Tent camping near Jensen, Utah provides access to diverse desert ecosystems within the Uinta Basin. Most campsites sit at elevations between 4,800-5,500 feet, creating dramatic temperature shifts from daytime highs that can reach 95°F to overnight lows in the 50s during summer months. The area's geology features colorful sandstone formations with exposed layers dating back millions of years.
What to do
River access opportunities: The Green River runs through the area, providing excellent fishing and water recreation options. At Rainbow Park Campground, visitors can enjoy shoreline access. "Lots is small and winding trails all over the landscape to explore. Very close to some of the coolest petroglyphs also," notes a camper.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple camping areas offer excellent wildlife watching. At Uinta Canyon, campers regularly spot diverse animals. One visitor reported, "You will see an abundance of wildlife from frogs to Moose and everything in between." Early morning and evening hours provide the best viewing opportunities.
Stargazing: The remote location provides exceptional dark sky viewing. A camper at Rainbow Park described, "Absolutely pitch black out. There was no one here and no one for miles. Great view of the Milky Way. Totally silent." For optimal star viewing, visit during new moon phases and bring red-light headlamps to preserve night vision.
Hiking opportunities: Multiple hiking trails connect camping areas to scenic viewpoints. "The river is about 1/4 mile away and has good fishing. There is also a nice trail head close by for hiking or horseback riding," reports a visitor to Uinta Canyon. Hiking during early morning hours is recommended during summer to avoid midday heat.
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Many campers appreciate the remote feeling at dispersed sites. At North of Dinosaur CR16, a reviewer noted, "Just randomly driving thru Colorado and run into Dinosaur and a peaceful off grid place to camp. No one around. No one else on the planet." Sites typically offer good separation from neighbors.
Established fire rings: Most tent sites come equipped with basic fire rings. A visitor at Forest Service Road 13 shared, "The camp sites are spacious and each one is far enough from each other that peace and quietness was never an issue. There are some sites with fire pits and lots is dead wood that can be used."
Accessible water features: Proximity to rivers and streams enhances many camping experiences. A Forest Service Road 13 camper mentioned, "We found a spot next to a stream on forest road 838. Very few campers in the area, all quiet and respectful." These water sources provide both recreational opportunities and practical benefits during hot weather.
Natural shade availability: Tree cover offers essential protection during hot summer days. "The sites are in the pines so plenty of shade," noted a camper at Uinta Canyon. This natural shade can make a significant difference in comfort during summer camping trips when temperatures frequently exceed 90°F.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many camping areas require driving on unpaved roads that may challenge some vehicles. A Forest Service Road 13 visitor cautioned, "The road was pretty rough, some large divits and larger rocks on the road. I drive an outback so I just went slow and it was fine." Higher clearance vehicles are recommended for most dispersed camping locations.
Limited facilities: Most tent sites offer minimal amenities. A Rainbow Park camper explained, "This campground is super remote and offers 4 primitive campsites. There are pit toilets and no accessible water." Bringing all necessary supplies, including water, is essential.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat and winter accessibility present different challenges. "The skies were very dark at night, perfect for seeing shooting stars and the milky way," shares a Rainbow Park visitor, highlighting the benefits of clear desert skies. However, another warns, "Road is easily accessible by sedans, SUV's etc…just not in the rain (the road will easily wash out)."
Wildlife encounters: Local wildlife includes various species that may visit campsites. "If you're lucky, you will come across the herd of elk roaming the grounds," mentions a Rainbow Park camper. Proper food storage is recommended to avoid attracting animals to tent camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Geocaching opportunities: Several camping areas feature geocaching possibilities. At Uinta Canyon, a visitor recommends, "Several geocaches in the area so be sure to take your GPS." This activity provides structured exploration for children and can be enjoyed regardless of hiking ability.
Swimming options: Some camping locations offer safe water access. A Forest Service Road 217 camper noted, "I'm here in October and though chilly it's gorgeous! There are a lot of hunters here with their four wheels but no one has bothered me." During summer months, water features provide welcome relief from heat.
Group camping considerations: Several areas accommodate larger family gatherings. "We recently had our family reunion at the group site a little farther up the road. It easily accomadated 30 trailers, 8 large tents, about 70 of us, and 10 dogs," reported a visitor to Uinta Canyon.
Insect preparation: Bug spray is essential during certain seasons. A Rainbow Park camper advised, "Bring bug spray! The mosquitoes are vicious here." Spring and early summer typically see higher insect activity near water sources.
Tips from RVers
Parking considerations: Finding level parking can be challenging at some tent camping sites. A North of Dinosaur CR16 visitor noted, "This location as more camping spots available down CR16 past the GPS waypoint. The site at the waypoint has 2-3 more sites tucked back down the grassy double track you can see from the initial pull-off."
Limited turnaround space: Many forest roads have restricted maneuvering room. A reviewer at Forest Service Road 13 cautioned, "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."
Site selection strategy: Arrival timing impacts site availability. "We stayed at this site on a Monday and I was the only one there," shared a visitor to Forest Service Road 13, highlighting the benefits of weekday camping when seeking solitude at tent sites near Jensen, Utah.
