Tera C.
Traveler
TravelerJug Hollow Road - Dispersed Camp
LakeHeaven
Great way to end our 4 day trip to Flaming Gorge. Can’t wait to come back.
Camping near Flaming Gorge, UT
175 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area straddles the Utah-Wyoming border in the northeast corner of Utah, with the reservoir and surrounding Ashley National Forest land giving access to a wide range of campground types. Developed campgrounds around the gorge have vault toilets, defined sites, and in some cases water hookups and electric service at full-hookup sites. Flaming Gorge's no-fee dispersed sites cover the no-fee BLM and national forest spots for campers who prefer primitive setups without a reservation.
Most developed campgrounds in the recreation area book through recreation.gov, and summer sites fill quickly from July through August when reservoir activity peaks. Boat-in sites exist along the shoreline and offer a different kind of access from road-accessible campgrounds. RV sites with hookups are at several campgrounds in the area, but check maximum length restrictions before bringing a large rig, as some loops have tight turnarounds. Horse camping with corrals is available at selected forest sites. What's available for camping near Vernal covers the developed and dispersed options to the south if gorge sites are booked out during peak season.
Elevation around the reservoir runs between 6,000 and 8,000 feet depending on location, so summer nights are cool and early fall can turn cold fast. The water and fishing draw heavy use in July and August. Spring and early fall are quieter and have better campsite availability.
Best Campgrounds near Flaming Gorge (175)
1. Spring Creek Road Dispersed - Flaming Gorge
"Easy access from the main highway, lots of spots to camp right on the waters edge."
"Got a spot right in the edge of the water. Very private could not see or hear anyone else. Beautiful, clean camping area."
2. Cedar Springs Campground
"We were right next to the camp host and next to the bathrooms with running water and hot showers. The campground is a short walk or drive to the marina."
"This campground is located right up the road from the marina. Loved being able to be close to the water but have such a private, wooded site. Can be busy and would recommend a reservation vs walk-in."
from $42 - $82 / night
Check Availability3. Mustang Ridge Campground
"The Red Canyon along the flaming gorge is AMAZING! GREAT fly fishing! Site 29 had 2 tables, views of Ashley Forest, and privacy. Very good campground with showers."
"Its $25 a night so for me a lil pricey but then when I walked my dog around the park I can see why it cost that much. There were like 6 bathroom facilities a boat dock and even shower facilities."
from $230 / night
Check Availability4. Deer Run Campground
"Potable water and a dump station are located just down the road, for a fee of $6 you can dump and refill your tank. This campground is very close to the Flaming Gorge Reservoir."
"Anyway, it's not far from the Flaming Gorge Dam. There were only two sites still available when we got there. They do take reservations so most sites were reserved."
from $42 - $82 / night
Check Availability5. Firefighters Campground
"A nice clean & quite campground with a great view of Flaming Gorge from the site we stayed at. Flush toilets, no showers, & no electricity but did have access to running water."
"Very peaceful and the Flaming Gorge area in general is a natural wonder."
from $34 / night
Check Availability6. Navajo Cliffs
"Free, dispersed camping in the beautiful Flaming Gorge! The drive in is beautiful, the camping is beautiful...don’t miss it. No services, but just a dirt road to get there."
"Don’t take 318 from CO and into Utah in the dark. Lesson learned. Nice quiet place to spend the night, can see stars if the weather is good."
7. Red Canyon
"Amazing views of Flaming Gorge resivore. We saw big horn sheep right by camp. The look out is within walking distance and it is close to the trailhead to the loop trail."
"The canyon and Flaming Gorge reservoir views awesome. You are approximately 1,700 ft above bottom of the gorge. We came up on a Sunday. Half the sites were available."
from $33 / night
Check Availability8. Utah Forest Road 13 Dispersed Camping
"We loved camping here after visiting Flaming Gorge! It was definitely worth the drive down because it loops us back up to I-80 on the western side of the gorge."
