Monte Cristo

Star4.23
74 reviews
45 South 100 West, Woodruff, UT 84086
Monte Cristo
$31.00 - $292.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary by site type: Single sites cost $31 per night and accommodate up to 8 people. Group sites cost $292 per night and accommodate up to 100...
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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$292.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$323.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
385-273-1100comments@AmericanLL.com

About this campground

Escape to Monte Cristo Campground, a mountain sanctuary nestled 30 miles east of Huntsville, Utah, where the air is crisp and the stars seem close enough to touch. This high-altitude haven welcomes both solo adventurers and large groups with thoughtfully designed facilities, including vault toilets, fresh drinking water, inviting picnic tables, and campfire rings perfect for evening gatherings. Here, modern conveniences meet wilderness charm in a setting that promises both comfort and authentic outdoor experiences.
Monte Cristo offers single-family campsites, group camping areas, and basic facilities designed for tent campers and small RVs. Larger RVs may face challenges due to the narrow and winding roads in some loops.
Historical SignificanceMonte Cristo stands as a crown jewel along the renowned Ogden River Scenic Byway, a route that tells the story of Utah's remarkable geological evolution and ecological diversity. This pristine wilderness has long captivated visitors with its untouched beauty, serving as a gateway to understanding the region's natural heritage. The area's name evokes tales of mountain exploration and the enduring allure of high-country adventure that has drawn nature enthusiasts for generations.
Weather and SeasonsAt Monte Cristo, summer unfolds like a gentle mountain symphony—warm, sun-drenched days give way to refreshingly cool evenings that call for cozy campfire conversations and stargazing. The high elevation creates its own microclimate, where afternoon rain showers occasionally sweep through, leaving behind the sweet scent of pine and damp earth. While valleys below swelter, this mountain retreat remains a cool refuge, offering temperatures often 15-20 degrees lower than nearby Pineview Reservoir.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,000 feet above sea level, Monte Cristo Campground offers a true alpine experience. This lofty elevation provides a natural air conditioning system during summer months, though newcomers to high altitude should take time to acclimate. The thin mountain air adds an element of adventure to every hike and creates an environment where even simple activities feel more rewarding against the backdrop of expansive mountain vistas.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering spruce sentinels stand guard alongside shimmering aspen groves that dance in the mountain breeze. Summer transforms the landscape into a botanical wonderland, with meadows erupting in kaleidoscopic displays of wildflowers—Indian paintbrush, lupine, and columbine painting the hillsides. When autumn arrives, the aspens steal the show, turning the mountainsides into rivers of gold. The melodic babble of Sugar Pine Creek provides a natural soundtrack, while the surrounding peaks frame views that inspire both photographers and poets alike.
Geological RegionThis remarkable 9,000-foot mountain ecosystem represents millions of years of geological artistry, where ancient forces sculpted dramatic peaks and carved gentle meadows. The landscape tells a story written in stone and forest, where dense stands of aspen and spruce create a living tapestry across the mountainsides. Wildflower meadows punctuate the forest canopy, offering glimpses of the sky and creating natural amphitheaters where nature's seasonal performances unfold. This high-altitude wonderland showcases the powerful intersection of elevation, climate, and time that defines Utah's most treasured mountain environments.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityAccessibility for individuals with disabilities could be improved. User reviews suggest adding handicap-accessible paths and toilets in every campground loop.
Sites SizeStandard and group sites are available. Group sites accommodate up to 100 people, while standard sites are designed for up to 8 people and 1 vehicle.
Sites PrivacyThe layout provides good privacy in most areas, especially in loops D and E. However, some sites experience foot traffic due to proximity to restrooms.
Total Campsites44 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLoops A, B, and C are best suited for tents or small trailers. Loops D and E are more accessible for mid-size RVs. Group sites are ideal for larger gatherings.
Best CampsitesSite 21 is noted for its spaciousness and scenic views. Group sites are praised for their amenities and layout.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in begins at 12 PM the day of arrival.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12 PM the day after the scheduled departure.
Stay Limit
Camping is allowed for a maximum duration of 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Standard sites accommodate up to 8 people. Group sites can host up to 100 people.
Groups
The two group sites can accommodate up to 100 people and include picnic tables, grills, and cement pads.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops (A, B, C, D, E), each varying in accessibility and site size. Group sites are laid out separately with more amenities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from late June to early September.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, but availability cannot be guaranteed and depends on occupancy patterns.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled or changed through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. A $10 service fee applies to changes or cancellations. Late cancellations (day before or day of reservation) incur an additional penalty of forfeiting the first night's fee.

