We used it as a base for Arches and had a great time. Spectacular scenery. Camping sites are fairly exposed to sun and wind. We were there in early June and had 110 temps and 50 mph winds. Parents were taking their kids out of their tents and making them sleep in cars. We loved the dark skies sunrises and sunsets. As others have said leave DHP early enough to get to Arches before the crowds. Actually, plan to leave DHP early enough to watch the sunrise from within Arches.

Yes it’s close and another benefit is that it’s higher than Moab, so cooler by 7-10 degrees. If you book at exactly 8am mtn time, you should be able to get a site. There are many more sites up there so it won’t fill as fast, but again book at 8am. For Devils Garden, you should use wanderinglabs.com to see if any sites open, but still book at DHP just in case. You can always cancel. Horsethief CG is up there too, but not as nice in my opinion and doesn’t accept reservations (and has flies in the summer). The sunrises and sunsets from the rim are amazing as well as the views. Hike the trail along the rim on both sides for some amazing views of the river valley.

We did use it as a base for Arches, but you need to get an early start since the Arches entrance is just over 30 minutes away and that park gets very busy. DHP is much closer to Canyonlands (Island in the Sky District). We booked our reservation in April exactly 4 months in advance (the first day of availability) within the first minute of the reservation system opening, which is typically what is necessary for any popular state or federal parks.

It’s only about 30 miles to Arches so that is easily doable. The road is fine to travel and as I remember one lane in each direction. We have camped in both the State Park and Devils Garden. Both are nice campgrounds.

Yes, we used it as a base for the entire Moab area. Try to get your reservation in the newer campground if you can. We were there in September and had no difficulty getting in.