Lack of water is a limiting factor, and hikers may have to carry their own supply. Pets are not allowed on hiking trails. Permits are required for all overnight trips, and advance reservations are recommended. No permit is required for day hiking. There are developed campgrounds in both the Needles and Island in the Sky districts of the park.
Campground sites have picnic tables, fire pits and toilet facilities nearby.
There are no showers. Primitive backcountry sites accessible by foot or four-wheel drive are also available. Mountain Biking Canyonlands is famous for its mountain biking terrain, especially for the 100-mile White Rim Road at the Island in the Sky. Permits for the White Rim should be reserved in advance as sites are limited. Overnight trips require backcountry permits.