Rainbow Park Campground

Star0
3 reviews
PO Box 128, Jensen, UT, 84035
Rainbow Park Campground
$6.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The year-round camping fee for Rainbow Park Campground is $12 per night. Senior and Access pass holders pay a discounted fee of $6 per night. Payment...
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Standard Site Fee$12.00
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$12.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
435-781-7700dino_information@nps.gov

About this campground

Tucked away where the Green River meets the dramatic entrance to Split Mountain Canyon, Rainbow Park Campground promises an intimate escape into one of Utah's most secluded natural sanctuaries. This hidden gem rewards adventurous souls who venture down the winding road to discover a peaceful riverside retreat, where the only sounds are the gentle flow of water and the whisper of wind through ancient rock formations. With the Rainbow Park Boat Ramp just steps away, this compact campground serves as your gateway to both river adventures and the profound solitude of the high desert.
Rainbow Park Campground is a primitive camping facility with four tent-only sites. It is particularly suited for tent campers and small RVs or truck-top campers up to 15 feet long. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis year-round.
Historical SignificanceHere, time unfolds in layers—from the 150-million-year-old dinosaur bones embedded in the monument's cliffsides to the mysterious Fremont petroglyphs that speak of ancient peoples who once called these canyons home. Over 1,500 dinosaur fossils have emerged from these rocks, making this one of the world's most significant paleontological treasures. Weathered remnants of pioneer homesteads and historic ranches dot the landscape, while hiking trails serve as portals to the past, revealing the stories of Native Americans, outlaws, homesteaders, and river runners who have all left their mark on this rugged terrain.
Weather and SeasonsNature paints Rainbow Park with dramatic brushstrokes throughout the year, from crystalline winter mornings when temperatures plunge to a bone-chilling 0°F (-18°C) to blazing summer afternoons that soar above 100°F (38°C). Winter transforms the access roads into challenging passages that snow may render impassable, creating an even deeper sense of isolation for those hardy enough to visit. Summer brings its own drama in the form of sudden thunderstorms that roll across the canyon walls, occasionally unleashing flash floods that remind visitors of the raw power sculpting this landscape.
ElevationRising from the depths of ancient seabeds, Rainbow Park rests at the confluence of geological time and the Green River's patient carving, though specific elevation markers remain as elusive as the desert's morning mist.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground unfolds like a natural amphitheater, surrounded by towering walls of twisted and tilted rock layers that tell the story of Earth's violent geological past. The legendary Mitten Park Fault slices through the landscape like a giant's blade, creating a dramatic backdrop for your wilderness stay. From your campsite, watch as sunrise and sunset transform the canyon walls into a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and purples, while the Green River glides past like liquid jade. This semiarid wonderland of sagebrush, juniper, and cottonwood creates an ever-changing canvas where bighorn sheep navigate impossible cliffs and golden eagles soar on desert thermals.
Geological RegionRainbow Park Campground sits at the heart of Dinosaur National Monument's Utah section, where the forces of time, water, and stone have conspired to create one of North America's most spectacular geological showcases. This semiarid realm exists where the ancient Uinta Mountains meet the Colorado Plateau, resulting in a landscape of exposed rock layers, dramatic faults, and serpentine river canyons. The nearby Mitten Park Fault stands as a testament to the Earth's restless nature, while the Green River continues its eternal work of carving ever deeper into the bones of the continent, exposing millions of years of planetary history with each passing season.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground does not have designated ADA-compliant sites, but the generally level terrain and vault toilets may be accessible with assistance.
Sites SizeSites are small and designed to accommodate tent campers or small RVs and truck-top campers up to 15 feet in length.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is moderate; the small size of the campground (only 4 sites) ensures fewer crowds but may offer limited physical barriers between sites.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the river provide excellent views and direct access to water activities.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight proximity to the Green River and stunning views, but specific site numbers are not detailed.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Open 24 hours
Check-out
Open 24 hours
Stay Limit
14 consecutive days
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site accommodates up to 8 people and 2 vehicles.
Groups
There are no group camping facilities available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSmall campground with only 4 tent-only sites, located near the Green River and Split Mountain Canyon.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but there is no winter maintenance on the unpaved road. First-come, first-served season runs from June 20, 2025, through December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations and payments made using Scan & Pay via the Recreation.gov mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability for all sites. No walk-up reservation limits specified.
Cancellation PolicyThis is a Scan & Pay campground. There are no refunds, modifications, cancellations, or other fee changes allowed with payments via Scan & Pay.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Rainbow Park Campground offers a range of outdoor activities. With its location by the Green River, campers can enjoy fishing, wildlife viewing, and boating. The proximity to Dinosaur National Monument also provides access to hiking trails, scenic drives, and cultural sites like Fremont petroglyphs. Summers may be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F, making early mornings and evenings the best times for outdoor activities.
Hiking
Miles of hiking trails are accessible within Dinosaur National Monument, offering exploration of geological features and cultural sites.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available by the Green River, with potentially diverse species, but specifics are not provided.
Boating
The campground is located near the Rainbow Park Boat Ramp, providing access for private and permitted boating activities on the Green River.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is popular, with the area hosting species such as black bears and other native fauna. Proper food storage is essential.
Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited due to the rugged, unmaintained road and harsh weather conditions. Snowfall may make access challenging.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are likely supported due to the nearby boat ramp.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires permitted only in designated fire grates. Seasonal fire restrictions may apply.

