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Established Camping

Colton Guard Station

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Colton Guard Station is located in Ashley National Forest, featuring forested terrain with nearby mountains. The area experiences temperature highs around 85°F in summer and lows near 10°F in winter. Visitors can explore Dinosaur National Monument and Red Fleet State Park, both offering unique natural attractions.

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Location

Colton Guard Station is located in Utah

Detail location of campground

Directions

Follow the mileage indications below and look for signs when traveling to Colton Guard Station. Leave with plenty of time to arrive at the guard station before dark. From Vernal, travel north on U.S. Highway 191/Vernal Avenue for approximately 20 miles. Turn left (west) on Forest Road 020. A paved parking lot with a restroom is located at the intersection. Continue northwest on the paved Forest Road 020 for approximately two miles. Turn left (southwest) at Forest Road 019 and continue for less than a mile, reaching an intersection (Forest roads 028 and 019). Turn left, continuing south on Forest Road 019. Continue approximately 1.75 miles, where the road turns sharply to the right (west). Follow the hairpin turn down into a ravine to Colton Guard Station.

Address

355 N Vernal Ave
Vernal, UT 84078

Coordinates

40.6672222 N
109.5186111 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
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Site Types

  • Cabins

Features

For Campers

  • Reservable
  • Pets
  • Fires

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General Info

Reservations


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1 Review

Reviewed Sep. 22, 2016

A weekend snowshoe into Colton Gaurd Station, Ashley National Forest, UT.

Last spring we snowshoed into the Colton Guard Station. What a fun experience! It's about a five mile snowshoe from Highway 40. There is a gate in the winter preventing you from going any further than the parking lot on Forest Road 020. There is a cabin and bunkhouse on the complex, both with wood burning stoves (wood provided). The cabin has a set of twin bunk beds, and a futon that folds out. The bunk house has several twin beds with mattresses. There is an old outhouse that you can use in the winter (no running water to the guard station that time of year). We had so much fun playing games by the warmth of the wood burning stove and sledding down the surrounding hills. Our four legged friend enjoyed being able to accompany us on our adventure. Remember to bring your own bedding and water.

  • Review photo of Colton Guard Station by Amanda B., September 22, 2016
  • Review photo of Colton Guard Station by Amanda B., September 22, 2016

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Colton Guard Station located near Vernal, Utah?

Colton Guard Station is located in the Ashley National Forest near Vernal, Utah. The guard station is accessible via Forest Road 020, which connects to Highway 40. During summer months, the road provides direct vehicle access to the property. In winter, visitors must park at the gated entrance to FR 020 and travel the remaining five miles to the cabin by snowshoe or ski, making it a relatively remote forest destination.

How do I reserve the Colton Guard Station cabin in Vernal, Utah?

Reservations for Colton Guard Station can be made through Recreation.gov or by contacting the Ashley National Forest office. The cabin is a popular destination, especially for winter activities, so booking well in advance is recommended. The guard station consists of both a cabin and bunkhouse. During winter months, access is limited as Forest Road 020 is gated, requiring visitors to snowshoe or ski approximately five miles from Highway 40 to reach the cabin.

What outdoor activities can I do while staying at Colton Guard Station?

Winter visitors to Colton Guard Station can enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, with the five-mile journey from Highway 40 to the cabin being a highlight adventure in itself. The surrounding Ashley National Forest offers excellent terrain for these snow activities. During warmer months, the area provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, and exploring the natural forest landscape. The remote setting makes it ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature with various seasonal recreational possibilities.

What amenities are available at the Colton Guard Station cabin?

The Colton Guard Station features both a cabin and a separate bunkhouse on the property. These structures provide basic shelter accommodations for visitors looking to experience this rustic forest setting. The facilities are fairly primitive, so guests should come prepared with necessary supplies. While the cabin offers protection from the elements, visitors should plan to bring their own bedding, food, cooking equipment, and other essentials for a comfortable stay.