Canyon Rim
4.3647 reviewsRED CANYON COMPLEX, DUTCH JOHN, UT 84023, USA
Canyon Rim
$19.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
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
The nightly fee for camping ranges from $19 to $22 depending on site type and season. Additional charges may apply for extra vehicles ($7 per vehicle).
About this campground
Perched high in a wildflower-dotted meadow at 7,400 feet, Canyon Rim Campground beckons adventurers with its sweeping vistas and generous campsites. Here, where cool mountain breezes sweep across grassy expanses, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned to explore the dramatic landscapes of Flaming Gorge Reservoir. Trail enthusiasts will discover a network of paths leading to breathtaking overlooks, while those seeking tranquility can simply relax beneath the vast Utah sky.
Canyon Rim Campground accommodates various camping preferences, catering primarily to tent and RV campers. The campground is primitive in nature, lacking modern hookups but offering vault toilets and seasonal water access.
Historical SignificanceThis landscape tells stories spanning millennia, from ancient Native American peoples who left their mark in mysterious rock art panels to notorious outlaws who once sought refuge in these remote canyons. The nearby Flaming Gorge Dam stands as a modern marvel against this ancient backdrop, where visitors can delve into fascinating historical exhibits and join guided tours that bring the region's colorful past to life. Every vista here whispers tales of geological wonder and human adventure.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives gently at this elevation, bringing perfect camping weather with warm 80°F days that invite exploration and refreshingly cool 50°F nights ideal for campfire stories. The high desert climate means you'll enjoy low humidity and clear skies, though be prepared for the occasional mountain breeze that can pick up across the open meadows. Pack layers to stay comfortable as temperatures shift from sun-warmed afternoons to crisp starlit evenings.
ElevationAt 7,400 feet above sea level, Canyon Rim occupies that sweet spot where mountain air stays refreshingly cool even during summer's peak. This elevation gifts campers with comfortable temperatures that make outdoor activities enjoyable throughout the day, while nights remain cool enough for cozy sleeping bag comfort without the harsh cold of higher alpine zones.
Natural Features and SceneryScattered groves of stately lodgepole and ponderosa pines provide pockets of dappled shade throughout the campground, their vanilla-scented bark and whisper-soft needles creating a sensory backdrop to your stay. In summer, the surrounding meadows burst into color as wildflowers paint the landscape in vibrant hues. Beyond the immediate campground, the stunning turquoise waters of Flaming Gorge Reservoir stretch into the distance, framed by towering canyon walls that seem to change color with each passing hour.
Geological RegionWelcome to Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, where nature has carved a masterpiece of crimson cliffs and azure waters. The campground sits within this geological wonderland, where ancient sedimentary layers tell the story of prehistoric seas and desert winds. Surrounding you are the distinctive red rock formations that give Flaming Gorge its name, complemented by stands of fragrant ponderosa and lodgepole pines. In summer, meadow wildflowers add splashes of purple, yellow, and white to this already spectacular canvas of stone, water, and sky.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere are no explicit mentions of ADA-compliant features for accessibility in authoritative or user reviews.
Sites SizeSites vary in size but are generally spacious, with some users praising their ability to accommodate larger rigs while others noted tight turns for bigger RVs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across campsites. Reviews highlight some sites offering good spacing and seclusion, while others are closely clustered, leading to complaints about lack of privacy.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 9 and 11 are particularly noted for privacy and proximity to scenic vistas. Sites 7 and 8 also offer excellent canyon views.
Best CampsitesSites 9 and 11 are frequently recommended for their views and spacious layouts.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
By 11 AM.
Stay Limit
The maximum stay allowed is 16 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is 2 vehicles per site, configured as either one sleeping unit and one passenger vehicle or two passenger vehicles.
Groups
No information provided about designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCamping sites are spread out over a grassy meadow with loops and sections. Some sites are near the canyon rim.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins May 15 and ends September 17 for reservable sites.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or its mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reviews suggest early arrival on weekends is beneficial for walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled or modified with a $10 fee. Late cancellations for individual sites will incur the $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Canyon Rim Campground provides a range of recreational opportunities for campers, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Red Canyon Rim Trail and Flaming Gorge Reservoir offer stunning vistas, fishing, and water-related activities. Guided horseback riding and bike rentals are available at the nearby Red Canyon Lodge.
