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Camping options around Woodruff, Utah range from established campgrounds to dispersed sites on public lands. Monte Cristo Campground, located directly in Woodruff, provides developed sites for both tents and RVs with amenities including picnic tables, toilets, and trash service during its summer operating season from late June through early September. Several dispersed camping areas can be found nearby, including free sites near Monte Cristo and in the Curtis Creek/Arbs Basin area, where primitive camping is permitted without developed facilities.
The camping season in this region typically runs from May through October, with higher elevation areas having shorter accessibility windows due to snow. Many campgrounds in the area, like Little Creek Campground near Randolph, close during winter months. Permits are required for some dispersed camping locations, while established sites often need reservations, especially during peak summer weekends. The region experiences significant seasonal temperature variations, with cool nights even during summer months at higher elevations. "This place is straight up middle earth status. The drive there is beautiful all the way and my not-so-great clearance old subaru could handle the semi-sketchy roads required to get there," noted one camper about the Beaver Creek area.
Waterfront access represents a notable feature at several nearby camping destinations. The Woodruff Narrows Public Access Area offers boat-in camping opportunities, while Little Creek Campground provides both tent and RV sites with drinking water and toilet facilities near water access. Campers frequently mention the natural beauty and relative seclusion of the area compared to more developed regions. Sites with full hookups are limited but available at select locations for RV travelers. Those seeking more primitive experiences can find dispersed camping options with varying levels of privacy and natural features. The Monte Cristo area receives particularly positive reviews for its accessibility and natural setting, with one visitor noting the "free dispersed camping areas offer more privacy than established campgrounds" in the region.
"I got here around midnight. If I could do it over, I’d get here while the sun was still up so I could scout out a better spot, but it was a nice, quiet night."
"Great campsites next to the lake. Excellent views and quiet. Only saw a couple other campers off in the distance. Lots of birds and ducks to watch. Saw a moose way off in the distance."
"A 4 mile-ish drive off the main road this site is located right next to the lake and has vault toilets. It was lovely and peaceful and we woke up to a lovely sunrise."
"Great view of the lake and the mountains. We really enjoyed the night. We didn't have internet with T-Mobile."
"Our campsite #12 had a little path to it, it was very green full of trees all around making us super private even with other sites nearby. Enough space for 2 tents. Came with a table & fire pit."
"The campground is surrounded by majestic Aspen, Pine and other trees."
from $28 - $259 / night
Check Availability"Nice grassy areas to walk your pups. They doggy poop bag stations were always empty of bags, but we carry our own anyway."
"Nice spot off the highway- easy large spaces for a Class A towing. Very friendly employees. Great for an overnight spot."
"This site is on a rock outcropping along the Woodruff Narrows Reservoir. Due to drought in Wyoming (and the west, in general) many reservoirs are drying up. This makes for good dispersed camping."
"Good fishing, good riding and away from everything what’s not to love?!"
from $12 - $65 / night
Check Availability"Two nice boondocking spots just a short drive on a tight dirt road off the highway. The campsite on the right is bigger, the one on the left is very small."
"It’s chilly and very pretty around. Nice view of the sunset. There’s no cell service."
"Great area for lake access"
"If you want to camp at Bear Lake, this is a good spot. Electricity and water hookups are included at each campsite for those of you with RVs."
from $35 - $305 / night
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ScoutGoogle maps took us up a dirt road, must have a high clearance vehicle way. We still arrived, but at 5-10 mph. If Google maps asks you to leave a nice gravel road on your way here, dont do it lol. Campground very nice with newer pit toliets (bring your own TP). View is amazing of the reservoir and surrounding mountains.
TravelerThis is one of the best campgrounds around. The owners are amazing and the location with large trees for shade. Deck with BBQs. Big hangout area in grass. We hold a fishing tourney here every year and we all love hanging out at the campground after!
