Lower Meadows Campground
4.5640 reviewsUinta Wasatch Cache National Forest UT-39, Huntsville, UT 84317
Lower Meadows Campground
$15.00 - $62.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$31.00
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
Single campsites cost $31 per night, accommodating up to 8 people and 1 vehicle. Double sites cost $62 per night, accommodating up to 16 people and 2 vehicles. Day-use fee is $15, extra vehicle fee is $10 per day, and walk-in visitors are charged $8 each. Firewood costs $9, payable on-site by cash or check.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Lower Meadows Campground offers a serene mountain retreat where the melodic sounds of the South Fork Ogden River create nature's perfect soundtrack. Just 9 miles from the charming town of Huntsville, this hidden gem sits at 5,300 feet elevation, where towering cottonwoods and graceful willows form a natural canopy over generously spaced campsites. Here, privacy isn't just a promise—it's woven into the landscape itself, with lush vegetation creating intimate spaces where families can reconnect and adventurers can find their mountain sanctuary. As dawn breaks through the trees, don't be surprised to spot a majestic moose wandering through camp or catch glimpses of deer grazing in the meadows that give this special place its name.
Lower Meadows Campground accommodates a variety of camping preferences with 17 single sites and 6 double sites, all featuring picnic tables and fire rings. The campground is ideal for tent camping, with some sites supporting larger tents.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Lower Meadows into an outdoor paradise where warm, sun-drenched days invite endless adventures, while crisp mountain evenings call for campfire stories and stargazing. From May through September, the campground comes alive as wildflowers bloom, the river runs full, and perfect camping weather settles over the valley. Those refreshing mountain breezes that sweep through camp remind you why summer in the Wasatch is something truly special—warm enough for hiking and playing in the river by day, yet cool enough for cozy sleeping bags and hot cocoa by night.
ElevationPerched at 5,300 feet where the mountain air is crisp and clean, Lower Meadows offers that perfect sweet spot of elevation—high enough to escape the valley heat, yet comfortable enough for easy breathing and restful sleep. From this vantage point, the surrounding peaks frame spectacular views while the elevation ensures those coveted cool mountain mornings and refreshing afternoon breezes that make summer camping truly memorable.
Natural Features and SceneryThe South Fork Ogden River serves as Lower Meadows' liquid lifeline, its gentle waters creating a soothing ambiance that flows through every camping experience. Majestic cottonwoods stretch their branches overhead while delicate willows dance along the riverbank, creating a living gallery of greens and golds. Between the campsites, tall native grasses and abundant vegetation form natural privacy screens, making each spot feel like your own secret hideaway. This thriving ecosystem attracts some of the region's most impressive wildlife—keep your camera ready for those magical moments when a moose emerges from the willows or deer pause to drink from the river at twilight.
Geological RegionLower Meadows Campground claims its place in the stunning Ogden Valley, a geological masterpiece carved by ancient forces and polished by time within the greater Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. The South Fork Ogden River has spent millennia sculpting this valley floor, creating the perfect habitat where cottonwoods sink their roots deep and willows thrive in the rich riverside soil. This unique mountain ecosystem, where forest meets meadow and river meets sky, provides an ideal sanctuary for the area's diverse wildlife. Regular visits from moose and deer remind campers that this landscape remains wonderfully wild, a place where nature's rhythms still guide each day from sunrise to sunset.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe campground offers a mix of standard and large campsites. Some sites are spacious enough to accommodate large tents, such as a 20x18x7 tent as noted by a reviewer.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are described as being 'spacious with individual sites quite far apart,' providing a sense of privacy. Vegetation between sites enhances privacy further, as highlighted by one reviewer who stated, 'Good vegetation around it makes it so you don't notice the neighbors.'
Total Campsites23 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the river for private access and scenic views. Site 13 has good vegetation for privacy; sites 4 and 20 are quiet and scenic.
Best CampsitesPopular sites include 4, 13, 20, and 23 due to privacy and proximity to the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in by 12 PM on the day following the reservation start date.
Check-out
Check-out by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
- 2-night minimum on weekends
- 3-night minimum on holiday weekends.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- 8people per single site
- 16 people per double site.
