Camping near Jensen, Utah offers diverse options from established campgrounds to remote dispersed sites. The region sits at the crossroads of high desert and mountain terrain, with elevations ranging from 4,700 to 7,500 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, creating ideal conditions for reservoir recreation, while winter brings opportunities for yurt camping around Jensen, Utah when many seasonal campgrounds close.
What to do
Fossil exploration: 15 minutes from camp. Echo Park Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring Dinosaur National Monument's paleontological treasures. "This is an absolutely amazing place! We were at the regular campsite, but they are very close together. Situated where the Green and Yampa rivers merge, you are surrounded by amazing cliffs with the main feature being Streamboat Rock," notes Bryan P.
Reservoir recreation: Access at multiple points. The shoreline at East Park Campground offers fishing and lake activities during summer months. "I hiked all the way around the lake in a lil over 2 hours. For the most part it is an easy hike till you get to the far bank there you will encounter fallen trees and some steak inclines," reports a camper who thoroughly explored the area.
Scenic driving: Red Cloud Loop accessible. Take Forest Service Road #18 to experience high-elevation vistas above the Jensen area. "Within a few miles of the campground we saw 4 moose," shares Jennifer C., highlighting the wildlife viewing opportunities on scenic routes near East Park Campground.
What campers like
Level sites with amenities: Paved access available. Steinaker State Park Campground offers well-maintained facilities close to Jensen. "Campground of 31 sites, with pit toilets but also has a flush toilet/4 shower building. And dump station. Very pleasant cg around a smallish lake near Vernal, UT," writes Steve H.
Privacy in dispersed areas: No cost camping. For those seeking solitude, Forest Road 13 Dispersed Camping provides free sites with natural separation. "We found a spot next to a stream on forest road 838. Very few campers in the area, all quiet and respectful. Road was rough, no problem for our Subaru Forester. Lots of hiking available in the area," shares Tom E.
Water access: Multiple reservoir options. Seasonal yurt camping near Jensen, Utah often includes proximity to water recreation. "There is a lake for fishing, swimming and water sports. There is a nice beach with pavilions and picnic sites," explains Tammy H. about facilities at Steinaker State Park, just minutes from Jensen.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to Cedar Springs Campground and other high-elevation sites may require appropriate vehicles. "Paved road goes all the way around the park. Some sites are close but others are set alone for privacy. Short hilly walk to the lake depending on which site your in," notes Cortney M.
Seasonal closures affect planning: Most campgrounds around Jensen operate May through September. "They do close middle of Oct for the winter," reports a visitor to Flaming Gorge-Manila KOA, highlighting the importance of checking operating dates.
Insect preparation essential: Bug pressure can be extreme in certain locations during summer months. "We tell the story of our experience at parties. I go on multi week long road trips and have camped all over the country. So believe me when I say the mosquitos here, depending on the day, are utterly out of control," warns Alexa D. about Echo Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kid-friendly amenities. Vernal / Dinosaurland KOA offers multiple recreation options for children beyond what's available at primitive sites. "What I liked about this campground were all the activity options they gave you, unlike some other KOA's I've stayed at. There was a small but functional K-9 park, a kids park, a swimming pool, a jump pad, and they had bike/3 wheeler rentals, and a mini golf coarse," shares Cortney M.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs available. Several campgrounds feature interpretive activities during summer months. "The ranger presentation was also very nice... I would recommend it for kids for the Dinosaur angle alone," suggests a visitor to Echo Park.
Group facilities: Larger gatherings accommodated. Iron Springs Group Campground provides designated areas for family reunions or multi-family camping trips. "Great Area for camping and hunting. Seen elk and deer pass through here. Many ATV trails. A couple bathroom facilities, picnic tables, a couple group fire pits, room for RVs and Tents," explains Kam L.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Limited full-service options. Water and electric sites require advance planning in the Jensen area. "We were in an overflow site with dirt pad but most sites seemed to be gravel. Bring earplugs, lots of road noise at least in the front of the park," advises George L. about staying at Vernal / Dinosaurland KOA.
Size restrictions: Length limits enforced. Many campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs only. "Most sites are best for smaller rigs, tent trailers and tents. There were only 4-5 sites that would accommodate our 26' trailer. Because the campground is on the side of a hill, sites are pretty unlevel, but we were able to adapt," explains Terri D. about Cedar Springs Campground.
Dump station access: Plan accordingly. Several campgrounds offer dump stations seasonally. "The showers and bathrooms were spotless, and the dumpsters were very convenient. I ended up at a full hookup spot that cost $50 a night. I believe there are $30 options available as well," notes Kelda C. about facilities at Steinaker State Park.
