Dripping Springs Campground (Ut)

Star4.23
55 reviews
ASHLEY NATL FOREST PO BOX 279, MANILA, UT 84046, USA
Dripping Springs Campground (Ut)
$0.00 - $189.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard non-electric sites are free in some cases, while group sites range between $156 and $189 per night. Recreational passes are required for...
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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$156.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$156.00

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Provider
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About this campground

Perched above the stunning Flaming Gorge Reservoir, Dripping Springs Campground beckons adventurers seeking the raw beauty of Utah's high desert. This pristine outpost serves as your gateway to world-class rafting on the legendary Green River, where rainbow trout dance beneath crystal-clear waters. Renowned for its immaculate facilities and welcoming camp hosts who share insider tips about hidden fishing spots, this desert gem offers sweeping mountain vistas that paint the sky in ever-changing hues from dawn to dusk.
Dripping Springs Campground caters to a range of camping preferences, offering single-family sites and group sites. The sites are designed to accommodate tents and RVs, though there are no utility hookups.
Historical SignificanceThe landscape here tells a story of resilience and rebirth. Wildfires have swept through these lands, leaving their mark on the terrain and creating the distinctive open vistas that define Dripping Springs today. Standing sentinel nearby, the engineering marvel of Flaming Gorge Dam represents humanity's bold vision to harness the Green River's power, creating the spectacular reservoir that now serves as a playground for anglers and boaters from around the world.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this high desert haven into a land of golden days and star-filled nights, where afternoon temperatures invite river adventures while evenings call for campfire stories and light jackets. The desert winds carry whispers of ancient canyons, particularly during afternoon hours when they dance through the sagebrush. Winter cloaks the landscape in dramatic contrasts—brilliant blue skies against snow-dusted sage, creating a photographer's paradise for those brave enough to embrace the crisp mountain air.
ElevationAt 6,000 feet where the air is crisp and clear, Dripping Springs occupies a sweet spot in the high desert ecosystem. This elevation gifts campers with the best of both worlds—sun-warmed days perfect for hiking and water sports, followed by refreshingly cool nights that invite deep sleep under a blanket of stars unmarred by city lights.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground unfolds across a canvas of rolling hills dressed in silver-green sagebrush, where hardy Russian olives and ancient cottonwoods stand as natural monuments, offering precious pockets of shade. Nature's resilience shines through as young trees push skyward, writing the next chapter in this landscape's recovery story. The sparse vegetation frames unobstructed views of the surrounding terrain, where every sunrise and sunset becomes a masterpiece painted across the vast desert sky.
Geological RegionThis remarkable landscape showcases the dramatic geology of Utah's high desert, where ancient forces carved rolling hills from layers of time. The iconic red cliffs that frame Flaming Gorge Reservoir stand as natural sculptures, their iron-rich layers glowing like embers in the morning and evening light. Sagebrush-covered slopes flow like frozen waves toward the water's edge, creating a striking contrast between the muted desert palette and the reservoir's jewel-toned waters.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground offers some accessibility features, though specific details are not extensively documented.
Sites SizeThe sites are generally spacious, with shelters, tables, grills, and fire rings. However, one reviewer mentioned difficulties with larger trailers fitting into certain site angles.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between sites is limited due to sparse vegetation, a result of previous wildfire damage. Several reviews highlight this, stating there is 'not really any privacy between sites as there are no trees.'
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with shelters for shade as vegetation is sparse. Sites closer to restroom facilities may be more convenient.
Best CampsitesSite 9 is frequently praised as the best site in the campground.

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 allows up to 2 vehicles and corresponding sleeping units, with a maximum of 1 trailer or RV and 1 passenger vehicle.
Groups
There are four group sites available, featuring large shelters, tables, campfire rings, and grills.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampsites are arranged in loops, with paved areas and shelters. Group sites feature additional amenities like large grills.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Reservations operate seasonally from late June to mid-September.
Reservation PlatformsReservations managed via Recreation.gov; bookings can be done online, through the app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable year-round when reservations are not in effect; sites are first-come, first-served during off-season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date for a $10 fee, plus forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. Changes can also be made for a $10 change fee. No refunds for cancellations on check-in day.

