Shady Dell Campground
4.5751 reviewsUT-150, Kamas, UT, 84036
Shady Dell Campground
$15.00 - $57.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$29.00
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 are $29.00 per night, accommodating up to 8 people and 1 vehicle. Double campsites are $57.00 per night, accommodating up to 16 people and 2 vehicles. Day use fees are $15.00. Extra vehicles are charged $10.00 per night, payable on-site via cash or check.
About this campground
Discover your perfect mountain escape at Shady Dell Campground, where the gentle murmur of the Lower Provo River creates nature's soundtrack beneath towering pines, firs, and dancing aspens. This hidden gem in the Uinta Mountains offers 19 intimate single campsites and one spacious double site, each providing your gateway to adventure. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, exploring scenic hiking trails, or conquering off-road paths, Shady Dell serves as your basecamp for unforgettable mountain memories.
Shady Dell Campground caters to various camping preferences with designated sites for tent and RV camping. There is no mention of primitive or luxury camping options.
Historical SignificanceJourney along the legendary Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, your passage into the pristine High Uintas Wilderness. This remarkable corridor has served as a sanctuary for diverse native wildlife and delicate alpine ecosystems for millennia, preserving a landscape that remains largely unchanged since ancient times. The byway itself tells the story of human connection to these sacred mountains, offering modern adventurers the same awe-inspiring vistas that have captivated travelers for generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the refreshing mountain climate where summer days bring perfect hiking weather while evenings invite cozy campfire gatherings under star-filled skies. The Uinta Mountains keep their cool personality year-round, ensuring crisp, comfortable nights even in July and August. When winter arrives, this alpine wonderland transforms into a snow-draped paradise, though heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures make it a seasonal destination best enjoyed from late spring through early fall.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 8,200 feet above sea level, Shady Dell offers that authentic high-country experience where the air feels crisp and clean in your lungs. This elevated paradise means cooler temperatures that provide sweet relief from summer heat, though the thinner atmosphere reminds you to take it easy as you adjust. Pack those extra layers – mountain weather at this altitude can surprise you with its quick changes and refreshing evening temperatures.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where towering evergreens create a natural cathedral overhead and quaking aspens paint the landscape gold each autumn. The Provo River winds through this forest sanctuary like a silver ribbon, its banks adorned with lush willow thickets that whisper in the mountain breeze. When fall arrives, the campground erupts in a spectacular display of amber, gold, and crimson that transforms every view into a masterpiece worthy of your camera.
Geological RegionWelcome to the majestic Uinta Mountains of northeastern Utah, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a high alpine playground unlike anywhere else in the region. This remarkable landscape showcases nature's artistry through dramatic peaks, verdant forests of pine, fir, and aspen, and the life-giving waters of the Provo River lined with emerald willow thickets. Here in this elevated wilderness, every vista tells the story of millions of years of natural history carved into the very bones of the earth.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the sources.
Sites SizeThe campground includes 19 single sites and 1 double site. The single sites can accommodate up to 8 people and 1 vehicle, while the double site can hold up to 16 people and 2 vehicles. Several reviews mention that the sites are spacious, with one user stating, 'Spaces are pretty big and private.'
Sites PrivacySites are said to be well-separated by lush aspens and evergreens, providing privacy. As one user notes, 'Most camp spots are separated enough so that you don't feel people are looking at you.'
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 12 is praised for its seclusion and proximity to the river. Site 9 has limited shade and might be less desirable during hot weather.
Best CampsitesCampsites near the river are highly valued for privacy and proximity to water. Users frequently mention sites 12 and 15 as being particularly enjoyable.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 14 days within a 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per single site and up to 16 guests per double site.
