permits/4675315
There are no established campsites. It is essential that you choose an area on bare rock, in a sandy wash, or other areas devoid of biological soil crusts. You must locate your campsite at least 1 mile from a road, and at least 300 feet away from an archeological site, historic site, or water source.
Water is a limiting factor for most backcountry trips in Canyonlands. There are a few springs scattered throughout the park, mostly in canyon bottoms. In some large areas, such as The Grabens at The Needles and the entire White Rim bench at Island in the Sky, there are no reliable water sources. Obtaining drinking water from the Colorado or Green rivers is difficult as the water is very silty and hard to purify.
We encourage backpacking groups to pack in water whenever possible. Many springs marked on topographic maps may no longer exist or may dry up during periods of drought.
Find additional information here: https://www.nps.gov/cany/planyourvisit/backcountrypermits.htm
Well worth the drive past the Arches, spent a night back country camping just near the overlook. Highly recommend.
Awesome place. To me the best of canyonland ntl park. The hike is well worth it, and you can even go a bit deeper to get even more beautiful pictures.