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

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Dripping Springs Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, biking, and boating. A highlight is the nearby 7-mile Little Hole National Recreation Trail, which follows the Green River. The area is also known for its world-class fishing opportunities, particularly for rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout.
Hiking
The 7-mile Little Hole National Recreation Trail is a notable feature, offering scenic views along the Green River. It can be completed in segments or as a whole.
Fishing
The Green River and Little Hole nearby offer excellent fishing opportunities for rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. Reviews frequently praise the area for its 'world-class fishing.'
Biking
The campground provides access to biking trails, with terrain suitable for mountain biking enthusiasts.
Boating
Nearby Flaming Gorge Reservoir supports boating activities, including rafting and kayaking.
Wildlife viewing
Campers have noted the presence of wildlife around the campground, adding to the natural appeal. One reviewer stated, 'The wildlife near the camp was awesome!'
Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically detailed, but the campground is open year-round, suggesting potential for off-season recreation.
Water Sports
The nearby Flaming Gorge Reservoir supports various water sports, including kayaking and rafting.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Campfires allowed in designated rings; visitors reminded to purchase wood locally to prevent tree-killing pests.
  • Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM

Hazards

General hazardsSparse shade and afternoon Wyoming winds can create challenges. Fire-damaged terrain limits vegetation coverage.

Weather forecast

39
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 27%

Very dry conditions, stay hydrated

Wind: 9.5 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Nearest emergency services are located in Dutch John, including basic medical aid and police presence. Additional emergency facilities like hospitals are in Vernal or Rock Springs.

Good to know

Peak season datesJune 24 to mid-September.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresClose proximity to Flaming Gorge Reservoir and Green River provides excellent opportunities for fishing, rafting, and scenic views.
Common complaintsNoise disturbances due to lack of trees and sound barriers; flush toilets occasionally out of service.
HostLee, the campground host, is consistently praised for his efficiency, kindness, and attentiveness. Several reviews mention him as the highlight of their stay.

Campground Map

ASHLEY NATL FOREST PO BOX 279, MANILA, UT 84046, USA
Driving directionsFrom Vernal, Utah, take U.S. 191 north for 47 miles. Turn off U.S. 191 just north of Dutch John onto Forest Road 075. Travel east about 3 miles to the campground. From Manila, Utah, take Highway 44 for 28 miles. Turn left on U.S. 191 and go north for about 11 miles. Turn off U.S. 191 just north of Dutch John onto Forest Road 075 and go east about 3 miles to the campground. 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 about 62 miles to Dutch John. Turn off U.S. 191 just north of Dutch John onto Forest Road 075 and go east about 3 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, but the accessibility may vary with seasonal weather conditions. Visitors describe the roads as generally well-maintained and suitable for most vehicles.
Nearby places
Dutch John (approx. 5 miles, 10-minute drive)
Vernal (approx. 47 miles, 1-hour drive)
Rock Springs (approx. 62 miles, 1-hour 30-minute drive)
Manila (approx. 28 miles, 40-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, ice, sodas, beer, showers, and laundry are available in Dutch John. Larger grocery stores are located in Vernal or Rock Springs, which are 47 and 62 miles away respectively.

Camper Reviews

4.2
55 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Dripping Springs Campground (Ut) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground has received generally positive reviews, with a 4.14 average sentiment rating. Visitors appreciate the cleanliness, friendly camp host, and proximity to recreational opportunities, but some note the lack of shade and noise issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 55 reviews

What Campers Love

Frequent praise for the camp host's friendliness and attentiveness, clean facilities, and proximity to the Green River and recreational activities. One visitor remarked, 'The host was by far the...
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Based on 55 reviews

Common Concerns

Criticisms include limited shade due to wildfire damage, noise disturbances, and occasional maintenance issues with restrooms. One reviewer described it as 'unbelievably noisy on the weekends,' and...
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Based on 55 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors suggest making reservations during peak seasons, bringing your own shade solutions, and purchasing groceries before arriving as local options are limited. One noted, 'Get your groceries in...
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Based on 55 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summers are popular due to fishing and recreational opportunities, but some visitors find it too hot due to the lack of shade. Winters offer a quieter experience, though activities may be limited.
Based on 55 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The bathrooms are super clean, and Lee, the camp host is amazing!' 2. 'You feel like you're in the middle of nowhere even though you're just a couple miles from town.' 3. 'It may not be the most...
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Based on 55 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite #9 is mentioned as the best site by one reviewer. However, noise and privacy issues are more pronounced in sites like #7 and #8, based on user feedback.
Based on 55 reviews

Accessibility Features

Limited information on accessibility features is available, but users generally find the campground well-maintained.
Based on 55 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies or reviews related to pets were not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Based on 55 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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