Arch Dam Campground
PO BOX 279, MANILA, UT, 84046, USA
Arch Dam Campground
$164.00 - $164.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Group standard nonelectric sites cost $164 per night during peak season (May 10 - September 14). The fee does not reflect discounts, taxes, or...
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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$164.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$164.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
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About this campground
Nestled within the spectacular Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, Arch Dam Campground has become a beloved gathering place where memories are made beneath endless Utah skies. Whether you're planning a multi-generational family reunion, organizing a church retreat, or simply seeking adventure with a large group of friends, this spacious campground welcomes you with open arms. Just moments away, the shimmering waters of Flaming Gorge Reservoir beckon with promises of exhilarating boat rides, refreshing swims, and some of the most legendary fishing experiences in the American West.
Arch Dam Campground is designed to accommodate large groups, making it ideal for family reunions, church gatherings, or group camping events. It features spacious group sites with basic facilities.
Historical SignificanceStep back through millennia at the nearby Flaming Gorge Dam, where fascinating guided tours reveal the layers of human history etched into this dramatic landscape. From ancient Native American petroglyphs that whisper stories of the first inhabitants to tales of notorious outlaws who once roamed these canyons, the area's rich heritage comes alive through engaging exhibits. Discover how massive geological forces shaped these lands over millions of years, creating the stunning backdrop for your outdoor adventure.
Weather and SeasonsAt 6,200 feet, summer days unfold with crystalline clarity under brilliant blue skies, while the high-desert air remains refreshingly crisp even during peak season. The elevation creates a perfect escape from sweltering valley heat, with mornings that invite you to wrap your hands around a steaming cup of coffee and evenings that call for gathering around the campfire as stars emerge in the unpolluted darkness above.
ElevationPerched at 6,200 feet in Utah's high country, the campground occupies a sweet spot where mountain freshness meets desert beauty. This elevation brings welcome relief from summer heat while maintaining the characteristic dry climate that makes for comfortable camping. The moderate altitude creates ideal conditions for outdoor activities without the breathlessness of higher mountain passes, allowing visitors of all ages to fully enjoy their adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryThe landscape unfolds like a painter's canvas of high-desert beauty, where silvery sagebrush releases its distinctive fragrance on warm afternoons and ancient pinyon pines stand sentinel over rolling hills. In summer, delicate wildflowers paint splashes of color across meadows of native grasses that ripple like golden waves in the breeze. While the open terrain offers limited natural shade, it provides expansive views of the surrounding wilderness and ensures every campsite enjoys spectacular sunrise and sunset displays across the vast Utah sky.
Geological RegionThis captivating high-desert ecosystem showcases nature's artistry through undulating hills clothed in aromatic sagebrush and twisted pinyon pines that have weathered centuries. Native grasses carpet the spaces between, creating a tapestry that shifts from emerald green in spring to golden bronze by late summer. When wildflower season arrives, the seemingly austere landscape transforms into a celebration of color, with Indian paintbrush, lupines, and desert marigolds adding their vibrant signatures to this remarkable geological canvas.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has no explicit details about disability-specific amenities or accessibility features.
Sites SizeThe campground contains two large sites that can accommodate up to 75 people each, and one site accommodating up to 60 people.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is somewhat limited due to the high desert terrain and limited shade. Sites are clustered but spacious enough for large groups.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 3 is ideal for large groups with its pavilion and large fire pit. Sites 1 and 3 are best for larger gatherings. Site 2 has spacious group camping.
Best CampsitesSite 3 is noted for its large covered pavilion and impressive fire pit.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum 16 consecutive nights
Guests Allowed Per Site
Sites accommodate up to 75 people for some sites and 60 people for others.
Groups
The campground has two sites for up to 75 people and one site for up to 60 people. These sites are well-suited for large gatherings and come equipped with picnic tables and campfire circles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground contains two group sites accommodating up to 75 people each and one site accommodating up to 60 people.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 10 to September 14.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly mentioned; reservations are preferred.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed anytime before the check-in date; late cancellations incur a $10 fee and the first night's recreation use fee is forfeited. Changes can be made for $10 unless it involves adding/removing nights or switching campsites of the same type.
