Magpie Campground (Ut)
4.3636 reviewsFR 20079, Huntsville, UT 84317
Magpie Campground (Ut)
$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
Fees include $31 for single sites, $62 for double sites, $15 for day use, $10 per extra vehicle, $9 for firewood, and $8 for walk-in visitors.
About this campground
Tucked away in a verdant forest along the meandering South Fork Ogden River, Magpie Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with just 8 single sites and 2 double sites. Here, the gentle rush of river water sets the soundtrack for days spent casting fishing lines, floating downstream on tubes, or exploring winding hiking trails that disappear into the surrounding wilderness.
Magpie Campground offers sites primarily for tent and RV camping with minimal facilities, emphasizing a traditional outdoor experience.
Historical SignificanceWhile Magpie Campground may not boast ancient ruins or historic landmarks, its untouched character speaks to the timeless appeal of Utah's wild spaces, offering visitors a chance to create their own stories along the riverbank.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this riverside retreat into a comfortable haven where temperatures hover between pleasant 71°F afternoons and cool 59°F evenings perfect for campfire gatherings. The moderate humidity and minimal rainfall create ideal conditions for outdoor adventures from late spring through early fall. As winter approaches, the campground closes its gates, letting the forest rest under blankets of snow until the next season's awakening.
ElevationPerched at 5,200 feet above sea level, this mountain campground provides a refreshing refuge from summer heat. The elevation creates a natural air conditioning effect, delivering crisp mornings and comfortably cool evenings that make sleeping under the stars a dream.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient cottonwoods stretch their gnarled branches overhead, creating a living canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The South Fork Ogden River winds gracefully past each campsite, its crystal-clear waters nurturing a ribbon of lush vegetation that transforms the campground into an emerald oasis. This rich river-bottom ecosystem attracts diverse wildlife and creates a verdant sanctuary that feels worlds away from civilization.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of northern Utah's Wasatch foothills at 5,200 feet, Magpie Campground occupies a prime spot where mountain meets river. The South Fork Ogden River has carved this peaceful valley over millennia, creating fertile grounds where towering cottonwoods and diverse river-bottom flora thrive in the mineral-rich soil, forming a natural amphitheater of green that embraces each campsite.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative materials or user reviews. The terrain and heavily wooded environment may present challenges for campers with mobility issues.
Sites SizeThe campground features 8 single sites and 2 double sites. User feedback highlights that some sites are small, with limited room for tents.
Sites PrivacySites are described as close together by some reviewers, leading to limited privacy. However, the wooded environment provides some natural screening.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor shade and easy river access, sites 5 and 8 are recommended. For hammock setups, site 3 is ideal but offers no river access.
Best CampsitesSite 8 is highly rated for family use, offering space for multiple tents and easy access to the creek.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is allowed after 7 AM.
Check-out
Check-out must be completed by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
- 2-night minimum stay on weekends
- 3-night minimum stay on holiday weekends.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people per single site.
Groups
The campground features two double sites accommodating up to 16 people each. Specific details about vehicle limits are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 8 single sites and 2 double sites, arranged along the river and close to Highway 39.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16, 2025 to September 01, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov website or call center. Scan & Pay is also available.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available; sites must be claimed in person on the day of check-in.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made prior to arrival. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. No refunds for Scan & Pay payments.
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
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Magpie Campground offers a variety of recreational activities centered around its natural setting. The South Fork Ogden River provides opportunities for fishing and tubing, and there are nearby trails for hiking and mountain biking. The campground's proximity to reservoirs expands options to include boating and canoeing.
Hiking
Several hiking trails are accessible nearby, though specific trail lengths and difficulty levels are not detailed in the source materials.Fishing
Fishing is popular in the South Fork Ogden River adjacent to the campground. However, details about fish species and fishing conditions are not provided.Biking
Mountain biking is a highlighted activity, with trails starting near the campground.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned as the campground primarily operates during the warmer months.Water Sports
Water sports such as tubing are popular in the adjacent South Fork Ogden River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings only. Firewood must be purchased on-site.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsSpecific hazards include bears in the area; improper food storage may result in fines. Hornet infestations have been reported in user reviews during cooking.
Active alertsUser reports mention occasional road closures and limited access without prior notice.
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
Nearest emergency services are in Huntsville, UT, 6 miles away. Ogden, UT, approximately 20 miles away, offers hospitals and additional emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16, 2025 - September 01, 2025
Trash and recyclingThere are no specific mentions of trash or recycling facilities. Campers are advised to "pack it in, pack it out."
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to the South Fork Ogden River, with direct access for fishing and tubing.
Common complaintsUsers commonly mention proximity to the road causing traffic noise, small and uneven campsites, and hornet infestations during cooking.
HostMultiple reviews praise the camp host, David, for his friendliness and maintenance of the campground. Specific comments highlight his enforcement of rules and cleanliness.
Campground Map
FR 20079, 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.
Accessible via Highway 39, paved roads throughout the area. No specific mentions of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Nearby places
Ogden, UT: approximately 20 miles
Huntsville, UT: 6 miles
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries and fuel, are available in Huntsville, UT, 6 miles away. Larger options are in Ogden, UT, approximately 20 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
36 reviews
Magpie Campground (Ut) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Magpie Campground highlight its scenic riverside location and abundant shade but also mention issues such as close proximity of campsites, overgrown vegetation, and occasional wildlife nuisances like hornets.
Review Summaries
Based on 36 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the clean and well-maintained vault toilets, the friendly campground host, and the serenity of the riverside setting. One user noted, 'The camp was quiet and relaxing,' while another...
Based on 36 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the limited space in campsites, proximity to the road leading to noise, and a hornet problem noted by one camper. Another review mentioned a challenging interaction with a...
Based on 36 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest bringing extra tent stakes due to rocky ground in some sites. They also recommend choosing riverside sites for better access and enjoying the tranquility of no cell service.
Based on 36 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with campers enjoying the shade and river access. One review mentioned that fall offers a peaceful experience due to fewer visitors.
Based on 36 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'This was a nice campground near a river with lots of shade.' - Emily S. 2. 'Loved the campfire and picnic table area with a small trail that leads almost fully to the creek.' - Crystal S. 3. 'The...
Based on 36 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #3 was noted as unsuitable for tents but ideal for RVs due to shade. Site #8 was described as perfect for families, with ample room for multiple tents and close to the creek.
Based on 36 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews were provided, but the terrain and overgrowth may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Based on 36 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Users noted that the campground enforces leash rules, contributing to a peaceful environment without disruptions from loose pets.
Based on 36 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025