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
Flush toilets
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Monte Cristo offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, scenic drives, and equestrian trails. Its proximity to the Ogden River Scenic Byway adds to its appeal. Campers mentioned enjoying wildflower meadows, autumn foliage, and peaceful surroundings.
Hiking
The campground area features multiple hiking trails, suitable for different skill levels. Trails pass through scenic aspen and spruce forests and meadows filled with wildflowers.
Biking
Road biking along the scenic Highway 39 is popular due to the winding, picturesque routes.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with deer and other animals frequently spotted within and around the campground.
Winter Activities
The high elevation and snowfall make the area potentially suitable for winter activities like snowshoeing, though this is not explicitly mentioned.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Fireworks and explosives are strictly prohibited.
  • Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Hazards

General hazardsThe campground is in bear country, requiring secure storage of food and trash. Failure to comply may result in fines. Narrow roads and overhanging trees may pose risks to large trailers.
Active alertsWater spigots are broken, and flush toilets are unavailable; porta potties have been provided but are often overfilled. Bring adequate water supplies.

Weather forecast

23
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 40%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 10.8 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Ogden Regional Medical Center (approximately 1 hour drive), Ogden Police Department, and the Monte Cristo Guard Station located nearby.

Good to know

Peak season datesJuly 4th - September 1st.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided but is part of a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy. Campers are urged to store food and dispose of trash securely to avoid wildlife attraction.
Proximity to water featuresSugar Pine Creek is nearby, offering natural beauty. However, water spigots within the campground are currently non-functional.
Common complaintsSeveral reviews note the lack of functioning water spigots, overfilled porta potties, and challenges with campsite accessibility for larger trailers. Complaints about abrasive behavior from previous campground hosts also exist.
HostMixed reviews about the campground host's behavior are noted in user reviews. Some hosts have been praised for their friendliness, while others were criticized for abrasive interactions.

Campground Map

45 South 100 West, Woodruff, UT 84086
Driving directionsFrom Ogden, Utah, take 12th Street up Ogden Canyon and continue on Highway 39 east of Huntsville for 30 miles. Campground is located across the highway from the Monte Cristo Guard Station.
The campground is accessible via Highway 39, which is paved and traverses through mountainous terrain. Some sharp turns and elevation changes might make it challenging for larger RVs, especially in certain loops where trees may overhang or roads are narrow.
Nearby places
Huntsville (30 miles, approximately 40 minutes by car), Ogden (44 miles, approximately 1 hour by car)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and fuel are available in Huntsville, 30 miles west of the campground. Additional supplies can be found in Ogden, 44 miles away.

Camper Reviews

4.2
74 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Monte Cristo is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Campers appreciate the beautiful setting, shaded sites, and peaceful atmosphere. However, water issues, maintenance concerns, and abrasive behavior by some camp hosts have been noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 74 reviews

What Campers Love

"The scenery is stunning with aspen and spruce trees." "Wildflowers in the meadows were spectacular." "The campground is well-maintained and quiet." "Group sites are spacious and well-equipped."...
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Based on 74 reviews

Common Concerns

"No water or flush toilets in 2023." "Porta-potties filled up quickly and were not serviced." "Some sites are inaccurately described as suitable for large RVs." "The camp host was reportedly abrasive...
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Based on 74 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Check the water situation before arrival as it has been an issue recently. Avoid large RVs in tight loops. Some users recommend scouting campsites beforehand due to sloping terrain and inaccuracies...
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Based on 74 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Campground operations are seasonal, opening late June and closing early September. Summer is ideal for wildflower viewing, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Some loops may be better for tents...
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Based on 74 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The wildflowers in the meadows were spectacular." "No drunk rednecks, everyone was quiet after 10, no screaming kids." "The lack of water was made clear in our reservation confirmation and was not a...
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Based on 74 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 33: Described as too small for a 28-foot trailer. Site 30: Tight and not suitable for a 26-foot camper. Sites in loops D and E: Suitable for medium-sized RVs but tight turns make them...
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Based on 74 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility improvements are needed, particularly in adding handicap-friendly paths and toilets.
Based on 74 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome but must be leashed, and owners are expected to clean up after their animals.
Based on 74 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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