Dispersed camping around Flaming Gorge Reservoir spans across northeastern Utah and southwestern Wyoming at elevations between 6,000-7,500 feet. The lake features 360 miles of shoreline with most dispersed sites accessible via dirt roads that can become impassable after rainfall. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach 75-85°F with nighttime lows dropping to 45-55°F.
What to do
Fishing from shore: Spring Creek Road Dispersed sites provide direct water access for anglers. "Keep following the dirt road to get to a few spots by the water! I took my Kia Soul down the road and a Honda civic was parked there as well. Only a few spots but you can jump right in the water," notes one camper at Spring Creek Road Dispersed.
Wildlife viewing: The peninsula at Jug Hollow offers excellent wildlife observation points. A camper at Jug Hollow Road mentions, "The little island in the middle has an eagles nest and some antelope on it, so you can get some wildlife views as well."
Cave exploration: The geological formations near Sheep Creek provide opportunities for cave exploration. "There are lots of trails and lots of caves you can hike to and explore. If you like to explore caves this is a really awesome place," according to a visitor at Carmel Campground.
What campers like
Sunset views: Campers consistently mention the dramatic evening light on red canyon walls. "Amazing sunset with the red canyon wall in the background," notes a visitor to Carmel Campground.
Privacy between sites: Despite the open terrain, many dispersed areas offer seclusion. "Very private could not see or hear anyone else. Beautiful, clean camping area," writes a camper at Spring Creek Road Dispersed.
Dark night skies: The remote location creates excellent stargazing conditions. One camper at Sheep Creek Bay highlights that "This campground is secluded in Ashley National Forest with tons to do. From hiking to fishing to playing in the Gorge you'll enjoy this location day and night. The night sky was amazing for meteor showers."
What you should know
Cell service varies significantly: Coverage depends on your location and provider. At Jug Hollow, "I had full bars of LTE extended network on Verizon, enough to send texts, make calls, and could load some webpages but it was pretty slow." Other areas have different connectivity: "Forest Service Road 217 has strong ATT cell signal (no Verizon or TMobile)."
Non-biting midges: These insects look like mosquitoes but don't bite. "Don't listen to the reviews about 'non biting mosquitos' they are midges! Mosquito's harmless doppelgangers, but there are A LOT of them," explains a Spring Creek camper.
Road conditions: Most access roads are unpaved and can deteriorate. "The road coming in has lots of cows and deer so be careful! Take 319 to get to this area, not 341, it's now fenced off," warns a Jug Hollow visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Kokanee salmon spawning season: Time your visit for this colorful natural display. A visitor to Carmel Campground observed, "When I was there the Kokanee salmon were spawning and filled the creek with their vibrant colors."
Shallow shorelines: Not all waterfront sites have good swimming access. "The lake has a boat ramp but the water gets drawn down and there does not seem to be any nice beach area," notes a camper at East Park Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for possible wildlife sightings. "Within a few miles of the campground we saw 4 moose," reports an East Park Campground visitor.
Tips for RVers
Site leveling: Many dispersed areas have uneven terrain. A visitor at Jug Hollow noted, "Easy dirt road, pulled 34 foot toy hauler with no problem. Enough space to turn around at the end of the road."
Generator noise: In busy periods, mechanical sounds may disrupt the quiet. "Generators tear through the silence of the night. Bring ear plugs!" advises a camper at Jug Hollow Road.
Vehicle clearance: Low-clearance vehicles require extra caution on access roads. A visitor at Meadow Park Dispersed cautions, "If you have a low clearance vehicle you must go SLOOOWWW. The road is pretty washed out and has plenty of rocks that will take your oil pan as a souvenir."
