Indian Crossing Campground

Star0
5 reviews
Browns Park Rd, Dutch John, UT 84023
Indian Crossing Campground
$0.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary by season and site type. Individual standard non-electric sites are free during First-Come, First-Served season, tent-only sites are $10,...
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Standard Site Fee$10.00
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$10.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
435-781-4400blm_ut_vn_mail@blm.gov

About this campground

Discover the untamed beauty of Indian Crossing Campground, where the legendary Green River carves its way through the dramatic landscape of Browns Park. This hidden gem operates on a first-come, first-served basis, inviting adventurers to claim their spot along the riverbank for world-class floating and fishing. Your riverside retreat comes complete with all the essentials: fresh drinking water flows during peak season, while sturdy picnic tables and fire rings await your evening gatherings under star-studded skies. Modern vault toilets ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience.
Indian Crossing Campground caters to various camping preferences, including tent camping and group camping. RV camping is possible, but no hookups are available.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the neighboring John Jarvie Ranch, where the Old West comes alive through meticulously preserved 1880s buildings and fascinating frontier artifacts. This living museum tells the story of early settlers who carved out a life in this remote valley, offering visitors a chance to walk in the footsteps of pioneers and outlaws who once called Browns Park home.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the high desert's gentle embrace, where dry air and brilliant sunshine dominate the camping season. Spring through fall brings perfectly moderate temperatures that make every outdoor activity a pleasure. Winter transforms the landscape with a delicate dusting of snow, creating a pristine wonderland for the hardy few. The region's low precipitation means more clear nights for stargazing and more sunny days for river adventures – making any week an ideal time to escape to this desert oasis.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, the campground's high desert valley location promises crisp morning air and comfortable temperatures that make every season an adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryEmbrace the raw beauty of Browns Park, where the emerald waters of the Green River wind through a spectacular high desert valley framed by the rugged Cold Springs and Diamond Mountains. This semi-arid wonderland creates a stunning contrast of colors – from the river's jade ribbon to the golden grasslands and red rock formations. Wildlife thrives in this diverse ecosystem, offering glimpses of deer, eagles, and countless other species that call this serene landscape home. Every sunrise paints the mountains in alpenglow, while evenings bring a profound stillness broken only by the river's gentle song.
Geological RegionIndian Crossing sits at the heart of Browns Park's geological wonderland, where millions of years of Earth's history unfold before your eyes. The Green River has carved its ancient path through this high desert valley, creating a dramatic corridor between the towering Cold Springs and Diamond Mountains. This semi-arid landscape showcases nature's artistry through weathered rock formations, ancient sedimentary layers, and the ever-changing canvas of desert flora adapted to thrive in this unique environment.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not specified in the provided materials.
Sites SizeCampsites include standard-sized plots, but specific dimensions are not detailed.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy levels are suggested. A user review states, "The campsites along the river are decent, but the ones in the center are hot and open," indicating varying levels of shade and privacy depending on the site's location.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites along the Green River for cooler temperatures and scenic views.
Best CampsitesSites along the Green River are favored for better views and proximity to water activities.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in times are not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out times are not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
No data provided for stay limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No data provided.
Groups
The group campsite is designed to accommodate larger parties, but specific details on the number of people or vehicles allowed are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layout20 individual campsites and one group campsite, equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, parking areas, and vault toilets.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Jan 01, 2025 - Dec 31, 2025. First-Come, First-Served season begins June 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made using the recreation.gov app for Scan & Pay or at the Iron Ranger on site.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are First-Come, First-Serve. Visitors must physically be at the campground to purchase and claim a site.
Cancellation PolicyScan and Pay system does not allow refunds, modifications, cancellations, or fee changes.

