Moon Lake Campground
4.5595 reviews85 West Main, Duchesne, UT, 84021, USA
Moon Lake Campground
$20.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
Standard Nonelectric sites range between $20-$32 per night. Tent-only Nonelectric sites are $20 per night. Additional fees may apply for reservations, changes, and cancellations.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Moon Lake, this mountain sanctuary beckons adventurers with its crystal-clear waters and endless recreational possibilities. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, paddling across mirror-like waters, or exploring wilderness trails on foot or horseback, Moon Lake Campground serves as your gateway to the majestic Uinta Mountains and the untamed beauty of the High Uintas Wilderness.
Moon Lake Campground includes a mix of standard nonelectric, tent-only nonelectric, and group sites. Adjacent Moon Lake Resort provides cabin lodging and rustic accommodations.
Historical SignificanceWhile the campground's modern amenities welcome today's adventurers, the surrounding landscape whispers stories of the past, inviting visitors to create their own memories in this timeless mountain setting.
Weather and SeasonsSpring arrives with dramatic flair, painting the landscape with alternating brushstrokes of rain and snow, while summer transforms the campground into a sun-drenched paradise punctuated by refreshing afternoon cloudbursts. The lake's invigorating alpine waters offer a bracing respite from warm days, reminding visitors they're truly in mountain country.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 8,100 feet above sea level, the campground offers that perfect sweet spot where crisp mountain air invigorates your senses and sweeping alpine vistas steal your breath away. Here, the thin air carries the scent of pine and the promise of adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryAt 8,100 feet, where lodgepole pines stand sentinel alongside shimmering aspens and stately Douglas firs, the campground reveals nature's grand theater. Morning mist often reveals grazing deer and majestic moose, while hummingbirds dart between wildflower meadows and curious ground squirrels provide endless entertainment. This living tapestry changes with each season, offering new discoveries around every bend.
Geological RegionCradled on the southern slopes of the ancient Uinta Mountains, the campground overlooks a stunning two-mile-long alpine jewel. This glacially-carved lake reflects the surrounding forest of lodgepole pines, quaking aspens, and Douglas firs, creating a photographer's paradise where geological history meets present-day beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include paved roads, accessible water spigots, and flush toilets. However, specific accessibility for disabled individuals is not highlighted in the sources.
Sites SizeParking spurs are generally 16 x 65 feet, and tent pads vary in size, with some being as small as 10 x 10 feet and others accommodating larger tents (e.g., 12 x 14).
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across the campground. Group sites offer seclusion, while individual sites are closer together. Some users noted that sites are not so close as to feel crowded.
Total Campsites233815 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose upper loop sites for privacy and forested ambiance. Group Site B recommended for proximity to the lake.
Best CampsitesGroup sites praised for seclusion and large capacity.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in details unavailable.
Check-out
Official check-out details unavailable.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Only 6 people to a site unless you rent a double.
Groups
Group sites are secluded and accommodate multiple RVs and tents, with water spigots and pit toilets provided. The lower group site is preferred for its proximity to the lake and lower traffic.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features paved roads and loops with varied site types, including back-in and pull-through sites.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground open between May 23, 2025, and September 7, 2025. Reservable sites begin June 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov website and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityDue to increased use, there is no guarantee that first-come-first-served sites will be available.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and lose the first night’s fee if late. Changes cost $10 if date range is outside the original booking. No modifications allowed 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.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Moon Lake Campground provides an array of recreational activities. Popular options include fishing for trout and kokanee salmon, hiking trails offering striking vistas, swimming, boating, and wildlife viewing. Unique features include horseback riding offered by Flying J Outfitters and small engine boat rentals at the adjacent Moon Lake Resort.
Hiking
The campground offers access to trails such as the Lake Fork Trail and Brown Duck Mountain Loop, which traverse the High Uintas Wilderness and feature alpine lakes. The Fish Creek National Recreation Trail climbs from 8,200 to 10,400 feet over 5.6 miles.Fishing
Fishing opportunities abound, with annual stocking of tiger and rainbow trout. Other species include brook trout, kokanee salmon, and splake. Fishing is possible both from the shore and on boats rented from the adjacent resort.Swimming
Swimming is available, primarily at designated beach areas. Low water levels in recent years have left the shoreline rocky and muddy, according to user reviews.Biking
Biking is permitted on certain trails at Moon Lake, making it a rare feature among campgrounds.Boating
Boating activities include canoeing, motor-boating, and small engine boat rentals from Moon Lake Resort. The boat ramp is described as challenging to use, requiring careful navigation.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing includes deer, moose, squirrels, and hummingbirds. Bird feeders in the campground enhance opportunities to observe species like hummingbirds.Beach activities
Beach activities are available but may be limited due to low water levels, leaving rocky and muddy shores.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snowshoeing are implied but not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports include kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing, as highlighted by user experiences.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed within provided fire rings with grills; firewood available for purchase at Moon Lake Resort.
- Quiet hours are enforced between 10 PM and 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsFlash floods reported during severe rainstorms. Generators may disrupt quiet hours. Gnats and biting flies are common.
Active alertsFlash flood warnings reported in reviews. Potential closures or evacuations due to fires noted.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 15 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Closest emergency services are located in Duchesne, UT, approximately 36 miles from the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 07, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available throughout the campground, and multiple water spigots are provided for convenience.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Moon Lake; nearby streams and walking trails enhance the water experience.
Common complaintsNoise from generators, small tent pad size, and washouts during storms. Hosts praised but occasionally noted as unhelpful.
HostHosts Shar and Todd are frequently mentioned as helpful and hospitable.
Campground Map
85 West Main, Duchesne, UT, 84021, USA
Driving directionsFrom Duchesne, Utah, take State Hwy 87 north to Mountain Home, then north 12 miles to the Forest Boundary and Forest Road 131. The campground is about 36 miles from Duchesne on paved roads although some spots have potholes.
Campground is accessible via paved roads, but some sections have potholes.Nearby places
Duchesne (36 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Moon Lake Resort adjacent to the campground offers convenience groceries, ice, soda pop, fishing bait, and gear.
Camper Reviews
4.6
95 reviews
Moon Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Moon Lake Campground's beautiful scenery, clean facilities, and diverse activities. Guests appreciated the quiet environment, helpful camp hosts, and opportunities for fishing, hiking, and boating.
Review Summaries
Based on 95 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive mentions include: clean bathrooms, friendly camp hosts, scenic trails, abundant wildlife, and well-maintained campsites.
Based on 95 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include generator noise, small tent pads, limited shade, flies and gnats, and the lack of cell service.
Based on 95 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray to combat biting flies and gnats; plan water and electricity usage as no power hookups are available; consider adjacent Moon Lake Resort for additional amenities; note low water...
Based on 95 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with campers praising the warm weather and accessible activities. Spring and fall may bring cooler temperatures and fewer bugs.
Based on 95 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The campground is clean, cool, and best of all, the hosts are very very nice." - Deborah Rowley
"Beautiful camp ground worth the drive for the view alone." - Ben Rudy
"Been camping here every summer...
Based on 95 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Group sites are noted for their seclusion and ample space for multiple RVs and tents. Individual sites vary in size and privacy, with Loop L offering proximity to the lake and Loop U providing...
Based on 95 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features such as flush toilets and paved roads were appreciated, although specific accommodations for disabled campers were not detailed.
Based on 95 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but multiple reviews mentioned issues with unleashed dogs, emphasizing the importance of adhering to leash rules.
Based on 95 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025