"This was one of my favorite finds during my trip through Utah earlier this summer. We were checking out Flaming Gorge and, predictably, all the campgrounds were booked full."
9. Canyon Rim
"We just got back from a weekend RV camping at Canyon Rim campground in Flaming Gorge UT. We absolutely LOVED it! Quite, peaceful, well maintained, new fire pits, very clean toilets."
"While Flaming Gorge doesn’t have the glamour of its relatively close neighbors it makes a marvelously and interesting stopover on the way to Grand Tetons and Yellowstone."
from $33 / night
Check Availability10. Greendale - Ashley National Forest
"I always stay at Greendale Family CG when visiting Flaming Gorge area because there is a store, gas station and restaurant within walking distance."
"Dusty dirt road adjacent to the CG that goes to a over RV park may be an issue for sites close to that side. Dumpster on site. Cell signal good."
from $33 - $173 / night
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Drive Time
- 2 hrs 58 min from Ogden, UT
- 3 hrs 6 min from Salt Lake City, UT
- 3 hrs 6 min from Grand Junction, CO
- 3 hrs 12 min from Provo, UT
Recent Camping Photos near Flaming Gorge, UT
142 Photos of 175 Flaming Gorge Campgrounds
Rob S.
Pine Forest RV Park
Tom D.
Cedar Springs Campground
Melissa K.
Deer Run Campground
Erin S.
Mustang Ridge Campground
Ally G.
Skull Creek
Greg L.
Arch Dam Campground
Jennifer S.
Canyon Rim
johny R.
Road #839 Dispersed Camping
Greg L.
Forest Road #838 Dispersed Camping Area
Ashley B.
Utah Forest Road 13 Dispersed Camping
Rene R.
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area-NFS Antelope Flat Campground
Bille W.
Northeast Utah BLM Land
Recent Reviews near Flaming Gorge, UT
682 Reviews of 175 Flaming Gorge Campgrounds
Nick B.TravelerDinosaur South Dispersed Camp
Beautiful scenery
Pulled in after dark and woke up to gorgeous sandstone cliffs
- Tera C.Traveler
Bridge Hollow Campground — Browns Park Recreation Area
Hidden Gem
Discovered the site while exploring the area during the July 4 holiday weekend.
- MMatthew P.Traveler
Green River Flaming Gorge Dispersed Site
Scenic solitude
This camp site was perfect. I’m in a Harley Roadking with a passenger and fully loaded dresser setup. If I can do it so can you. Wood is hard to find but it is all so very dry.
Stella R.
GuideCarter Military Trail Yurt
Absolutely Amazing!!
I recommend this spot to anyone looking to getaway. We didn't see anyone for well over 24hrs while we were staying here. The yurt comes with a double burner and propane, we didn't use it but I thought that was lovely. And a wood burning stove inside. LOVE it! So quiet and peaceful. Worth every penny!!
- SSarah S.
ScoutNortheast Utah BLM Land
Great spot by the water
The campsite is further down the road than the map suggests. The road basically ends at the reservoir and there are lots of flat grassy spots to camp overlooking the reservoir. Fire pits as well. Very nice!
- KKendra T.Guide
Green River Flaming Gorge Dispersed Site
Flat & windy
No surprises, it’s flat and windy. As others have mentioned there is a LOT of broken glass. The sites are pretty level and the road up is easy.
Tyler S.
RangerSpring Creek Road Dispersed - Flaming Gorge
Easy to find
Great one night stop or multiple day stop if need be. There is a lot of space and some spots have fire pits. There are some atvs but it’s mostly quiet and open. That dirt road leading in is in good shape and no need to have a 4 wheel drive. Pack it in pack it out.
- JJanice S.Scout
BLM Rocky Reservoir Campground
Small campground that is quiet during non-hunting season
Correct location is: N 40.959524 W 108.904624
I camped here (site 5) for 2 nights - a Thursday and Friday - in early June. I had the campground to myself. I needed a level spot which limited my choice (site 3, 5 and 6 seemed to be the most level).
