Planning a trip to Arches National Park? You're likely picturing stunning rock formations, breathtaking sunsets, and maybe even a glimpse of the Milky Way. But what if your travel partner's idea of "roughing it" is vastly different from yours? That's exactly what happened when David, a data analyst and Leave No Trace devotee, convinced Sarah, a lawyer with a penchant for luxury travel, to spend three nights at Devils Garden Campground in Arches National Park. Here's our honest review, filled with stargazing, composting toilets, and a whole lot of compromise.

Reaching Arches: The Scenic Route (with a Detour)

Getting to Arches isn't always a breeze. Our initial plan was to fly directly into Moab Canyonlands Field Airport, but limited flight options from Denver forced us to fly into Salt Lake City instead. This added a four-hour drive to our adventure. While the scenery was spectacular, it made us ponder whether we should have just opted for a trip to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. That location would have offered more flight options and a significantly shorter drive. This detour definitely increased the overall trip cost, something to keep in mind while planning your own Arches adventure.

Once we arrived, we faced another hurdle: the timed entry system. Arches National Park requires reservations for entry during peak season. We successfully secured our timed entry but quickly learned that parking at Devils Garden trailhead is extremely limited. Fortunately, the park's shuttle system was efficient, and we were able to reach the campground without too much hassle. Definitely book your timed entry well in advance!

Devils Garden Campground: A Rustic Oasis

Devils Garden Campground is the only campground located inside Arches National Park, making it incredibly convenient for exploring the park's iconic trails. However, be prepared for a rustic experience. One of the biggest adjustments for Sarah was the lack of showers and the presence of waterless composting toilets.

David, ever mindful of water conservation, meticulously minimized his water usage. Sarah, on the other hand, relied on "bird baths" and dry shampoo to survive. The composting toilets, while eco-friendly, took some getting used to. They were surprisingly clean and odor-free, but definitely a far cry from the luxurious hotel bathrooms Sarah is accustomed to.

Composting Toilets: A necessary evil?

The use of composting toilets at Devils Garden is a key part of the park's sustainability efforts. While they help conserve water, they might be a shock to some campers. Be prepared to adjust your expectations and embrace the eco-friendly approach. It's worth remembering that every little bit helps to preserve this incredible landscape.

Stargazing Spectacle (and a Cold Skeptic)

The primary reason for our trip was the promise of incredible stargazing. Arches National Park is renowned for its dark skies, making it an ideal location for astrophotography. David, armed with his Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer star tracker and a Sony a7S III camera with a 24mm f/1.4 GM lens, was in his element.

Sarah, however, was less enthusiastic. While David was busy setting up his equipment and meticulously calibrating his star tracker, Sarah was battling the cold. "Okay, David, I appreciate the dark sky, but my toes are numb. Is there any chance we can at least pretend to be comfortable?"

The temperature swings in early October were significant. During the day, we enjoyed temperatures around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, but at night, they plummeted to 40 degrees. This made packing a challenge, requiring us to bring both lightweight clothing and heavy layers.

David, completely absorbed in capturing the cosmos, declared, "The Milky Way is nature's greatest light show, and we're lucky to witness it. But let's make sure our headlamps don't ruin it for everyone else."

Light Pollution Woes

Unfortunately, our stargazing experience wasn't entirely perfect. Another camper's bright lantern cast an annoying glow across the landscape, ruining several of David's astrophotography shots. This highlighted the importance of respecting dark sky etiquette and minimizing light pollution while camping.

Leave No Trace vs. Luxury: Finding a Balance

David's commitment to Leave No Trace principles was unwavering. He meticulously packed out all trash, used Campsuds biodegradable soap for dishes, and carefully managed our campfire, using only dead and down wood and keeping the fire small and contained.

Sarah, however, questioned the effectiveness of biodegradable soap in the desert environment and longed for the convenience of disposable plates and cutlery. While she appreciated the intention behind Leave No Trace, she also valued comfort and convenience.

The tension between these two perspectives was a recurring theme throughout our trip. We eventually found a compromise, using reusable dishes but opting for pre-packaged snacks to minimize food waste. Communication and understanding were key to navigating these differences.

Tips for Couples with Different Travel Styles Camping in Arches National Park

Camping as a couple, especially when you have different travel styles, requires planning, communication, and a healthy dose of compromise. Here are three actionable tips to help you successfully camp together in Arches National Park:

1. Set Expectations Beforehand: Discuss your priorities and comfort levels before you even start packing. What activities are most important to each of you? What level of discomfort are you willing to tolerate? Having these conversations upfront can prevent misunderstandings and resentment later on.

2. Pack Items That Cater to Both Individuals' Needs: Sarah invested in a heated blanket and portable power bank to manage the cold nights, while David had extra batteries for his camera equipment. Bring items that enhance both comfort and enjoyment of activities.

3. Dedicate Time for Individual Activities and Shared Experiences: One afternoon, David went on a solo hike to capture landscape photos, while Sarah relaxed at the campsite with a book. Make sure to carve out time for both individual pursuits and shared adventures. This allows each person to feel fulfilled and prevents one partner from feeling like they're sacrificing their own interests.

Conclusion: Arches - A Test of Wills and a Feast for the Eyes

Our trip to Devils Garden Campground was a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rustic camping conditions, and contrasting travel styles. While Sarah may not be trading her luxury hotel stays for composting toilets anytime soon, she gained a newfound appreciation for the night sky and the importance of Leave No Trace principles. David, in turn, learned to appreciate the value of a warm blanket and a little bit of comfort in the wilderness. Arches National Park is an amazing destination, but camping there as a couple with different needs definitely requires patience, communication, and a willingness to compromise.

Ready to book your own Arches adventure? Remember to secure your timed entry and camping reservations well in advance! National Park Service Reservations Check out more Vistalocation articles on camping tips and destinations: Vistalocation.com