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
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Indian Crossing Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, with a particular focus on water-based recreation and fishing along the Green River. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, birding, and exploring nearby historic and natural sites such as the John Jarvie Historic Ranch.
Hiking
General hiking opportunities exist, but details about trails, difficulty levels, or lengths are not provided.
Fishing
Fishing is a highlight of this campground, with "blue ribbon fishing along the Green River" being a major draw. Fishing is limited to artificial bait only, and specific size regulations apply: "All fish between 13 and 20 inches must be released. You may keep two fish under 13 inches and one fish over 20 inches."
Boating
Boating is supported, with "several launch points for floating the Green River" available. State boating laws require life vests, and permits are needed for commercial float boating, but not for personal use.
Wildlife viewing
The nearby Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent location for observing wildlife in its natural habitat.
Cultural and Educational Programs
Visitors can schedule tours of the John Jarvie Historic Ranch, which provides historical and cultural insights into the region.
Winter Activities
No specific winter recreation activities are mentioned.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as rafting and kayaking are popular due to the Green River's flow, which fluctuates between 830 to 4500 cubic feet per second depending on the season.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Fire rings are available for campfires.
  • Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.

Hazards

General hazardsRiver conditions fluctuate daily from 830 to 4500 cubic feet per second or higher. Life jackets are required.
Active alertsNo active alerts mentioned in the data.

Weather forecast

44
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected

Humidity: 24%

Very dry conditions, stay hydrated

Wind: 14.7 mph

Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

BLM Vernal Field Office, 170 S. 500 E., Vernal, UT 84078. Phone: 435-781-4400.

Good to know

Peak season datesPeak season dates are not explicitly provided.
Trash and recyclingNo information on trash and recycling facilities is provided. Campers are advised to plan accordingly.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Green River, ideal for fishing and rafting.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention limited shade and central campsites being hot and open. However, positive reviews highlight beautiful scenery and great fishing opportunities.
HostCampground hosts are present, as noted in user reviews. Service specifics not provided.

Campground Map

Browns Park Rd, Dutch John, UT 84023
Driving directionsFrom Vernal, UT (via Clay Basin): North 55 miles on Highway 191 (just over Wyoming border), East 22 miles on gravel/paved road, including 2 miles at a 17% grade. Follow Jarvie Ranch/Browns Park signs. From Vernal, UT (via Crouse Canyon): Not recommended for RV travel. Extremely narrow road. North on Vernal Ave to 500 N, East 25 miles to Diamond Mtn and Browns Park turnoff, North 16 miles on a dirt road to Browns Park. Follow Jarvie Ranch/Browns Park signs. From Maybell, CO: East on Highway 318 - 70 miles of paved and 8 miles of gravel road. Follow Jarvie Ranch/Browns Park signs.
Access varies depending on route. The Clay Basin route includes 22 miles on gravel/paved road and a steep 17% grade. The Crouse Canyon route is extremely narrow and not recommended for RV travel. The Maybell route includes 8 miles of gravel road.
Nearby places
Vernal, Utah - approximately 55 miles
Maybell, Colorado - approximately 78 miles.
Nearby supplies
Gasoline, food, and phone services available at Browns Park Store in Colorado. Additional gas, food, and lodging available in Green River, Rock Springs (Wyoming), Maybell (Colorado), Vernal, Manila, and Dutch John (Utah). Recommended to carry extra gas and equipment such as tire chains, food, water, and a shovel.

Camper Reviews

0.0
5 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Indian Crossing Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews generally praise the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the campground, particularly the proximity to the Green River. Common highlights include great fishing opportunities and scenic views, while some reviews note a lack of shade and basic amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors appreciate the "blue ribbon fishing" and the scenic location along the Green River. One reviewer stated, "Lovely," while another emphasized the "beautiful scenery and great fishing." The...
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Based on 5 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users mention the lack of shade and greenery at certain campsites, describing them as "hot and open." Another review noted, "Just a campsite with spots for RVs, nothing fancy."
Based on 5 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors are advised to arrive early as campsites are first-come, first-served. Preparing for high temperatures and bringing adequate shade or cooling equipment is recommended.
Based on 5 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months appear to be popular for fishing and rafting, although some reviewers note the heat. Winter activities and experiences are not detailed.
Based on 5 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The campsites along the river are decent, but the ones in the center are hot and open." "The scenery is beautiful and the fishing is great." "Lovely." "Nice BLM site. Very little trees."
Based on 5 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Riverfront campsites are favored over those in the center due to better views and potentially cooler conditions.
Based on 5 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 5 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be on a leash. No further reviews or experiences related to pets are mentioned.
Based on 5 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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