Hiking
The Red Canyon Rim Trail is a major highlight, with marked trails leading to scenic overlooks of Flaming Gorge. It is accessible directly from the campground and praised for its beautiful vistas.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include nearby Greens Lake, which is stocked with rainbow and brook trout. Flaming Gorge Reservoir offers world-class fishing for lake, brown, and rainbow trout.Swimming
Swimming access is available approximately 15 minutes away at Flaming Gorge Dam.Biking
Paved roads within the campground and nearby trails provide suitable biking opportunities. Rentals are available at Red Canyon Lodge.Boating
The Flaming Gorge Reservoir permits activities such as boating, canoeing, kayaking, and water skiing. Canoe rentals are available at Red Canyon Lodge.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently see Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep grazing near campsites. Other wildlife sightings include mule deer and marmots.Cultural and Educational Programs
The nearby visitor center offers interpretive displays and area information, enhancing the educational experience.Winter Activities
No explicit winter activities are mentioned, though snow data indicates potential for light snow activities.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are popular at Flaming Gorge Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in rings provided at each campsite. Firewood must be obtained locally to prevent pest spread.
- Quiet hours are enforced, but specific times are not listed.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include steep canyon overlooks, high winds, and wildlife such as bighorn sheep. Campers are advised to store food securely.
Active alertsNo active alerts are reported, although reviews mention occasional maintenance issues and reservation mix-ups.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
The nearest emergency services include the Dutch John Medical Clinic (roughly 10 miles) and Uintah County Sheriff's Office stationed in Vernal (40 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 to September 17 each year.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal areas are available, but recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresFlaming Gorge Reservoir is within a mile, offering opportunities for canoeing, fishing, and hiking.
Common complaintsComplaints include close site spacing in certain areas, limited restroom supplies, and reservation confusion.
HostThe campground host is described as genial and efficient but has received mixed reviews regarding responsiveness.
Campground Map
RED CANYON COMPLEX, DUTCH JOHN, UT 84023, USA
Driving directionsLocated on Forest Road 095/Red Canyon Road off Highway 44, approximately 40 miles north of Vernal, Utah.
Road access is via Forest Road 095/Red Canyon Road off Highway 44. The roads are described as having good quality access, but might not be suitable for all vehicle types during inclement weather.Nearby places
Dutch John (approximately 10 miles), Vernal (approximately 40 miles), Manila (approximately 15 miles)
Nearby supplies
The closest supplies can be found at the Red Canyon Lodge (1 mile away), which offers a general market, a restaurant, and canoe and bike rentals. Additional supplies are available in Dutch John (10 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.4
47 reviews
Canyon Rim is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Canyon Rim Campground’s scenic beauty and proximity to Flaming Gorge Reservoir. Common themes include peaceful surroundings, well-maintained facilities, and stunning views. However, issues such as reservation errors, privacy concerns, and seasonal water availability frequently arise.
Review Summaries
Based on 47 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praise the campground's scenic beauty, spacious sites, clean facilities, and unique access to the Flaming Gorge Rim Trail. Many reviews mention wildlife encounters, including bighorn sheep...
Based on 47 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Reservation mix-ups, lack of privacy between closely spaced sites, occasional toilet paper shortages in vault toilets, and seasonal water availability are common concerns among campers.
Based on 47 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend reserving sites in advance to ensure availability, particularly for larger rigs. Site numbers 9, 11, and 15 are frequently mentioned as offering excellent views and spacious layouts....
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Seasonal Insights
Summer months receive the highest praise for weather and wildlife viewing opportunities. Reviews from late spring and early fall point out potential issues with water availability and cooler...
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Camper Quotes
"We have the camping spot 9 - highly recommend! We were right overlooking the gorge and I cannot describe how beautiful it was." - Jensen Lawless
"Bring cash. No camp host. Two pit toilets. Quiet and...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 9: Recommended for its proximity to the gorge and breathtaking views. Site 11: Praised for its level layout, eliminating the need for adjustment during camper setup. Site 14: Criticized for...
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Accessibility Features
There are no direct mentions of accessibility features or reviews specifically addressing experiences from users with disabilities.
Based on 47 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Users report positive experiences with pets, including dog-friendly hiking trails and spacious campsites.
Based on 47 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025