Vernon Reservoir Campground
4.2422 reviewsHighway 36 to Vernon, 9 miles south on dirt road
Vernon Reservoir Campground
$10.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Day Use pass costs $10 per vehicle for 3-day access, $20 for 7-day access, or $60 for an annual pass. Interagency "America the Beautiful" Passes and Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest Passes are honored. Fees can be paid via a self-pay fee tube, with passes displayed in vehicles.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Utah's wilderness, Vernon Reservoir Campground beckons to those who seek simplicity and authentic outdoor experiences. This unspoiled retreat strips away the unnecessary, offering instead the raw beauty of nature and direct access to the shimmering waters of Vernon Reservoir. Here, anglers cast their lines at dawn while the mist rises off the water, and outdoor enthusiasts find their perfect basecamp for adventure. The campground's rustic charm and open layout create an atmosphere where the focus remains on what matters most: the connection between you and the great outdoors.
The Vernon Reservoir Campground primarily supports primitive camping, with dispersed camping options. It is a free campground with no designated spots. RVs are allowed, and tent camping is common.
Natural Features and SceneryA verdant tapestry of towering trees frames Vernon Reservoir, creating a natural amphitheater where water meets forest. The reservoir itself serves as the campground's crown jewel, its calm waters reflecting the surrounding greenery and sky above. Mornings bring the gentle splash of kayak paddles cutting through glass-like water, while afternoons see fishing lines cast from shore and boat alike. The abundant canopy provides welcome shade and creates intimate camping spots, while clearings offer panoramic views of the water. This harmonious blend of forest and lake creates endless opportunities for both active recreation and peaceful contemplation.
Geological RegionSituated within the magnificent Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Vernon Reservoir Campground occupies a special corner of one of Utah's most diverse landscapes. This vast forest system, known for its dramatic elevation changes and varied ecosystems, provides the perfect backdrop for the campground's open meadows and water features. The surrounding terrain tells the story of ancient geological forces that carved out natural basins perfect for capturing mountain runoff, creating the lakes and reservoirs that now draw visitors from across the region. The forest's characteristic mix of coniferous and deciduous trees creates a rich, biodiverse environment that changes with the seasons.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are under construction, based on the official description.
Sites SizeThe campground does not specify the sizes of individual camping sites, and there are no designated camp spots.
Sites PrivacyThe open setting suggests limited privacy between campsites. Campers can camp where they like, and the area is generally open without dense vegetation.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo specific campsites are designated; camping is dispersed, allowing campers to choose based on preferences for proximity to water or shade.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
16 day stay limit
Groups
No group-specific camping details provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCamping is dispersed with no designated sites, allowing flexibility for campers to choose their spots based on proximity to the reservoir or shade from trees.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not required as camping is on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is on a first-come, first-serve basis; review notes indicate that spots fill up during holidays.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational opportunities center around lake fishing, with additional options for hunting and ice fishing. Some reviews also indicate off-roading and water recreation such as kayaking, row boating, and swimming.
Fishing
Fishing is a primary activity at Vernon Reservoir. The lake supports tiger trout, rainbows, and browns. User reviews highlight fishing success and enjoyment, although some noted low water levels affecting the experience.Swimming
Swimming is an option in the reservoir, as mentioned by a few reviewers. However, no formal swimming facilities or safety measures are provided.Boating
Non-motorized boating is allowed. Powerboats are prohibited. Activities like kayaking and row boating are mentioned by reviewers.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as wild turkeys has been observed by campers. A user reported hearing wolves howling at night, adding to the area's natural appeal.Winter Activities
Ice fishing is mentioned as a winter activity for visitors.Water Sports
Water-related activities include kayaking, row boating, and possibly paddleboarding. Powerboats are prohibited.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire pits are available at campsite areas.
Hazards
General hazards"Beware of crickets!" was noted in reviews. Additionally, other hazards include gravel roads that may cause flat tires; one reviewer recommended carrying a spare tire.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 15 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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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
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Spanish Fork Ranger District at 44 West 400 North, Spanish Fork, UT 84660. Phone: (801) 798-3571
Good to know
Trash and recyclingCampers are reminded to pack out their trash as no specific trash or recycling facilities were mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Vernon Reservoir, offering opportunities for fishing and water recreation.
Common complaintsMany reviewers mention the cleanliness of bathrooms being inconsistent, with some describing them as dirty while others appreciated their availability. The campground can be crowded during holiday weekends.
Campground Map
Highway 36 to Vernon, 9 miles south on dirt road
Driving directionsTake Highway 36 to Vernon, then drive 9 miles south on a dirt road to reach the campground.
The campground is accessible via a 9-mile stretch of dirt road south of Highway 36 in Vernon. While navigable, the road may pose challenges for some vehicles, especially during adverse weather.Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are not specified
users should plan ahead and bring necessary items, as the campground lacks potable water and other facilities.
Camper Reviews
4.2
22 reviews
Vernon Reservoir Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Vernon Reservoir Campground are mixed, with many visitors praising the natural setting and fishing opportunities, while others emphasize the lack of amenities and sometimes unclean restrooms. The open and peaceful environment is a highlight, but the campground can become crowded on holidays.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users enjoy the peaceful environment, wildlife sightings, fishing opportunities, and the reservoir's suitability for various recreational activities.
Based on 22 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues with restroom cleanliness, crowded conditions during holidays, low water levels in the reservoir, and occasional disturbances like military helicopter flyovers are noted.
Based on 22 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a spare tire due to rough road conditions. Visit during non-holiday weekends for less crowding. Be aware of crickets in the area. Pack out all trash to keep the site clean.
Based on 22 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The winter season offers ice fishing opportunities, but reviews suggest summer to early fall is better for camping, fishing, and other water-related activities. Holidays draw larger crowds, so...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'I love this place! I'd have given it a five, but of seven years of going to this beautiful place the restrooms were filthy.' - Calene Johnson
2. 'Great place for scouts overnighters, with plenty...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers or areas are identified due to the campground's dispersed camping format.
Based on 22 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically mention accessibility experiences.
Based on 22 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
A review notes that pets (e.g., dogs) enjoyed proximity to the reservoir, suggesting the campground is pet-friendly.
Based on 22 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025