Deer Run Campground
3.9466 reviewsASHLEY NATL FOREST PO BOX 279, MANILA, UT 84046, USA
Deer Run Campground
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
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
Camping is $25 per night, with an additional $4 per day for extra vehicles. Marina boat slip rentals cost $20 per night, and Cedar Springs Marina charges a $5 daily use fee with options for weekly or annual passes.
About this campground
Perched at 6,200 feet in the heart of Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, Deer Run Campground serves as your gateway to endless adventure. Here, where juniper and pinyon pine dot the landscape, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned to explore the shimmering waters of the reservoir below. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, launching your boat for a day of exploration, or setting off on scenic hiking trails, this high-elevation retreat offers the perfect basecamp for your Flaming Gorge experience.
Deer Run Campground accommodates a mix of camping styles, including tent and RV camping, though it does not have hookups.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the nearby Flaming Gorge Dam Visitor Center, where the wild tales of outlaws mingle with the ancient wisdom preserved in Native American rock art. Discover how this rugged landscape shaped the lives of those who came before through fascinating exhibits that bring history to life. For the curious minded, guided tours of the impressive hydroelectric plant reveal the engineering marvel that tamed the Green River and created the recreational paradise you see today.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature puts on quite a show at Deer Run, where dramatic summer thunderstorms roll across the vast sky and canyon winds tell ancient stories. Summer days warm your adventures while nights bring that perfect sleeping-bag weather that makes camping memorable. As autumn arrives, crisp air signals the changing seasons, and winter transforms the landscape with dustings of snow and crystalline frost, creating a wonderland for the hardy souls who venture here in the off-season.
ElevationAt 6,200 feet above sea level, Deer Run Campground offers a refreshing escape from summer's heat, where mountain air carries the scent of sage and pine. This elevated perch means you'll enjoy naturally air-conditioned camping during peak season, though wise campers pack layers for those deliciously cool mountain evenings. As seasons shift, this altitude brings the possibility of early autumn frost and winter's white blanket, transforming the campground into a high-country haven.
Natural Features and SceneryCommanding views of Flaming Gorge Reservoir unfold before you at Deer Run, where the high desert meets mountain splendor. The campground's natural tapestry weaves together hardy junipers, aromatic pinyon pines, and silvery sagebrush—plants perfectly adapted to this dramatic landscape. While the vegetation offers modest shade, it provides the perfect viewing windows for wildlife watching. Keep your camera ready for the campground's namesake residents—a charming deer herd that frequently graces visitors with their presence at dawn and dusk.
Geological RegionDeer Run Campground sits within the geological wonderland of Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, where ancient forces carved a masterpiece in stone. The area's signature red cliffs, painted by millions of years of iron oxide deposits, create a stunning backdrop that shifts from crimson to amber with the changing light. Below, the engineered wonder of Flaming Gorge Reservoir fills the canyon, its deep blue waters contrasting brilliantly with the surrounding high desert ecosystem of juniper, pinyon pine, and endless sagebrush seas.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySite 4 is noted to be accessible for wheelchair users and large enough for an RV or a 4-6 person tent. Reviews appreciated its convenience for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites vary in size. Some reviews highlighted spacious sites while others noted that certain sites were too small for larger setups.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy seems to vary by site. Some users appreciated the spacing and juniper trees providing separation, while others found the sites too close.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 16 is praised for its spacious layout. Sites near the juniper trees offer privacy, but shade is limited throughout the campground. Sites downwind of restrooms should be avoided due to occasional odor issues.
Best Campsites"Loved our campsite, Site #16. Big site and multiple places to set up our tent." — User Review from 2021.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
11 AM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 16 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each single site accommodates 2 vehicles, which could include one sleeping unit (trailer, RV, pop-up) and one passenger vehicle, or two passenger vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutPaved sites with a mix of pull-through and back-in options. Sites feature picnic tables, fire rings, and nearby vault toilets.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open from May 10 to October 4, 2025. Outside these dates, water and showers are unavailable, and the campground is not reservable.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov and associated platforms.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis campground has first-come, first-served sites, but reservable sites are highly recommended due to popularity. Site availability may be limited during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations for individual campsites incur an additional penalty: forfeiting the first night’s fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Deer Run Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The Flaming Gorge Reservoir and nearby trails enhance the recreational experience.
