Dispersed and established camping options exist throughout Duchesne County, Utah, a region with elevations ranging from 5,000 to over 10,000 feet. Camping spots vary from lakeside areas with fishing access to high mountain locations where temperatures can drop below freezing even in summer months. Most campgrounds around Duchesne open from May through September, with limited facilities available during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Fly fishing spots: The Yellowstone River near Ashley National Forest Riverview Campground offers accessible trout fishing. "We didn't fish, but saw a couple of fly fishers catch 4 trout right in front of us," reports camper Cody W. The river access points are within short walking distance from most campsites.
Rock art exploration: Use Nine Mile Canyon Ranch as your base for exploring ancient petroglyphs. "Very friendly and helpful staff. They'll tell you some of the coolest place to see some graneries hidden up in the rocks built by the indigenous people," notes Semi H. The ranch provides maps to lesser-known archaeological sites throughout the canyon.
Lake activities: At Moon Lake Campground, water recreation options abound despite recent drought conditions. "The lake is pretty low due to the drought, but we had a great time enjoying the water from the shore. We brought kayaks and paddleboards and the water was perfect," shares Shad G. The Moon Lake Lodge rents small fishing boats and kayaks during summer months.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the Duchesne area maintain surprisingly good bathroom facilities. At Soldier Creek, one visitor noted, "Bathrooms were the cleanest I've ever seen a campground bathroom be!" while another camper at Lost Creek Campground mentioned, "The pit toilet was clean, and since I had a water filter, I could pull straight from the creek at my campsite."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to see deer, moose and other wildlife. "We saw several deer throughout the day. There are a few hiking trails and they offer horse rides as well," reports Shad G. about Moon Lake. Another camper at Lost Creek Campground shared, "I heard a pack of wolves howling right around sunset but seemed a decent distance away."
Stargazing conditions: The remote location creates exceptional night sky viewing. "The night sky was amazing, could see the whole milky way galaxy," reports Bharath K. about Riverview Campground. Areas with less tree cover like Strawberry Hideout provide unobstructed views of constellations due to minimal light pollution.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Mountain campgrounds have extremely variable weather. Andy M. warns about Lost Creek: "We went over 4th of July weekend 2 years ago and it was beautiful on the first 2 days the last day however it started to hail and snow. Yes, in July." Pack warm clothing regardless of season when camping at higher elevations.
Water availability: Water access varies significantly between campgrounds. Nine Mile Canyon Ranch offers potable water, while at Swift Creek "water is limited" according to James M. Some sites like Aspen Grove have water spigots at each campsite.
Insect preparedness: Mosquitoes can be intense, especially near water sources. "The bugs were pretty bad. Gnats that would bite and leave some pretty big welts. Bring plenty of bug spray," warns a Moon Lake visitor. Higher elevation sites typically have fewer insects outside early summer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When glamping close to Duchesne, Utah with children, consider Promised Land Resort. "They have a couple playgrounds (one is better than the other) and lots of open grass area. The swimming pond was a great place for my kids to play," shares Akasha L. The resort maintains shallow water play areas suitable for supervised children.
Wildlife education opportunities: Moon Lake offers hands-on nature experiences. "My family has been going here every year in the summer for the last 30 years, we love to rent a boat and go fishing(we use the little gold and silver jakes fish hooks) and then we serve them up over the campfire," says Holly S., highlighting how camping can introduce children to fishing and outdoor cooking.
Group site options: Aspen Grove provides dedicated group camping areas. "I love this camp ground. We like campsite #38 because it is a double spot that can fit 3 or more cars or a truck and boat or large RV or trailer. It has a few flat spots for tents, and 2 tables and a nice fire ring," explains Brad B. The double site costs $46 per night versus $23 for single sites.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: For RVs at Aspen Grove, Eric P. recommends: "We took a 21' bumper pull to a double RV site and had a super great time. Site 46 on loop B is so good, double RV spot, right by the bathroom, tons of extra room for a tent if you want one." Sites on Loop B provide easier access for larger vehicles.
Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds offer limited or no hookups. Jim M. notes about Nine Mile Canyon Ranch: "This camp ground doesn't have all of the amenities of a city campground but it is in the top 10 of our favorites. It has water and a Septic Dump bathrooms and a shower is available for 3$ park fees were 20$ for us." Bring portable power solutions for extended stays.
Road conditions: Access roads to glamping destinations near Duchesne vary significantly. Akasha L. warns about Promised Land Resort: "The road to get here can be interesting if you've never been. I wasn't expecting a dirt road right next to the river. You don't need any special vehicle though and as soon as you get to the resort, it is GORGEOUS." Always check road conditions before bringing large rigs to remote locations.