There are only 6 sites with sites 5 and 6 sharing a large grassy area. The campground is within a young aspen forest with some tall standing dead trees (I had my fingers crossed that more would not be falling down and blocking the road).
The single outhouse was clean and well stocked. The area is very quiet at night - some OHV traffic in the area during the day on Friday but not a lot.
I'm guessing this campground is much busier during hunting season (s).
I approached from county 10N and then onto county 72 and then a turn on to a two-track at a marked sign for the campground, however this access goes through State Trust Land (Cold Springs Mountain) and you must have a Colorado fishing, or hunting license. County 10N and 72 are both good gravel roads while the two track has a few large boulders and a significant tilt in places.
I'm not sure if there is access from the north that avoids the State land.
There's a second BLM campground nearby called "Bishops Hunting Campground" it is a large grassy area with one picnic table and 2 fire pits at the edge of an aspen forest. No outhouse.
No fee. Correct location is: N 40.959524 W 108.904624
Guide to Flaming Gorge
Dispersed camping near Flaming Gorge, Utah provides opportunities for lakeside accommodations without developed facilities. Located at 6,100 feet elevation, the area features red canyon walls contrasting with the blue-green reservoir waters. Temperatures can range from freezing at night in spring and fall to 90°F in summer, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Fishing access from shore: At Cedar Springs Campground, you're positioned for convenient reservoir fishing. "We caught lots of fish and crawfish from the shore at the marina and the kids all had fun," reports Brad B., who stayed at Cedar Springs Campground.
Hiking the Canyon Rim Trail: This trail connects multiple campgrounds in the Red Canyon area. "The Canyon rim trail runs through the CS, just jump on and it's about 1 mile to the Red Canyon Visitor Center," notes Allison Z. from Canyon Rim, who also spotted bighorn sheep wandering through the campground.
Boat rentals for lake exploration: The marina offers various watercraft options. "We took advantage of several different boats available to rent and spent the day enjoying the fantastic views of Flaming Gorge from the water," shares Timothy T. from Deer Run Campground.
What campers like
Free waterfront camping: Spring Creek Road dispersed camping allows direct water access. "Great walking access to the swimming beach. Also convenient water and bathroom access for site 67," explains Erin S. at Mustang Ridge Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers report unexpected animal sightings. "We saw big horn sheep right by camp. The look out is within walking distance and it is close to the trailhead to the loop trail," shares Brad B. who visited Red Canyon campground.
Shower facilities: Unlike most forest service campgrounds, some sites offer this amenity. "CLEAN toilets both pit and flush. CLEAN Showers free to campers. Quiet. Paved level pull in campsite," notes Jeff G. about Deer Run Campground, where showers are free for registered campers but cost $4 for non-campers.
What you should know
Water systems maintenance: Water availability varies throughout the season. "Note that the water system was not functioning as of 6-2021 and that means all the flush Restrooms and the RV dump are closed. Welcome to portapotties for restrooms," reports Greg L. from Firefighters Campground.
Insect considerations: Some lakeside areas have significant insect populations. "Amazing, gorgeous spot...however you cannot be outside without swarms of gnats and mosquitoes overtaking you," warns Cyndee F. about Navajo Cliffs camping.
Reservation requirements: Many sites require advance booking. "We came when sites were first come, first served. Found a nice site with asphalt pad and shaded fire pit and table," notes Susie at Deer Run, but most sites now require reservations, especially during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beaches: Look for designated swimming areas away from boat traffic. "There is a shower house and free for campers but $5 for non campers. Plus is the close adjacent Sunny Cove day use swim beach area. No motorized, kayaks, paddle boards, canoes only, very nice for families," advises Greg L. about Mustang Ridge.