Hiking
The Bear Canyon Trail is a 3-mile round-trip hiking and biking trail nearby, offering views of Red Canyon and Flaming Gorge.Fishing
The Flaming Gorge Reservoir is popular for lake, brown, and rainbow trout fishing, described as 'world-class.'Swimming
Swimming is available at the Flaming Gorge Reservoir, which is less than a mile from the campground.Biking
Hiking trails like Bear Canyon also allow mountain biking, making it a dual-purpose trail.Boating
Boating, water skiing, jet skiing, canoeing, kayaking, and scuba diving are popular activities at the nearby Flaming Gorge Reservoir. The Cedar Springs Marina provides rentals and docking facilities.Wildlife viewing
A resident deer herd is commonly seen, providing easy wildlife viewing opportunities.Cultural and Educational Programs
Flaming Gorge Dam offers guided tours of the hydroelectric plant and a visitor center with historical exhibits.Winter Activities
No specific mention of winter activities.Water Sports
Activities like jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are supported at Flaming Gorge Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated rings. Firewood should be sourced locally.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 7 AM
Hazards
General hazardsSudden storms and high winds are common. Wildlife such as deer may venture near campsites, creating potential hazards if not managed properly.
Active alertsWater outages have been reported in recent years, affecting showers and drinking water availability. Visitors are advised to check conditions before arrival.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.2 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
The nearest emergency services, including hospitals and police stations, are located in Manila, UT, approximately 28 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 10, 2025 - October 04, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available. Recycling options are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLess than a mile from Flaming Gorge Reservoir, offering easy access to Cedar Springs Marina for water-based activities such as boating, swimming, and fishing.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention issues with water availability, poor host management, and overcrowded showers during peak hours. Several reviewers expressed dissatisfaction with the closure of restrooms and showers during their stays.
HostHosts are described variably. Some reviews praise them for friendliness and helpfulness, while others criticize inconsistencies in maintenance and management of amenities.
Campground Map
ASHLEY NATL FOREST PO BOX 279, MANILA, UT 84046, USA
Driving directionsFrom Vernal, Utah, take U.S. 191 north 42 miles. Turn north onto Forest Road 183 and travel approximately 2 miles to the campground, adjacent to Cedar Springs Marina. From Manila, Utah, take Highway 44 for 28 miles. Turn left on U.S. 191 and go north for about 4 miles. Turn north onto Forest Road 183 and travel approximately 2 miles to the campground, adjacent to Cedar Springs Marina. 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 67 miles, passing through Dutch John. Turn north onto Forest Road 183 and travel approximately 2 miles to the campground, adjacent to Cedar Springs Marina.
Roads to the campground are paved and suitable for various types of vehicles. However, some user reviews mention steep hills near the highway, potentially posing challenges for larger RVs. Seasonal closures or water outages may affect usability.Nearby places
Manila, UT (approximately 28 miles)
Vernal, UT (approximately 42 miles)
Rock Springs, WY (approximately 67 miles).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel stations are available in Dutch John (within 5 miles) and Manila, UT (approximately 28 miles). Dutch John stores are noted by user reviews to be expensive, but staff are described as extremely helpful.
Camper Reviews
3.9
66 reviews
Deer Run Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, with comments praising the campground’s location and natural beauty but criticizing maintenance and facility issues, particularly with showers and restrooms.
Review Summaries
Based on 66 reviews
What Campers Love
Many reviewers highlight the campground's scenic location, spacious and private sites, and family-friendly atmosphere. Quotes include, 'We had a large, shady, private campsite,' and, 'The campground...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints primarily focus on poor maintenance of restrooms and showers, closure of facilities without prior notice, and unsatisfactory camp host service. One user mentioned, 'Restrooms were full of...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own cleaning supplies due to potential restroom maintenance issues, and come prepared for the lack of hookups. Firewood is available for purchase on-site.
Based on 66 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months appear to be the busiest, with reports of long lines for showers and facilities. Shoulder seasons may have fewer maintenance and crowding issues.
Based on 66 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'We love the campground; it’s always clean and tidy.' 2. 'Shade is limited, so bring an awning.' 3. 'Sites are VERY private because of the 10-15 foot tall, beautiful juniper trees.'
Based on 66 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 4 is noted as wheelchair accessible, while Sites 14-16 reportedly have mismatched map locations. Many users recommend avoiding sites near the restrooms due to odor issues.
Based on 66 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-accessible sites like Site 4 are praised for their convenience, but limited information is available about broader accessibility features.
Based on 66 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no additional details or reviews specifically addressing pet-related experiences are available.
Based on 66 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025