Camping options near Vernal sit at an elevation of around 5,300 feet, creating mild summer evenings that contrast with hot daytime temperatures. The region's high desert terrain features dramatic red rock formations and sandstone cliffs surrounding the camping areas. Primitive dispersed camping areas provide economical alternatives to established campgrounds, with most sites located within 15 minutes of downtown Vernal.
What to do
Dinosaur tracking: Visit the dinosaur footprints near Red Fleet State Park Campground where you can rent kayaks to see prehistoric tracks. "Our absolute favorite part of this campground is the ability to rent kayaks and kayak over to see the dinosaur footprints. This was our first time seeing anything of the like, and it absolutely blew our minds! Do NOT miss doing this while visiting," shares Angela G.
Mountain biking trails: Access over 46 miles of dedicated trails at McCoy Flats MTB Trailhead. "This trail system boasts 46 miles and 15 trials for all skill levels. If you are a mountain biker, this area is not to be missed," notes Jenny R. The main trailhead provides vault toilets and room for large vehicles.
Eagle Crest hike: Take the short trail from Steinaker State Park Campground for panoramic views. "Hike the Eagle Crest trail located at the large group site for beautiful views of the lake, and Vernal beyond," recommends Amanda B., who suggests using the park as a basecamp for nearby outdoor activities.
What campers like
Dark night skies: Primitive camping areas provide excellent stargazing opportunities without light pollution. "The night sky was magical," reports Jeff K. about his stay at Split Mountain Group Campground. "At night it is so dark you can see every star in the sky. The deer and sheep are very active at night which is very fun."
Riverside camping: Green River Campground offers sites close to cooling water during hot summer days. "2 second walk to gorgeous Green River. Plan on spending time by the water. Hot days but nights cooled off," writes S. Kevin O., highlighting the benefits of riverside access during summer heat.
Shade availability: When temperatures rise, finding campsites with tree cover becomes crucial. "If you want the best shade, choose the B loop," advises Daniel S. about Green River Campground. At Steinaker State Park, "Some bigger shadier trees towards the lake but you better book those way in advance cause they fill up fast."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, making shade and water access important. "This is a pretty open campground located right on the green river. There is a boat dock and a beachy area," notes Tammy H. about Split Mountain. For hotter months, "My suggestions are to take some kind of extra shade. There are not a lot of trees for shade," advises Arnel O.
Wind exposure: Some primitive camping areas have limited wind protection. "The only reason why it is getting 4-stars is because of the wind…not so much my jam. It did die down overnight but then it picked up again the next afternoon," reports Jenny R. about McCoy Flats Dispersed Camping.
Cellular connectivity: Most camping areas maintain good signal strength despite their remote settings. At McCoy Flats East Dispersed Camp, "cell signal is excellent 5g five bars," according to Greg L. This makes the area suitable for remote workers needing to stay connected.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. The KOA Campground Vernal features "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 course," according to Cortney M., making it suitable for families with varied interests.
Wildlife viewing: Look for native wildlife at Split Mountain Group Campground. "All kinds of wildlife can be seen here; big horn sheep, cranes, elk, deer," says Cortney M., providing opportunities for nature education with children.
Educational opportunities: Dinosaur National Monument offers junior ranger programs for kids. "Our family loves Dinosaur National Monument and the Green River Campground, amazing campsites close to the green river are clean and the rangers are top notch and super friendly, we love the petroglyphs and the kids love the Jr. Ranger Program," shares Christopher C.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Fossil Valley RV Park offers complete utility connections in town. "This park is clean and well maintained with plenty of pull thru sites with room for all your tow vehicles. Full hookups with max 50 amp service and good Wi-Fi," reports Tom M., highlighting the convenience for larger rigs.
Dump station locations: Plan waste disposal carefully as primitive sites lack facilities. "They do have 2 dump stations for $10 a use out front," notes Cortney M. about Vernal Dinosaurland KOA, providing a convenient option for RVers staying at dispersed sites.
Shade consideration: RVers should prioritize shaded sites during summer months. "The park sits within walking distance of town amenities and has proven accommodating to last-minute campers with pets," with "lots of really big shade trees which would be a HUGE plus during hotter summer months," according to Jesse E. about Fossil Valley RV Park.
