Firefighters Campground

Star4.06
59 reviews
ASHLEY
Firefighters Campground
$0.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary; standard campsites are $0 during peak season (May 15 - Sept 17, 2025) but additional fees apply for reservations, changes, and late...
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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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$0.00

Share this campground
Recreation.gov
Provider
435-889-3000comments@AmericanLL.com

About this campground

Perched three miles from the shimmering waters of Flaming Gorge Reservoir, Firefighters Campground stands as both a gateway to adventure and a poignant tribute to courage. This meaningful destination within the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area honors three brave firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice during the 1977 Cart Creek Fire. Today, their memory lives on through the laughter of families casting fishing lines, the splash of swimmers in crystal-clear waters, and the steady footsteps of hikers exploring mountain trails. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn or settling in for sunset views, this special place connects visitors to both natural wonder and human resilience.
Firefighters Campground offers a variety of accommodations suitable for families and individuals. It is described as a family-friendly location with facilities for both RV and tent camping.
Historical SignificanceThis isn't just another scenic campground—it's hallowed ground that tells a story of bravery and sacrifice. Established as a living memorial to three firefighters who perished battling the Cart Creek Fire in 1977, every campsite and trail serves as a reminder of those who risk everything to protect our wild places. Their legacy transforms a simple camping trip into something more profound, inviting visitors to reflect on the dedication of wildland firefighters while creating their own memories beneath the same vast sky.
Weather and SeasonsThe mountain climate here dances between extremes, creating a dynamic backdrop for your outdoor adventures. Summer brings the campground to life with pleasantly moderate temperatures perfect for all-day explorations, though Mother Nature occasionally flexes with spirited winds that whistle through the pines or unexpected heat waves that make those reservoir dips even more refreshing. Smart campers check the seasonal water status before arrival, as availability fluctuates throughout the year—a reminder that you're truly immersed in the raw beauty of the high country.
ElevationAt 6,900 feet above sea level, Firefighters Campground offers a natural air conditioning system and front-row seats to some of Utah's most breathtaking panoramas. This lofty perch delivers crisp morning air that invigorates your sunrise coffee ritual and afternoon temperatures that remain comfortable even when the valleys below swelter. The elevation creates perfect conditions for spectacular star-gazing and provides sweeping vistas that make every meal feel like fine dining with nature as your backdrop.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has crafted the perfect outdoor living room on this gently-sloping hillside, where towering ponderosa pines mingle with sturdy junipers to create a natural cathedral at 6,900 feet. Wildlife considers this their neighborhood too—don't be surprised by deer grazing at dawn or the flash of a bluebird's wing. The thoughtfully scattered shade provides cool refuges for afternoon reading, while breaks in the canopy frame postcard-worthy vistas. Every trail beckons with the promise of discovery, whether you're seeking a heart-pumping climb or a meditative stroll through this high-altitude sanctuary.
Geological RegionNestled within the dramatic landscape of Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, the campground occupies a privileged position on nature's tiered amphitheater. This gently-sloping hillside, adorned with stately ponderosa pines and aromatic juniper trees, sits at an impressive 6,900 feet where the ancient geological forces that carved Flaming Gorge have created a perfect balance of accessibility and wilderness. The surrounding terrain tells a million-year story written in stone and soil, offering campers an intimate connection with the powerful forces that shaped this remarkable corner of the American West.

Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground includes six accessible sites, and roads and parking spurs are paved for ease of use.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious with room for larger trailers, although some are noted to be narrow and challenging to back into due to asphalt curbing.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies—some users praise the spacing and natural setting of the sites, while others note that the sites can be close together in busy periods.
Total Campsites120 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor tent camping, ensure your chosen site includes a designated tent pad. Sites with steep drop-offs may not be suitable for families with young children.
Best CampsitesSites near Loop A tend to receive the best reviews. Campsites such as 011, 001, and 081 are highlighted for their proximity to amenities and scenic qualities.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out by 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Up to 16 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
  • Maximum of 2 vehicles per single site
  • 2 vehicles equates to 1 sleeping unit + 1 passenger vehicle or 2 passenger vehicles.
Groups
No specific information on designated group sites is provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampground is organized into three loops (A, B, C), with paved roads and parking spurs. Some sites have challenging parking due to narrow spaces and asphalt barriers.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 15 to September 17 during peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis campground has first-come, first-serve sites with no guaranteed availability.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee applies; late cancellation forfeits the first night's recreation fee. Changes cost $10 if the new dates differ from the original booking.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Firefighters Campground provides a plethora of recreational activities. Just three miles from Flaming Gorge Reservoir, it is ideal for water-based activities like boating, fishing, swimming, and scuba diving. Bear Canyon Trail, located across the road, offers hiking and biking opportunities with a three-mile round trip to Red Canyon and Flaming Gorge views.
Hiking
Bear Canyon Trail is a three-mile round-trip hike starting across the road from the campground. Visitors have remarked on the trail's accessibility and scenic views. "We took great hikes every day."
Fishing
Flaming Gorge Reservoir, three miles away, offers world-class fishing for lake, brown, and rainbow trout.
Swimming
Swimming is one of the popular activities at Flaming Gorge Reservoir, though specific designated swimming areas are not mentioned.
Biking
Bear Canyon Trail also allows for biking and is described as easy and well-maintained.
Boating
Flaming Gorge Reservoir offers extensive boating opportunities, including kayaking, canoeing, jet skiing, and water skiing.
Wildlife viewing
Visitors have reported seeing wildlife such as big horn sheep and osprey in nearby areas, particularly on trails like Greendale Rest Area overlook.
Cultural and Educational Programs
Bootleg Amphitheater, located across the road, hosts educational programs throughout the summer season. The scenic overlook dedicated to the firefighters also adds historical and cultural value.
Winter Activities
No winter recreation activities are mentioned.
Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing are actively pursued at Flaming Gorge Reservoir.

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings; firewood is available for purchase from the host.
  • Quiet hours begin at 10 PM.

Hazards

General hazardsSome campsites are near steep drop-offs, posing risks to families with small children.
Active alertsSeasonal water outages reported in numerous reviews.

Weather forecast

56
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 67%

Moderately humid conditions

Wind: 3.5 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Overcast
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Temperature Trends

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Weather Summaries

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Emergency Services

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Good to know

Peak season datesMay 15 - September 17
Trash and recyclingInformation on trash and recycling facilities is not detailed, but several reviews highlight the campground's general cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is 3 miles from Flaming Gorge Reservoir, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Common complaintsWater and bathroom outages have been a recurring issue. Reviewers also mention outdated facilities, challenging parking for larger trailers, and insufficient tent pads in some sites.
HostCampground hosts are generally praised for their helpfulness, particularly Mickey and his wife, who assisted guests with site issues.

Campground Map

ASHLEY
Driving directionsFrom Vernal, Utah, take U.S. 191 north about 41 miles. From Manila, Utah, take Highway 44 for 28 miles. Turn left on U.S. 191 and travel approximately 3 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 about 71 miles, passing through Dutch John.
Roads and parking spurs within the campground are paved. Roads are accessible, but some reviews mention narrow spots or asphalt barriers making parking challenging for larger trailers.
Nearby places
Vernal, Utah: ~41 miles
Manila, Utah: ~28 miles
Rock Springs, Wyoming: ~77 miles
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews

4.1
59 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Firefighters Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Firefighters Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment score of 3.92. Positive highlights include its natural beauty, spacious sites, and proximity to Flaming Gorge. Negative feedback often revolves around poor water availability, restroom conditions, and miscommunication about reservations.
Review Summaries
Based on 59 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive reviews praise the campground's natural setting, spacious sites, and proximity to recreational areas. One user noted, "The camp hosts were very friendly and helpful. Campground was...
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Based on 59 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include issues with water availability, outdated restrooms, and narrow campsites that are difficult to navigate with large trailers. A user stated, "The restrooms were out of order...
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Based on 59 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing extra water and confirming site dimensions before arrival. Tent campers should ensure their site includes a tent pad, as some sites do not accommodate tents easily.
Based on 59 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest peak season water shortages and restroom issues. Late summer visits commonly report overcrowding and maintenance concerns. Early summer is generally viewed more favorably.
Based on 59 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Great campground with large, well spaced out sites!" - Brad "Butch" Colburn. "The bathrooms were clean." - Alyson N. "We took great hikes every day... a 6.5 mile Canyon Rim Trail and a 3.5 mile Bear...
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Based on 59 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific feedback varies widely; for example, site #081 in Loop C received praise for its cleanliness and proximity to water, while site #003 in Loop A was criticized for outdated restrooms.
Based on 59 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is praised for paved roads and parking spurs, but some reviews note maintenance challenges in restroom access paths.
Based on 59 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific feedback related to pets is included in the reviews.
Based on 59 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

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