ScoutThere was no overnight camping aloud
TravelerIt was kinda crazy, it is in between two small towns. It cost $10, there are only three campsights, one big one and two small ones. I am sure it is just a quick stop camp to your next destination. There are tables, fire pits, walking distance to river. The river it less then a block away. You have tk haul your own trash and bring your own water. Other than that it is a nice place to stop. There are stores that are close to the camp area.
GuideThis had amazing views, including a cool cave. However, the road is very bumpy and the spots are smaller. It would not be good for a larger RV. The spots fill up very quickly.
ScoutThe office was closed for the weekend but there were plenty of sites. The directions left were for those who had made online reservations to just choose a site. By night time it was probably 3/4’s full. Gravel sites were pretty level and electric was no problem. The restroom could have used more cleaning but not bad and plenty of hot water. Everything just seemed kind of dated. This was the fall and there were plenty of trees which I’m sure would be appreciated in the summer.
ScoutFantastic location, price and staff.
GuideFirst the campsite was very nice, bathrooms very clean, the campsite was well cared for which is why were shocked someone didn't correct the signs .....We were at WIllow Creek site 161, we arrived late in the evening ( at dusk) the signs only indicated camp sites up to 159 so we stopped at the camp host and knocked on the door, no one came to the door, so we drove around trying to find our camp site. We finally found our site ( 161) which was not listed on any sign, frustration we didn't need. For that reason I will never camp there again. How difficult is it to change a sign? Don't rely on Google Maps to get you here, follow the directions on your reservation confirmation.....
ScoutThey were super kind and let me fill up my water tanks! They have a restaurant too that I’ll have to come back and try!
Dispersed camping options near Woodruff, Utah extend throughout the surrounding Wasatch-Cache National Forest, with most sites located between 8,000-9,000 feet elevation. The region experiences significant temperature drops at night, with summer evenings frequently dipping into the 40s even when daytime temperatures reach the 70s. Primitive sites typically lack designated fire rings, requiring campers to create safe fire containment areas during non-restriction periods.
Fishing in reservoir waters: Woodruff Narrows Public Access Area offers waterfront camping with excellent fishing opportunities. "Gorgeous location right next to the lake. It was very quiet and open. We were the only campers there!" notes Kate M. about the Woodruff Narrows Public Access Area.
Hiking forested trails: Monte Cristo provides multiple trailheads connecting to longer backcountry routes. "I took my daughter to this campground just to day camp and hang hammocks. It was a perfect day to do so. The temp was 76 when we got there and it was the right day to get out of the heat and relax. No insects, no cell service, and lots of shade," shares Carlisle B. about Monte Cristo.
Tubing river routes: South Fork offers riverside camping with popular tubing runs during summer months. "Right by most of the campsites you can fly fish or set off on a tubing adventure down the Ogden River! It is required that you have a life jacket before setting off," explains Alan B. about South Fork.
Reservoir views: The open expanses around Woodruff Narrows provide unobstructed lakeside vistas. "Great campsites next to the lake. Excellent views and quiet. Only saw a couple other campers off in the distance. Lots of birds and ducks to watch. Saw a moose way off in the distance," reports Clayton P.
Fall foliage: Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo offers spectacular autumn colors. "We could not have asked for a more perfect spot. The views were immaculate, the sites were very spread out, it was the end of September and all the leaves were changing," writes Colyer D. about dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
Riverside access: Multiple campsites offer direct water access for fishing and wading. "We have been to South Fork 3 times and plan to go back many more times. There are single and double sites. The single sites are roomy. Each site has a picnic table and firepit. The grounds are well maintained and the camp host has always been friendly and helpful. There are trails you can walk and it's right along the rivers edge which is nice and cool in the summer," explains Alicia G.
Wind exposure: Many camping sites near Woodruff, Utah lack natural windbreaks. "One of my favorite dispersed camping spots… You're surrounded by sage brush, the reservoir is beautiful, and it's very peaceful. My only complaints are the wind and the OHV's," explains Ean P.