Groups
There is no specific group camping facility mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground contains 19 single sites and 1 double site, with designated spaces for tents and trailers. Vault restroom facilities and picnic tables are provided.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23, 2025, to October 18, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is offered from September 2 to October 18, 2025. Availability depends on occupancy and cannot be reserved in advance.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made prior to arrival incur a $10.00 service fee. Late cancellations, within 24 hours of arrival, forfeit the first night's fee and incur a $10.00 service fee. No-shows incur a $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Shady Dell Campground offers a variety of recreational activities. The Lower Provo River adjacent to the campground provides trout fishing opportunities, and the nearby Soapstone Basin offers off-road vehicle trails for riders of all skill levels. Numerous hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails are also available. "The campground is situated among a dense forest of pine, fir, and aspen trees, which provide ample shade and beautiful fall color," making it ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails crisscross the area around the campground, offering access to scenic viewpoints, Mirror Lake, and even the High Uintas Wilderness. The trails vary in difficulty, making them suitable for a range of skill levels.Fishing
The Lower Provo River, accessible from the campground, is noted for trout fishing. A user review says, 'You will find rivers to fish' near the campground.Biking
There are numerous biking trails in the vicinity of the campground, suitable for mountain biking enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is commonly appreciated by campers. One user noted a deer visiting their campsite, which highlights the rich wildlife presence in the area.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only within designated fire rings. Fireworks and discharging firearms are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is situated in bear country, requiring strict food and trash storage policies. Seasonal water shortages and heavy snow in winter months can be challenging.
Active alertsNo active alerts at this time.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Closest emergency services are in Kamas, UT, which includes medical facilities and police services. Kamas Ranger District office is nearby for park-related assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 to September 1, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are provided, but reviews note that bins have sometimes been overflowing and not collected for days.
Proximity to water featuresThe Lower Provo River flows alongside the campground, offering easy access for fishing and exploration.
Common complaintsReviews have mentioned water shortages and occasional trash issues. Some campers noted site-specific issues such as broken equipment or limited shade.
HostCamp hosts are frequently mentioned as attentive and friendly, ensuring clean facilities and assisting campers when needed.
Campground Map
UT-150, Kamas, UT, 84036
Driving directionsIn Kamas, UT, at the intersection of State Rt. 32 (Main St.) and State Rt. 150 (Center St.), take Rt. 150 (Mirror Lake Scenic Byway) east 17 miles to the campground sign. Turn right at the sign into the campground.
The campground is accessed via the paved Mirror Lake Scenic Byway (State Route 150). Roads are generally well-maintained, but the area can experience seasonal closures or challenging driving conditions due to snow, particularly outside peak summer months.Nearby places
Kamas (17 miles, approximately 30 minutes driving).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are available in Kamas, UT, approximately 17 miles from the campground. Fuel stations are also located in Kamas.
Camper Reviews
4.6
51 reviews
Shady Dell Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Shady Dell Campground has received largely positive reviews, with users frequently praising its natural beauty, cleanliness, and the helpfulness of camp hosts. However, some complaints about occasional maintenance issues and water availability have also been noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 51 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the campground's scenic setting, proximity to the river, well-maintained vault toilets, and spacious, private sites. The camp hosts are highly praised for their helpfulness and...
Based on 51 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of potable water during certain periods, occasional overflowing trash bins, and maintenance issues such as broken locks on restroom doors. Some users also mentioned...
Based on 51 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water, especially during off-peak seasons. Site 8 offers great shade, while site 9 does not. Campers recommend exploring the Fairy Forest and nearby trails. Be prepared for cold nights.
Based on 51 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is particularly appreciated in the fall for its vibrant colors. During peak summer months, lack of water and high temperatures in less shaded sites are common complaints.
Based on 51 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'This is a beautiful campground with the upper Provo River nearby that provides the sound of running water day and night.' - Tim Watkins
2. 'Vault bathrooms were very clean and sanitary; she...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 8: Lacks much shade but close to Fairy Forest.
Site 9: Offers less shade than other sites.
Site 12: Has unique issues like a bent bench and no fire grate.
Site 15: Easy to pull into, requiring...
Based on 51 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 51 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Campers appreciate that dogs are allowed, but they must be controlled on a leash and cleaned up after.
Based on 51 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025