Groups
Group camping details are not explicitly provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 17 single sites and 6 double sites. Sites are spacious and separated by vegetation for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpens May 16, closes September 1 (reservable dates vary annually).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov website or app; phone line available at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available but not guaranteed. Availability can only be confirmed by arriving on-site.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation allowed in advance for reservable sites. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee. No refunds for Scan & Pay payments. No-shows are charged a $20 fee and forfeit the first night’s fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lower Meadows Campground offers a range of recreational activities that highlight its natural setting. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, swimming, and tubing down the South Fork Ogden River. Nearby attractions provide additional opportunities, such as canoeing and fishing at Causey Reservoir and scenic hiking trails.
Hiking
The campground offers access to nearby hiking trails. The trails are described as abundant and scenic, with some leading to Causey Reservoir. Difficulty levels and lengths are not specified.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with opportunities in the South Fork Ogden River and nearby reservoirs. One reviewer noted, 'The river is nice to float when it's high enough,' and another mentioned catching 'a few fish' during their visit.Swimming
Swimming is permitted in the South Fork Ogden River and nearby reservoirs. Tubing is also a favored activity, but life jackets are required for safety.Boating
Boating activities are available at the nearby Pineview and Causey Reservoirs, offering opportunities for canoeing, paddleboarding, and other water activities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as moose and deer are frequently seen wandering through the campground. One user noted, 'Several times, there's been a bull moose hanging out by the river.'Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned in the source materials.Water Sports
Water sports like canoeing and paddleboarding are available at nearby reservoirs.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted within designated fire rings. Fireworks prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is in bear country; food and trash must be stored securely. Wildlife interactions are possible.
Active alertsNo active alerts noted.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.2 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
Ogden Regional Medical Center (approximately 20 miles away in Ogden); Ogden Ranger District available for non-medical emergencies.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 1
Trash and recyclingAs a 'pack it in, pack it out' facility, campers are expected to bring their own trash bags and properly dispose of all waste. A large community trash bin is also available, according to a user review.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the South Fork Ogden River; close to Causey Reservoir (4 miles) and Pineview Reservoir.
Common complaintsTraffic noise due to proximity to Highway 39. Occasional rowdy behavior from neighboring campers. Some reports of reservation errors and host issues.
HostCamp hosts receive mixed reviews; some are highly praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, while others have been criticized for poor management and aggressive behavior.
Campground Map
Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest UT-39, Huntsville, UT 84317
Driving directionsFrom Ogden, Utah travel east on 12th Street through Ogden Canyon. Continue on Highway 39 toward Monte Cristo. The campgrounds are Magpie, Botts, South Fork, Perception Park Family, Upper and Lower Meadows, and Willows in order from west to east. South Fork Campground complex is located approximately 5 to 7 miles east of Huntsville, Utah, on Highway 39.
The campground is located along Highway 39, which is a major road used frequently. The road is paved and accessible year-round. Some reviews mentioned traffic noise as an issue.Nearby places
Huntsville (9 miles, approximately 12 minutes)
Ogden (approximately 20 miles, around 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be acquired in Huntsville, which is approximately 9 miles away. For larger needs, Ogden offers more options, about 20 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
40 reviews
Lower Meadows Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground generally receives positive reviews, with many users praising its spacious sites, proximity to the river, and clean facilities. However, some complaints about road noise and occasional rowdy campers are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 40 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive highlights include clean and well-maintained bathroom facilities, ample privacy between campsites, and opportunities for activities such as fishing, tubing, and wildlife viewing. Reviewers...
Based on 40 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include road noise from Highway 39, occasional rowdy campers, and limited information about the campground, such as maps and brochures.
Based on 40 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users include bringing your own drinking water, choosing a site near the river for a more private experience, and reserving sites in advance for weekends due to the campground's popularity.
Based on 40 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Seasonal reviews reflect that summer is the busiest season, with weekends and holidays being particularly crowded. Weekday visits are recommended for a quieter experience.
Based on 40 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'This is a great campground just up Ogden canyon, we've camped here a couple of times over the years.' -- Matt Larson
2. 'The river is nice to float when it's high enough, and there are two...
Based on 40 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback includes praise for site 13 for its privacy and site 20 for its beauty and quietness. Some reviewers highlighted issues with site access due to blocked loops or unoccupied...
Based on 40 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews were mentioned in the source materials.
Based on 40 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, with regulations requiring leashes not to exceed six feet and that owners clean up after their pets. One reviewer noted, 'Dogs are welcome, the river is very close, and the...
Based on 40 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025