Magpie Campground
4.1913 reviewsSouth Fork Campground complex, Highway 39, Huntsville, UT
Magpie Campground
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
Campsite fee is $24 per night as noted by a user review. Additional details about fee structures or discounts are not provided.
About this campground
Nestled beneath a canopy of towering cottonwoods, Magpie Campground offers a serene riverside retreat where the gentle murmur of the South Fork Ogden River provides nature's soundtrack. This heavily wooded sanctuary invites campers to unwind among the lush river-bottom vegetation that creates natural privacy between sites. Your friendly on-site host ensures you'll never run short of firewood for those memorable evening campfires under the stars.
Magpie Campground caters to both tent camping and small trailer camping. It does not offer luxury accommodations such as cabins or glamping options.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation at Magpie, where winter's crystalline cold gives way to summer's warm embrace. While winter months bring a peaceful, frost-kissed landscape perfect for hardy adventurers, the campground truly comes alive during the balmy summer season. From late spring through early fall, ideal temperatures create perfect conditions for hiking, fishing, and lazy afternoons by the river.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a riparian wonderland where massive cottonwoods stretch their branches overhead, creating a natural cathedral of dappled sunlight and rustling leaves. The South Fork Ogden River meanders alongside the campground, its clear waters reflecting the surrounding greenery and offering countless spots for quiet contemplation or exciting wildlife viewing. The diverse river-bottom ecosystem supports a rich tapestry of native plants that paint the landscape in ever-changing seasonal colors.
Geological RegionMagpie Campground sits in a spectacular river valley where ancient cottonwoods and thriving riparian vegetation tell the story of centuries of natural water flow. The South Fork Ogden River has carved this peaceful hollow, creating the perfect microclimate for the diverse plant life that shelters campers today. Just beyond lies the stunning Causey Reservoir, a mountain jewel that adds another layer of recreational possibilities to this already remarkable landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility details are not specified in the data provided.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some reviews noting limited space, only accommodating one tent in certain sites.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at campsites is limited, as multiple reviews mention sites being close together.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites adjacent to the river may offer better views and ambiance. Users note the close proximity of sites to each other.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
Details on group site availability are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are reportedly close together. No additional layout information provided.
Open and Closed SeasonSeasonally open. Specific dates are not provided.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly mentioned, though reviews suggest the importance of verifying with rangers upon arrival.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are available on Recreation.gov but not explicitly listed in the source.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Activities you can enjoy
Magpie Campground offers recreational opportunities that take advantage of its scenic location by the South Fork Ogden River. Key activities include fishing, hiking, swimming, and tubing. Causey Reservoir, located five miles away, provides additional opportunities for water-based activities. Wildlife viewing is also a highlight, with butterflies and birds frequently spotted around the campground.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available in the vicinity, though specific trail details are not mentioned.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the South Fork Ogden River, which runs adjacent to the campground. No details on the types of fish available are provided.Swimming
Swimming and tubing are popular in the South Fork Ogden River. Tubers are required to wear life jackets.Biking
Mountain biking is mentioned as an activity, though no specific details on trails or routes are provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as butterflies and birds can be observed around the campground, enhancing the natural experience.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned.Water Sports
Tubing is a primary water sport activity highlighted at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention hornet problems and brush overgrowth impacting accessibility.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
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 Ranger District (6620 East 100 South, Huntsville, UT, Phone: 385-405-7100) provides emergency contact information. The nearest hospital or police station details are not provided.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the provided data.
Proximity to water featuresThe South Fork Ogden River flows adjacent to the campground. Causey Reservoir is five miles east.
Common complaintsProximity of campsites, unprofessional host conduct, and hornet issues are recurring complaints.
HostMixed reviews about the campground host. Some users found the host helpful, while others described unprofessionalism.
Campground Map
South Fork Campground complex, Highway 39, Huntsville, UT
Driving directionsSouth Fork Campground complex is located approximately 5 to 7 miles east of Huntsville, Utah, on Highway 39. From Ogden travel east on 12th Street through Ogden Canyon. Continue on Highway 39 toward Monte Cristo. The campgrounds in this complex are Magpie, Botts, South Fork, Perception Park Family, Upper and Lower Meadows, and Willows in order from west to east.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Seasonal closures may apply. Directions suggest straightforward access from major highways.Nearby places
Huntsville, UT (5-7 miles)
Ogden, UT (approximately 12 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies are likely available in Huntsville (5-7 miles away)
additional options in Ogden (~12 miles). Specific grocery or fuel locations are not mentioned.
Camper Reviews
4.2
13 reviews
Magpie Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews present mixed opinions of Magpie Campground. While the setting near the river and shade from trees are appreciated, campers often note issues such as the proximity of campsites to each other and limited space. Positive aspects include the natural beauty, clean facilities, and friendly interactions with some hosts, while negative experiences largely revolve around encounters with staff and maintenance concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the shade and natural surroundings, describing the location as 'beautiful' and 'near the river.' Specific mentions include the clean bathrooms and wildlife sightings such as...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include campsites being too close to one another, limited space for tents within some sites, and hornet problems during cooking. Negative experiences with staff, such as...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Future campers are advised to verify reservations and site availability beforehand to avoid conflicts. Bringing insect repellent for hornets and careful planning for space limitations are recommended.
Based on 13 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest quieter experiences during weekdays while weekends can be busier. No specific seasonal variations in user experience are mentioned beyond general observations that wildlife activity...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'This was a nice campground near a river with lots of shade.' - Emily Samuels
- 'Great for tent camping or a small trailer. It's right next to the river.' - Elise Frawley
- 'The management let the...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific complaints about certain sites include limited space (e.g., only room for one tent) and proximity to neighbors. No particular site numbers are highlighted as notably better or worse.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility-specific feedback is not present in the reviews.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address experiences related to pets.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025