Aquarius Ranger Station
3.9814 reviewsP.O BOX 129 138 SOUTH MAIN ST
Aquarius Ranger Station
$90.00 - $90.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season nightly rate for the cabin is $90. Additional reservation and service fees may apply.
About this campground
Nestled high on Boulder Mountain, Aquarius Ranger Station beckons adventurers seeking an authentic mountain retreat. This historic cabin, which comfortably accommodates groups of up to 20, serves as your gateway to endless outdoor pursuits. Whether you're casting a line into pristine mountain waters, exploring winding trails on foot or horseback, or simply gathering around the fire under star-filled skies, this remote sanctuary delivers the quintessential high-country experience that outdoor enthusiasts dream about.
Aquarius Ranger Station accommodates a variety of camping styles, including cabin lodging and space for tents and RVs.
Historical SignificanceStep through the weathered doorway of this 1937 Civilian Conservation Corps masterpiece and feel the weight of history in every hand-hewn beam. For nearly nine decades, this sturdy cabin has sheltered generations of Forest Service rangers who called these mountains home, their stories etched into the very walls that surround you. Today, you'll add your own chapter to this living piece of American conservation history.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain haven into a perfect escape from the heat below, where warm days give way to refreshingly cool evenings that demand a cozy sweater. As darkness falls, the absence of city lights reveals a breathtaking celestial display that will leave you mesmerized. While occasional summer rains bring life to the forest, they also awaken the local mosquito population—so pack your favorite insect repellent to ensure comfortable evenings on the porch.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 8,700 feet above sea level, the station offers that rare mountain air that fills your lungs with crisp, pine-scented freshness. Here, the thin atmosphere reminds you just how high you've climbed, while the cool nights—even in summer—provide the perfect excuse to gather close around the warmth of a crackling fire.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to golden sunlight filtering through towering aspens and mixed conifers, their leaves dancing in the mountain breeze. In summer, vibrant wildflowers paint the surrounding meadows in brilliant splashes of color, creating a photographer's paradise. Boulder Mountain looms majestically overhead, its ancient slopes offering panoramic vistas that stretch to the horizon, reminding you why this pristine wilderness has captivated visitors for generations.
Geological RegionYour mountain escape sits atop the magnificent Aquarius Plateau, where the western flanks of Boulder Mountain create a landscape of extraordinary diversity. Here, dense forests of pine, spruce, and quaking aspen give way to jewel-like alpine lakes nestled in flower-filled meadows, while distant views reveal the sagebrush-painted valleys below. This geological wonderland serves as a spectacular neighbor to the renowned Capitol Reef National Park, placing you at the heart of some of Utah's most treasured landscapes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe facility accommodates up to 20 people, with space for 2-3 RVs and multiple tents outside. Reviews describe the area as spacious, suitable for group activities.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is secluded and away from populated areas, providing solitude and privacy. User reviews highlight its peaceful environment.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring mosquito repellent. Ensure your tent/trailer can handle washboard roads. Prepare for no running water in the cabin’s sink and heater.
Best CampsitesCampsite 01 is the single site available, offering proximity to the cabin with space for tents and RVs.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 6 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Maximum allowed is 20 guests
- 4 inside the cabin and 16 camped outside.
Groups
The station accommodates up to 20 people, which includes space for multiple tents and RVs. It is suitable for family reunions or large groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle campsite with room for 20 guests, including space for tents and RVs surrounding the cabin.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen between May 22, 2025 and September 18, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot available for walk-up; reservations required.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made up to 14 days before arrival for cabins; fees include a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Aquarius Ranger Station provides a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, biking, trail riding, hunting, and stargazing. The area is known for its solitude and picturesque natural surroundings.
Hiking
The station is located near the Great Western Trail, which spans 4,500 miles through five states. The surrounding trails are popular among hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers.Fishing
Fishing is available at Pine Creek Reservoir (less than a mile away), Cook Lake, and Miller Lake, along with other lakes on Boulder Top. Species include brook trout.Biking
The area includes trails suitable for mountain biking and off-road vehicles. Some reviews mention well-maintained roads for biking but warn about washboard conditions near the end.Wildlife viewing
User reviews describe opportunities for observing local fauna, including mule deer, elk, black bears, and other wildlife. The remote location enhances the experience.Winter Activities
Snow-related activities such as snowshoeing or cross-country skiing may be possible given the area's elevation and climate during winter, though these are not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not explicitly mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire pits. Firewood must be sourced locally.
- Quiet hours are Quiet nights due to remote location. Specific quiet hours not provided.
Hazards
General hazardsWashboard roads pose challenges for trailers. Mosquitoes are abundant during rainy periods. Water heater issues have been reported, requiring visitors to bring alternate heating methods for water.
Active alertsVisitors have been informed to bring additional heating methods for water due to reported issues with the cabin's water heater.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include Torrey for RV dump stations and potentially medical clinics, though specific emergency facilities are not detailed.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22, 2025 - September 18, 2025
Trash and recyclingThis is a 'pack it in, pack it out' facility, so visitors must bring garbage bags to dispose of waste responsibly.
Proximity to water featuresLess than a mile from Pine Creek Reservoir and a spring-fed creek running nearby.
Common complaintsRoad conditions near the station are challenging (washboards). Cleaning maintenance issues including greasy stoves and unclean areas. Water heater is non-functional.
HostNo host information is provided.
Campground Map
P.O BOX 129 138 SOUTH MAIN ST
Driving directionsFrom Loa, travel directly south on the paved county road for about 2 miles. From that point, turn south on Forest Road 154 and travel about 8 miles. Turn left on Forest Road 178 and travel about 5 miles, then turn left onto the Aquarius Ranger Station Road and travel approximately a quarter-mile to the cabin.
The road to the Aquarius Ranger Station is mostly flat and well-maintained; however, the final stretch has significant washboard conditions that are challenging for trailers. A local gas station noted the road gets graded periodically, which improves accessibility.Nearby places
Loa (15 miles, approximately 25 minutes), Bicknell (30 minutes for supplies such as ice)
Nearby supplies
Ice and other supplies can be found approximately 30 minutes away in Bicknell. Campfire wood must be sourced locally or brought in by visitors.
Camper Reviews
4.0
14 reviews
Aquarius Ranger Station has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives mixed reviews. Positive aspects include its secluded location, cleanliness, and suitability for stargazing and group activities. Complaints center around maintenance issues, lack of hot water, and difficulty finding the site due to poor signage.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors praised the cabin's cleanliness, cozy atmosphere, and scenic views. "Cabin was clean and had a great time" (Scott C, 2023). "Beautiful area. Secluded and away from it all" (Robert H, 2019)....
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include poor directions to the site, lack of hot water, and maintenance issues inside the cabin. "The stove is filthy and greasy" (Certified Appraiser, 2021). "No water going to the...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing extra cleaning supplies, firewood, and water containers. "Be prepared for cool nights and a few cattle wandering in" (Shane D, 2021). Multiple users advise checking road...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is popular for its warm days and cool nights, with visitors enjoying hiking, fishing, and stargazing. Winter may offer solitude but could be challenging due to snow and low temperatures.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Aquarius is a unique place to unplug from the everyday and reconnect with nature" (Steven W, 2020). "The quiet of the Awapa Plateau nourishes an overstimulated body" (Annie B, 2020). "Even the...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews praise campsite 01 within the AQRS loop for cleanliness and spaciousness. Complaints include maintenance issues and lack of hot water.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed inside the cabin, and no reviews discuss pet-related experiences.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025