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
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Arch Dam Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, particularly suited for water enthusiasts and large groups. Activities include world-class fishing, boating, and hiking, with close proximity to Flaming Gorge Reservoir and Green River providing ample adventure opportunities.
Fishing
The Flaming Gorge Reservoir, located 3 miles away, is renowned for 'world-class fishing,' particularly for lake trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout.Swimming
Swimming is a popular activity at the nearby Flaming Gorge Reservoir, 3 miles from the campground.Boating
Activities like boating, water skiing, jet skiing, canoeing, kayaking, and scuba diving are available at Flaming Gorge Reservoir, which is 3 miles away. Cedar Springs Marina is a convenient launching point.Cultural and Educational Programs
Flaming Gorge Dam, less than a mile from the campground, offers guided tours of its hydroelectric plant and a visitor center with historical exhibits.Winter Activities
The campground does not explicitly mention winter activities.Water Sports
Water sports such as jet skiing, canoeing, and kayaking are popular at the nearby Flaming Gorge Reservoir.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsWasps can be problematic during late summer. Snakes and lizards are moderately common, but bear activity is unlikely.
Weather forecast
40
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are located in Manila, Utah, approximately 28 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 10 - September 14.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are present but inconsistently maintained, as noted in a review: 'The garbages however were overflowing at the dumpster and didn’t look like they’d been picked up in a while.'
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is 3 miles from Flaming Gorge Reservoir, which is popular for fishing, boating, and scuba diving.
Common complaintsComplaints include locked restrooms, overflowing garbage, and a lack of toilet paper. Some users noted road noise and wasp activity.
HostCamp hosts are generally helpful; however, complaints were noted about restroom maintenance and availability.
Campground Map
PO BOX 279, MANILA, UT, 84046, USA
Driving directionsFrom Vernal, Utah, take U.S. 191 north for about 46 miles. From Manila, Utah, take Highway 44 for 28 miles. Turn left on U.S. 191 and go about 6 miles north. From Rock Springs, Wyoming, take I-80 west toward Green River about 6 miles to the junction with U.S. 191/Flaming Gorge Road. Take U.S. 191 south for 60 miles, pass through Dutch John, and continue south 3 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via U.S. 191, with paved roads leading to the site. However, roads and parking spurs within the campground are dirt.Nearby places
Vernal, Utah (46 miles)
Manila, Utah (28 miles)
Dutch John, Utah (3 miles)
Rock Springs, Wyoming (60 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Manila, Utah, 28 miles away. Public showers and dump stations are available at nearby campgrounds such as Deer Run Campground (3 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.6
13 reviews
Arch Dam Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's suitability for large groups, with spacious sites and group facilities such as pavilions and large fire pits. However, concerns about maintenance, such as trash overflow and locked bathrooms, are frequently mentioned. Proximity to Flaming Gorge Dam and the Green River is seen as a major advantage.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include: 'Great campground for a large group! Proximity to the dam boat launch and Dutch John was nice!'; 'Plenty of trees and bushes'; 'The pavilion & fire pit are the great...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include: locked or poorly stocked bathrooms ('We found all the restrooms locked in the entire campground'); issues with trash ('The garbages however were overflowing at the dumpster...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
User tips include reserving specific sites that meet group needs, preparing for limited shade, and bringing necessary supplies like toilet paper to avoid reliance on campground amenities.
Based on 13 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground experiences heavy use in the summer months, with mixed reviews on maintenance and environmental conditions. Wasps and other pests seem to be a particular problem later in the season.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Love going to Arch Dam campground. My only complaint is the people who stayed there before us were pigs.' 2. 'This place was exactly what I hoped it would be! We just held a huge camp event.' 3....
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 3 is often mentioned for its spacious pavilion and large fire pit, making it popular for group gatherings: 'Site 3 had a huge covered pavilion and the firepit was easily 5 ft across.'
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews are provided, though locked bathrooms were an inconvenience for some guests.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews mention pets.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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