Vernon Reservoir Campground

Star4.24
111 reviews
Highway 36 to Vernon, 9 miles south on dirt road
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

6,142 ft

Price

$10 - $60/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Spanish Fork Ranger District (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest) site

Official Website
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Vernon Reservoir Campground
$10.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Day Use pass costs $10 per vehicle for 3-day access, $20 for 7-day access, or $60 for an annual pass. Interagency "America the Beautiful" Passes and...
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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

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USFS
Provider
(801) 798-3571sm.fs.uwc_info@usda.gov
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What Campers Say

4.24

Satisfactory

Based on 111 reviews

103 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peaceful

Some mention

crowded

"User reviews of Vernon Reservoir Campground are mixed, with many visitors praising the natural setting and fishing opportunities, while others emphasize the lack of amenities and sometimes unclean restrooms. The open and peaceful environment is a highlight, but the campground can become crowded on holidays."

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Campground Map

Highway 36 to Vernon, 9 miles south on dirt road

Vernon Reservoir Campground

Highway 36 to Vernon, 9 miles south on dirt road

Driving directionsTake Highway 36 to Vernon, then drive 9 miles south on a dirt road to reach the campground.
The campground is accessible via a 9-mile stretch of dirt road south of Highway 36 in Vernon. While navigable, the road may pose challenges for some vehicles, especially during adverse weather.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are not specified
users should plan ahead and bring necessary items, as the campground lacks potable water and other facilities.

Best Time to Camp at Vernon Reservoir Campground

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer to early fall cited as best for camping, fishing and water activities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Early fall included among best seasons for fishing and camping.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Spring likely good for water access and wildlife, but specifics not provided.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Ice fishing available in winter but overall water recreation and camping less suitable.

Planning Tips

    About Vernon Reservoir Campground

    Nestled in the heart of Utah's wilderness, Vernon Reservoir Campground beckons to those who seek simplicity and authentic outdoor experiences. This unspoiled retreat strips away the unnecessary, offering instead the raw beauty of nature and direct access to the shimmering waters of Vernon Reservoir. Here, anglers cast their lines at dawn while the mist rises off the water, and outdoor enthusiasts find their perfect basecamp for adventure. The campground's rustic charm and open layout create an atmosphere where the focus remains on what matters most: the connection between you and the great outdoors.
    The Vernon Reservoir Campground primarily supports primitive camping, with dispersed camping options. It is a free campground with no designated spots. RVs are allowed, and tent camping is common.
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    Reserving a campsite

    Stay Limit
    16 day stay limit

    Amenities available

    Fire rings
    Picnic tables
    Vault toilets

    Activities you can enjoy

    Recreational opportunities center around lake fishing, with additional options for hunting and ice fishing. Some reviews also indicate off-roading and water recreation such as kayaking, row boating, and swimming.
    FishingFishing is a primary activity at Vernon Reservoir. The lake supports tiger trout, rainbows, and browns. User reviews highlight fishing success and enjoyment, although some noted low water levels affecting the experience.
    SwimmingSwimming is an option in the reservoir, as mentioned by a few reviewers. However, no formal swimming facilities or safety measures are provided.
    BoatingNon-motorized boating is allowed. Powerboats are prohibited. Activities like kayaking and row boating are mentioned by reviewers.
    Wildlife viewingWildlife such as wild turkeys has been observed by campers. A user reported hearing wolves howling at night, adding to the area's natural appeal.
    Winter Activities
    Water Sports
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    Policies & Safety

    Hazards & Alerts"Beware of crickets!" was noted in reviews. Additionally, other hazards include gravel roads that may cause flat tires; one reviewer recommended carrying a spare tire.
    No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

    Weather at Vernon Reservoir Campground

    Reviews

    4.2
    111 reviews
    Satisfactory
    Satisfactory
    Vernon Reservoir Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
    User reviews of Vernon Reservoir Campground are mixed, with many visitors praising the natural setting and fishing opportunities, while others emphasize the lack of amenities and sometimes unclean restrooms. The open and peaceful environment is a highlight, but the campground can become crowded on holidays.
    Review Summaries
    Based on 111 reviews

    What Campers Love

    Many users enjoy the peaceful environment, wildlife sightings, fishing opportunities, and the reservoir's suitability for various recreational activities.
    Based on 111 reviews

    Common Concerns

    Issues with restroom cleanliness, crowded conditions during holidays, low water levels in the reservoir, and occasional disturbances like military helicopter flyovers are noted.
    Based on 111 reviews

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Bring a spare tire due to rough road conditions. Visit during non-holiday weekends for less crowding. Be aware of crickets in the area. Pack out all trash to keep the site clean.
    Based on 111 reviews

    Seasonal Insights

    The winter season offers ice fishing opportunities, but reviews suggest summer to early fall is better for camping, fishing, and other water-related activities. Holidays draw larger crowds, so...
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    Based on 111 reviews

    Camper Quotes

    1. 'I love this place! I'd have given it a five, but of seven years of going to this beautiful place the restrooms were filthy.' - Calene Johnson 2. 'Great place for scouts overnighters, with plenty...
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    Based on 111 reviews

    Site-Specific Reviews

    No specific site numbers or areas are identified due to the campground's dispersed camping format.
    Based on 111 reviews

    Accessibility Features

    No user reviews specifically mention accessibility experiences.
    Based on 111 reviews

    Pet-Friendly Features

    A review notes that pets (e.g., dogs) enjoyed proximity to the reservoir, suggesting the campground is pet-friendly.
    Based on 111 reviews

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    Last updated January 5, 2026
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