Pelican Lake Campground
4.297 reviewsBureau of Land Management, Vernal Field Office, 170 South 500 East, Vernal, UT 84078
Quick Facts
4,800 ftPrice
$10 - $35/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
13 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
4,800 ftPrice
$10 - $35/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
13 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Pelican Lake Campground
$10.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The fee for individual campsites is $10.00, while group sites cost $35.00. Payments can be made using cash, check, or the Scan & Pay option on the...
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Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$35.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$45.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider435-781-4400blm_ut_vn_mail@blm.gov
What Campers Say
4.29
Satisfactory
Based on 7 reviews
17 Google reviews
Most mentioned
peacefulclean
Some mention
noisebugs
"User reviews are mixed, highlighting both positive aspects such as clean vault toilets and beautiful flora, and negative aspects like noise from nearby oil pumps and the lack of shade."
Fees & Passes at Pelican Lake Campground
$10 - $35/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: No specific stay limit mentioned.
Cancellation: No refunds, modifications, or cancellations are allowed for Scan & Pay systems.
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Bureau of Land Management website.
Best Time to Camp at Pelican Lake Campground
Pelican Lake's high desert climate treats visitors to an abundance of crystal-clear skies and sun-drenched days, making it ideal for stargazing and outdoor adventures. While daytime temperatures remain comfortable for hiking and fishing, nights can bring a refreshing chill that makes campfire gatherings all the more inviting. The dry conditions mean you can count on your camping plans, with minimal rain interruptions throughout most of the season.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: No explicit information about peak season dates.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open year-round.
- Current Alerts: No current alerts provided.
About Pelican Lake Campground
Nestled at 4,800 feet in Utah's high desert, Pelican Lake Campground offers an intimate escape with 11 individual campsites and 2 group sites perfect for gatherings under vast western skies. This hidden gem sits alongside the shimmering waters of Pelican Lake, where anglers cast for prized bluegill and bass while birders delight in the spring migration spectacle. Each campsite comes thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and fire rings for evening storytelling, with convenient vault toilets maintaining the balance between comfort and wilderness immersion.
Pelican Lake Campground accommodates various camping preferences, including individual sites, group sites, and spaces for tents. It is a first-come, first-served campground, emphasizing its walk-in availability.
Historical SignificanceSince the 1970s, Pelican Lake has earned its place in angling lore as one of the nation's premier bluegill fisheries, drawing dedicated fishermen from across the country to test their skills in these productive waters. The lake's story reflects both triumph and challenge, as collaborative conservation efforts work to restore the delicate ecological balance disrupted by invasive carp populations. Today, these ongoing restoration projects represent a commitment to preserving this cherished fishing destination for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsPelican Lake's high desert climate treats visitors to an abundance of crystal-clear skies and sun-drenched days, making it ideal for stargazing and outdoor adventures. While daytime temperatures remain comfortable for hiking and fishing, nights can bring a refreshing chill that makes campfire gatherings all the more inviting. The dry conditions mean you can count on your camping plans, with minimal rain interruptions throughout most of the season.
ElevationPerched at 4,800 feet above sea level, Pelican Lake Campground invites you to experience the unique beauty of Utah's high-desert environment, where crisp mountain air meets expansive sagebrush vistas and dramatic sunsets paint the sky in brilliant hues.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground embraces visitors with a quintessential high-desert landscape, where aromatic sagebrush stretches toward distant horizons and frames stunning views of Pelican Lake's serene waters. This legendary bluegill fishery reflects the changing moods of Utah's big sky, from dawn's first light to sunset's golden glow. While recent ecological challenges have tested the lake's resilience, the surrounding natural beauty remains unchanged, offering a peaceful retreat where desert meets water in perfect harmony.
Geological RegionSet within northeastern Utah's dramatic Uinta Basin, Pelican Lake Campground showcases the rugged beauty of ancient geological forces at work. The surrounding sagebrush-dotted landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, while Pelican Lake itself serves as a glittering oasis that has drawn wildlife and humans alike throughout history. This unique high-desert setting offers camping enthusiasts a chance to explore one of Utah's lesser-known natural treasures.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityFeatures include accessible campsites and picnic shelters.
Sites SizeThe campground offers standard-sized sites, including 11 individual sites and 2 group sites.
