Range Study Area - FS Road #217

This dispersed camping area is called the " range study" site but there is no sign saying such. It is a very large open area along a dirt road FS #217 that runs down a flat open ridge toward the summit of this area. Sites are obvious and very large with lots of turn around space for large trailers. 16d limit and a sign warning about "Residential Camping" which seems to indicate this site is used by the locals to stash trailers for the season. Cell signal was very good for ATT, only extended network for Verizon and TMobile was nada. A single vault toilet is at the cattle guard close to the hwy. No dumpsters, water, tables, or metal fire rings.

I was at Steinaker State Park near Vernal, UT and it was H O T! Needed cooler temps and found FR 217 with an elevation of 8400’ - ahhh…temps in 70’s. I have a beautiful site amongst aspens/pines. Large pull thru spot, no neighbors, and quiet. Shortly after I arrived, the road was graded. I’ve seen a few large 18 wheel tankers go down the road and not sure what’s further down the road, but seems they keep the road graded.

This area is beautiful, not super close to water though. We bring our dogs everywhere and hope for shade and/or water. This place at least has good shade and nice open fields for dog play and yard games. It was about 20ish mins drive to flaming gorge area for a beach day!

This area is very open with patches of quakes you can park in or near for some seclusion. The Range Study has one bathroom facility right at the entrance. There are a ATV trails running everywhere in this area. This place tends to be really busy as it can accommodate large groups. That's why it received only 3 stars this time, there was just far to much ATV traffic for my liking. There isn't many places to hike around here. My dog and I were able to get out a lil bit but we had to keep avoiding the ATV's. There is all kinds of wildlife in this area including deer, chip munks, squirrels, elk, and occasionally a bear. So be sure to keep trash and all food inside or bear proof. Good area to let dogs and kids run. And if your like me, this is a great place to pick dandelions for dandelion Jelly!

This area has some wide open spots with scattered quakey trees to camp within. Many dirt road options to take to get you into seclusion. It has a bathroom facility located right at the entrance. It is great hunting for both Elk and Deer. Autumn is very beautiful but expect alot of cows. This is a popular area to camp so expect to see other campers.