Campsite privacy considerations: Some campgrounds offer better spacing. "Our site was a pull-thru that accommodated our 32 ft truck/trailer combo with just enough space for an additional vehicle. The site provided enough space for a tent nicely nestled among the trees," notes Bill S. from Mustang Ridge.
Activities for children: Nearby attractions keep kids engaged. "Sense a little girl this reservoir has been our family's favorite. Cliff diving, rock carving, craw dad hunting, large fish catching, waverunner breaking, rock climbing to name a few!" shares Christie W. about activities near Spring Creek Road Dispersed.
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Access roads vary significantly. "This is a large campground and there are 68 sites in a couple confusing loops. Roads are all two way but are narrow and campsites are close tucked along these narrow roads," warns Greg L. about Mustang Ridge.
Campsite selection for larger rigs: Only certain campgrounds accommodate big RVs. "Newer of the three campgrounds on the Red Canyon road. This CG is better suited to groups and larger RVs and TTs. Roads and vault toilets are in better shape," advises Greg L. about Canyon Rim campground.
Turnaround availability: Some dispersed areas have limited maneuvering space. "I would not go up this road with a trailer unless you had a turnaround open. This area is best suited to overlander tent and truck camper types," cautions Greg L. about Forest Road 13 dispersed camping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds in Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area?
Where are the best campgrounds in Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area?
Flaming Gorge offers diverse camping experiences across its expansive recreation area. Red Canyon stands out with its spacious sites, water hookups, and stunning reservoir views, plus opportunities to spot bighorn sheep nearby. For those seeking excellent facilities, Firefighters Campground provides clean, quiet sites with flush toilets and running water, all within minutes of Flaming Gorge resort's amenities. Other highly-rated options include Greens Lake for spacious, well-kept sites with nearby trails, and Cedar Springs for its proximity to the water. On the Wyoming side, dispersed camping offers more solitude with waterfront access, though you'll need to bring adequate shade and water supplies.
Are there private campgrounds near Flaming Gorge with amenities like pools?
Are there private campgrounds near Flaming Gorge with amenities like pools?
While most campgrounds around Flaming Gorge are public, there are a few private options with enhanced amenities. Pine Forest RV Park offers a more developed camping experience with electrical hookups and easy check-in, though it doesn't specifically mention a pool. For additional amenities, Greendale - Ashley National Forest campground, while public, provides convenient access to a store, gas station, and restaurant within walking distance. Most private accommodations near Flaming Gorge focus on basic comfort amenities rather than recreational facilities like pools. For swimming, most visitors take advantage of the reservoir itself rather than campground pools. Call ahead to verify current amenities as they may change seasonally.
What are the differences between tent camping and RV camping at Flaming Gorge?
What are the differences between tent camping and RV camping at Flaming Gorge?
At Flaming Gorge, tent campers generally enjoy more site options but fewer amenities. Cedar Springs Campground offers both tent and RV camping with clean bathrooms, though sites can be somewhat close together. Tent campers appreciate group sites with multiple picnic tables and ample space for multiple tents. RV campers have more limited options but better amenities at locations like Pine Forest RV Park, which offers electrical hookups and more developed facilities. Many tent campers enjoy the flexibility of dispersed camping areas with more privacy and natural settings, while RVers typically need to stick to established campgrounds with appropriate access roads and parking areas. Road conditions to some campgrounds can be challenging for larger RVs.
Can you camp on the beach at Flaming Gorge Reservoir?
Can you camp on the beach at Flaming Gorge Reservoir?
Yes, beach camping is possible at Flaming Gorge, particularly in designated dispersed camping areas. Flaming Gorge NRA Dispersed on the Wyoming side offers opportunities to camp near the shoreline, though be prepared for ATV noise and potentially dusty conditions. The payoff is direct water access for recreation. Antelope Flat Campground provides beautiful views of the lake with nearby boat ramp access, though it requires navigating a 4-mile dirt road. When beach camping, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles, be aware of water level fluctuations, and check local regulations as some shoreline areas may have seasonal restrictions to protect natural resources.
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