Limited cell coverage: Most camping sites near Woodruff have minimal or no cellular service. "Verizion gets 0-1 bars depending on where you're at. Host is nice. Water was turned on when we were there (although we brought water because reviews in the past said it wasn't)," reports Spencer S. about Monte Cristo.
Insect activity: Proximity to water means dealing with various insects throughout summer. "They sprayed for mosquitoes, so no bites. But there were plenty of bumblebees, yellow jackets, flies, and gnats due to the meadows," notes Spencer S.
Road conditions: Access to Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin requires navigating unpaved roads. "Awesome time love the dirt road love the trees the nature, everything about it basically the hills and country," states John C.
Site selection strategy: Choose campgrounds with established facilities for family comfort. "Monte Cristo Campground is absolutely beautiful! The campground is surrounded by majestic Aspen, Pine and other trees. The loops that connect the campground are paved by asphalt (surprisingly not dirt) and can be very tight if you have an RV or trailer longer than 25' long," advises Steven M.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites offer opportunities to observe birds, moose, and small mammals. "I could hear owls hooting at night and elk bugling in the morning. It was fantastic!" shares Meghan M. about Little Creek Campground.
Weather preparation: Families should pack for significant temperature swings, even in summer. "The campground is around 8700' elevation so the days were in the upper 60's and the overnights were in the lower 40's. IMO, it was perfect weather. Shorts and T's during the day and sweats or long pants and a cozy sweater next to the campfire at night," notes Steven M.
Size limitations: Many camping sites near Woodruff have tight access roads unsuitable for larger rigs. "The loops that connect the campground are paved by asphalt (surprisingly not dirt) and can be very tight if you have an RV or trailer longer than 25' long," cautions Steven M.
Site grading issues: RVers should bring leveling blocks for many area sites. "About 1/4 mile down a dirt road from Hwy 39 is a good single boondocking spot with a great view. Not for large RVs. Our 17 ft trailer with 4x4 was tricky to get into the spot because the loop was so small," shares Brian C.
Early arrival recommended: For prime dispersed camping spots, arrive before Friday afternoon. "There are tons of free site all up and down the main road. The only problem is it is busy if you leave on Friday plan to get there by 3 at the latest. Spots fill quick," advises Bryce R.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you camp at Woodruff Narrows Reservoir and what amenities are available?
Yes, you can camp at Woodruff Narrows Public Access Area, which offers boat-in, drive-in, and walk-in access with basic toilet facilities. This reservoir area provides fishing opportunities and water recreation. For those seeking more amenities nearby, Little Creek Campground near Randolph offers reservable sites, water access, and toilet facilities. The reservoir area is primarily designed for day use and primitive camping, with limited services compared to developed campgrounds. Expect basic facilities and prepare to bring your own water and supplies.
What are the seasonal camping regulations in Woodruff, Utah?
Camping in the Woodruff area is typically seasonal due to heavy winter snowfall, with most campgrounds open from late May through mid-October, depending on weather conditions. Birch Creek and surrounding campgrounds in the region generally close during winter months when access becomes difficult. For those seeking year-round options, Traveland RV Park offers extended season camping with level sites in the broader region. Always check current regulations with the Forest Service before planning a trip, as fire restrictions are common during dry summer months, and some areas require permits for dispersed camping. Winter camping is extremely limited due to snow-covered roads and freezing temperatures.
Where is Woodruff Campground located in Utah?
Woodruff is located in Rich County in northeastern Utah, close to the Wyoming border. The area sits approximately 45 miles east of Ogden and about 20 miles south of Evanston, Wyoming. Monte Cristo is a popular campground near Woodruff with drive-in access, reservable sites, and toilet facilities. The surrounding area offers beautiful mountain views and access to outdoor recreation in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest region. The town of Woodruff itself is situated along Highway 39, making it accessible for travelers exploring northern Utah.
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