Hazards

General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as black bears, rugged terrain, and impassable roads during wet conditions or winter snow. Summer temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C).

Weather forecast

49
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Humidity: 30%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 5.1 mph

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Closest emergency services are likely in Jensen, UT. Specific facilities such as hospitals or ranger stations are not detailed.

Good to know

Peak season datesNo explicit peak season dates mentioned, but summertime is hot with temperatures exceeding 100°F (38°C).
Trash and recyclingThere are seasonal trash and recycling facilities available to manage waste. Campers are required to pack out their trash during off-season visits.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is beside the Green River and near the Rainbow Park Boat Ramp.
Common complaintsLimited number of campsites and challenging road access.
HostNo campground host mentioned; facilities are self-service.

Campground Map

PO Box 128, Jensen, UT, 84035
Driving directionsRainbow Park Campground is 28 miles (45 km) from the Quarry Visitor Center in the Utah portion of the monument. From the Quarry Visitor Center, drive south on State Road 149 for 4 miles (7 km). Turn right onto Brush Creek Road, and follow it for 5 miles (8 km). Turn right at the fork, following the signs to Island Park for 4 miles (7 km). Turn right onto the Island Park Road and follow it for 12 miles (19 km) to reach Rainbow Park Campground. Note the dirt road is impassable when wet.
The road to Rainbow Park is rugged and requires a high-clearance vehicle. It is impassable when wet, and there is no winter maintenance.
Nearby places
Jensen (approximately 28 miles, 45 km)
Nearby supplies
No detailed information about the nearest supplies, but visitors must bring all water and essentials as there are no potable water sources or supply stations nearby.

Camper Reviews

0.0
3 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Rainbow Park Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's remote, serene atmosphere and its scenic location by the Green River. While the small number of sites ensures a less crowded experience, the lack of amenities like potable water and cell reception is notable.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive feedback emphasizes the quiet and picturesque environment. 'Awesome! Only a couple spots to camp so it was small and not crowded,' noted one user. Another highlighted the 'great view' and...
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Based on 3 reviews

Common Concerns

Common criticisms revolve around the absence of potable water and the rugged access road, which is described as 'impassable when wet.'
Based on 3 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to bring all necessary water and supplies due to the lack of potable water and nearby facilities. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for navigating the road.
Based on 3 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are favored for milder weather, while summer brings extreme heat. Winter access is challenging due to the unmaintained road.
Based on 3 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Fun water to play in!' remarked one camper about the Green River. Another described it as a 'remote campsite good for rough camping next to Green River.'
Based on 3 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The campground has only four tent sites, which contribute to its uncrowded atmosphere.
Based on 3 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific accessibility complaints were mentioned, though some users noted the rugged access road might pose challenges.
Based on 3 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. The prohibition of pets on hiking trails and in the backcountry may limit some activities for pet owners.
Based on 3 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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