Sites PrivacyNo explicit description of privacy levels is provided, but the campground layout includes designated areas for individual and group camping.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesApproach from the west side of Pelican Lake Road to avoid getting misdirected by Google Maps. Sites are described as having little shade and may not be level.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
N/A
Check-out
N/A
Stay Limit
No specific stay limit mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified.
Groups
Two designated group sites are available. Specific capacities or vehicle limits are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 11 individual campsites and 2 group sites. Sites include picnic tables and fire rings.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations for group sites can be made on Recreation.gov. Individual campsites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in Availability"Campsites are first-come, first-served."
Cancellation PolicyNo refunds, modifications, or cancellations are allowed for Scan & Pay systems.
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.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pelican Lake Campground is known for its recreational offerings such as fishing, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. Boating and other water-related activities are also popular. Bird watching is particularly noted in spring when waterfowl rear their young. Fishing is highlighted as a major draw, historically featuring bluegill and bass. 'Pelican Lake is well known for the outstanding bluegill and bass fishing,' states the official description. Users have noted the area's suitability for picnicking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
Fishing
The campground is renowned for bluegill and bass fishing. Pelican Lake has been a significant fishing spot since the 1970s. However, the lake has seen ecological changes due to carp influx, affecting fish conditions. A user review states, 'Nice fishing,' emphasizing its ongoing appeal.Boating
Boating is listed as an available activity. Specific types of boats or docking facilities are not detailed.Wildlife viewing
Bird watching is a popular activity, especially in spring when waterfowl are present. The area is also suitable for general wildlife viewing.Winter Activities
Ice fishing is listed as a winter activity.Water Sports
General water activities are noted, but specific non-motorized sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not detailed.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in the provided fire rings.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsProximity to oil pump jacks and unpaved road access may present challenges. Mosquitoes and bugs are commonly mentioned in user reviews.
Active alertsNo current alerts provided.
Weather at Pelican Lake Campground
34
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 60%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital, police station, and emergency services are likely in Vernal, UT, 25 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo explicit information about peak season dates.
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are available, as mentioned in user reviews: 'Aside from the lack of trash receptacles, and the bugs, this place is amazing!'
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Pelican Lake, popular for fishing and bird watching.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints from user reviews include noise from nearby oil pumps, unpaved roads, inaccurate Google Maps directions, lack of trash receptacles, and bugs.
HostNo information about campground hosts provided.
Campground Map
Bureau of Land Management, Vernal Field Office, 170 South 500 East, Vernal, UT 84078
Driving directionsPelican Lake Campground is located 25 miles southwest of Vernal, UT on UT-88. Note: "APPROACH FROM PELICAN LAKE ROAD ON THE WEST, NOT THE EAST SIDE," as stated in a user review. Incorrect routes could lead to private ranch roads.
The campground is accessible via UT-88, with some reviews warning of unpaved roads and recommending a good car for access. "Several miles on unpaved roads" were mentioned in a review.Nearby places
Vernal, UT: 25 miles (approximately a 30-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Closest groceries, fuel, and other supplies are in Vernal, UT, approximately 25 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
7 reviews
Pelican Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, highlighting both positive aspects such as clean vault toilets and beautiful flora, and negative aspects like noise from nearby oil pumps and the lack of shade.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the clean vault toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables. Some noted the peaceful atmosphere and good fishing opportunities. 'Unexpectedly great little campsite with raised platforms...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Noise from nearby oil pumps and diesel tanker trucks disrupted the natural ambiance. Several reviewers criticized the lack of trash bins and shade. One user noted, 'Parking spaces are not level.'
Based on 7 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend approaching the campground via Pelican Lake Road from the west due to misleading Google Maps directions. Bringing insect repellent is advised due to mosquitoes, and a vehicle...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring is noted for bird watching and waterfowl activity. Summer reviews mention bugs and the need for shade. Winter activities include ice fishing.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms that actually smelled nice.' - Jeremiah Scanlan
2. 'Great views. Go camping!' - Theodore Smith
3. 'The oil pumps or whatever that is really ruin the nature vibe.' - Dana Flynn
4. 'Lots...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Group sites are noted to be available, but there are no specific reviews about individual site numbers.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features such as accessible campsites and picnic shelters are mentioned but not specifically reviewed by users.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and no specific issues or praises concerning pets were noted in user reviews.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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