Skull Creek
4.6327 reviewsRED CANYON COMPLEX, DUTCH JOHN, UT 84023, USA
Skull Creek
$0.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Standard Nonelectric sites are available free during peak season but a $15 fee is mentioned in user reviews. Reservation fees may apply, including $8 for online reservations, $9 through the contact center, and $3 for in-person bookings.
About this campground
Tucked away 35 miles north of Vernal, Utah, Skull Creek Campground offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude near the spectacular Flaming Gorge Reservoir. This hidden gem features 17 intimate single-family sites, each thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings where memories are made under starlit skies. While the campground embraces a rustic charm with vault toilets and no drinking water (so come prepared!), it rewards visitors with tranquility and authentic wilderness experiences far from the crowds.
Skull Creek Campground provides options for tent camping and dry camping. There are no hookups available, emphasizing a primitive camping experience.
Historical SignificanceThe waters of nearby Flaming Gorge hold centuries of stories within their depths. Ancient Native American rock art adorns the canyon walls, telling tales of the first peoples who called this land home. Later, outlaws and pioneers left their own marks on the landscape, and today's adventurous rafters floating the Green River below the dam can still spot these fascinating glimpses into the Wild West past, where history feels close enough to touch.
Weather and SeasonsAt Skull Creek, Mother Nature keeps things interesting with refreshingly cool temperatures that provide welcome relief from summer heat. Don't be surprised if you experience four seasons in a single day – morning sunshine might give way to afternoon hail, and yes, even light summer snow flurries have been known to dust the pines. These crisp mountain conditions and dramatically changing skies create an ever-shifting canvas that makes each visit unique.
ElevationPerched at 7,400 feet above sea level, Skull Creek Campground sits in that sweet spot where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and every breath feels cleaner. This elevation creates a unique mountain ecosystem where wildflowers bloom later, mornings arrive with a refreshing chill, and afternoon temperatures remain comfortable even in the height of summer – perfect for those who prefer their camping with a side of natural air conditioning.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking up in a natural amphitheater of towering ponderosa pines and quaking aspens, where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy and wildflowers paint the forest floor in summer splashes of color. The campground's hillside setting provides partially shaded sites that feel like private woodland retreats. Keep your camera ready – the local wildlife put on quite a show, from chattering squirrels and graceful deer to majestic moose and pronghorn antelope. And yes, the occasional curious cow might wander through, adding a touch of Western charm to your wilderness experience.
Geological RegionSkull Creek Campground rests within the breathtaking Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, where nature has painted the landscape in bold strokes of red rock and green forest. At 7,400 feet, the campground occupies a stunning hillside draped in ponderosa pines and aspens, offering a cool contrast to the famous crimson cliffs that give Flaming Gorge its name. This remarkable geological wonderland showcases millions of years of Earth's history, from ancient seabeds to volcanic activity, all carved and sculpted by the relentless forces of wind and water into the dramatic formations that leave visitors speechless today.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no explicit mention of accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeCampsites accommodate up to 2 vehicles and 1 sleeping unit. Some sites have ample space for large tents, such as 8-man tents.
Sites PrivacySites are described as "spread out nicely" and "private," with "plenty of shade and privacy," according to users.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 3 is spacious for large tents. Sites near the highway may experience road noise.
Best CampsitesSites 1, 2, and 3 are noted for their space and suitability for larger tents. First-come, first-served sites include 4, 9, 13, 16, and 17.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
By 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 a maximum of 2 vehicles, equating to one sleeping unit and a passenger vehicle or two passenger vehicles.
Groups
Group camping sites are not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are spaced out, with some designed as pull-throughs. Vault toilets are located near key areas.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 15 and closes September 17 for reservations. It operates as a dry campground during this period.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov and through the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available, including sites 4, 9, 13, 16, and 17.
Cancellation PolicyReservation changes incur a $10 fee, as do cancellations. Late cancellations also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. No refunds for no-shows, and same-day modifications depend on facility policies.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Skull Creek Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, fishing, boating, and camping.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include marked trails leading to Greens Lake and the Red Canyon Rim Trail, which is popular for wildlife watching and scenic views.Fishing
Fishing is available at Greens Lake, where rainbow and brook trout are common. Flaming Gorge Reservoir nearby also offers world-class fishing for trout species.Swimming
Swimming opportunities exist primarily at Flaming Gorge Reservoir, though specific designated swimming areas are not mentioned.Biking
Bike rentals are available at Red Canyon Lodge, and the trails around Greens Lake and Red Canyon Rim are suitable for biking.Boating
Boating is available at Flaming Gorge Reservoir, which supports various activities including canoeing, kayaking, and even water skiing.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with users reporting sightings of chipmunks, squirrels, deer, antelope, and moose. The Red Canyon Rim Trail is a recommended spot for observing wildlife.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Red Canyon Visitor Center offers interpretive displays and area information.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports opportunities include canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding at Flaming Gorge Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated pits. Firewood is available at Greens Lake Campground.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife (cows, moose, etc.), and challenging road conditions due to potholes reported by users.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.7 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 facilities include hospitals and police stations located in Vernal, UT (approximately 35 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season runs from May 15 to September 17.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available, but recycling options were not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresSkull Creek is dry, but nearby Flaming Gorge Reservoir provides opportunities for water activities such as boating and fishing.
Common complaintsComplaints include road noise, lack of drinking water, poorly maintained sites, outhouse flies, and cattle droppings.
HostHost information is not explicitly mentioned.
Campground Map
RED CANYON COMPLEX, DUTCH JOHN, UT 84023, USA
Driving directionsLocated off Highway 44, just west of the junction of Highways 44 and 191 in the Flaming Gorge area, about 35 miles north of Vernal, Utah.
The campground is located just off Highway 44. Roads within the campground are paved but reported to have potholes. Some reviews mention gravel roads in the campsite area.Nearby places
Vernal, UT - approximately 35 miles north
Dutch John, UT - closest populated area, distance unspecified.
Nearby supplies
The nearest water sources are at Greendale and Lodgepole Campgrounds. Firewood can be purchased at Greens Lake Campground. Showers are available at Deer Run and Mustang Ridge Campgrounds for registered campers.
Camper Reviews
4.6
27 reviews
Skull Creek is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the rustic charm, wildlife presence, and overall cleanliness of the campground. While many praised the privacy, shade, and peaceful environment, some expressed concerns about road noise, cattle roaming, and vault toilet maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 27 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the scenic surroundings, abundant wildlife, clean vault toilets, and private campsites. "The stars were amazing at night," and the campground is described as...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints involve the lack of water facilities, occasional road noise, cattle roaming through campsites, and vault toilet odors.
Based on 27 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and hand sanitizer for the bathrooms. Consider camping at sites 4, 9, 13, 16, and 17 as they are first come, first serve. For showers, drive to Deer Run Campground. Arrive early...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews highlight cooler temperatures and shaded sites during summer, making it ideal for escaping the heat. Occasional hail and snow are noted depending on the season, impacting hiking and outdoor...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Our family of 6 had a great time at this campground. It was so pretty and the stars were amazing at night." - Jessica L.
"Beautiful campsite tucked away in the forest. Abundant wildlife around." -...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 1, 2, and 3 have ample space for 8-man tents. Site 003 is described as 'really close to the lake.' Vault toilets at sites 4 and 8 vary in cleanliness and odor level. Site-specific reviews...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features were not explicitly reviewed, but general usability and comfort were noted.
Based on 27 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but specific reviews about pet policies or pet-friendly features are not mentioned.
Based on 27 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025