Willows Campground (Ut)
4.5444 reviewsUinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, UT-39, Huntsville, UT, 84317
Willows Campground (Ut)
$8.00 - $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
Single sites cost $31.00 per night with a maximum capacity of 8 people and 1 vehicle. Double sites cost $62.00 per night with a maximum capacity of 16 people and 2 vehicles. Day use is $15.00 per day. Extra vehicles incur $10.00 per vehicle per day (paid on-site, cash/check). Firewood is available for $9.00 (cash/check only).
About this campground
Nestled in a tranquil grove where cottonwoods and willows dance in the mountain breeze, Willows Campground offers an intimate escape with just 14 single sites and 3 double sites along the banks of the South Fork Ogden River. This hidden gem invites you to cast a line into crystal-clear waters, explore winding forest trails, or simply float downstream on a lazy summer afternoon. Just two miles from the sparkling expanse of Causey Reservoir, this riverside retreat serves as your perfect basecamp for both relaxation and adventure.
Willows Campground offers tent and RV camping options, including single and double campsites. RV hookups are not available.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this peaceful spot remains quietly tucked away like the campground itself, the timeless rhythm of the river and the ancient cottonwoods tell their own stories to those who listen.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives gently at Willows, bringing bluebird skies and comfortable mountain weather that's perfect for outdoor pursuits. With daytime highs reaching a pleasant 57°F and nighttime temperatures dipping to a crisp 42°F, you'll find yourself reaching for that morning coffee and evening campfire with equal enthusiasm. The dry, stable conditions and minimal rainfall create ideal circumstances for stargazing, hiking, and all your favorite warm-weather activities.
ElevationPerched at 5,300 feet where the mountain air stays refreshingly cool even in summer's peak, Willows Campground offers a natural respite from valley heat. This perfect elevation grants sweeping views of surrounding peaks while maintaining comfortable conditions for camping, with crisp mornings giving way to warm afternoons and cool, star-filled evenings.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of cottonwoods and willows creates a natural sanctuary where each campsite feels like its own private woodland retreat. The South Fork Ogden River murmurs past, its gentle current providing both a soothing soundtrack and endless entertainment for anglers and tubers alike. Dense undergrowth weaves natural privacy screens between sites, while the shimmering waters of Causey Reservoir beckon from just two miles east, promising additional adventures for boaters and swimmers.
Geological RegionTucked within the majestic embrace of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Willows Campground showcases the region's signature riparian ecosystem where mountain meets river. At 5,300 feet, massive cottonwoods and graceful willows thrive along the South Fork of the Ogden River, creating a lush oasis that stands in beautiful contrast to the rugged peaks above. This unique convergence of forest, river, and mountain terrain exemplifies the diverse landscapes that make Utah's high country so captivating.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySpecific accessibility features for campers with disabilities are not documented.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating a range of setups from small tents to larger groups with vehicles. Some double sites provide ample space for groups.
Sites PrivacyA heavy middlestory provides privacy between camping sites. However, some users felt the campsites were closely packed, limiting privacy in certain areas.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to the river for better views (e.g., 10, 11). Campsite 6 accommodates larger groups comfortably.
Best CampsitesCampsite 6 is highly recommended for its shade, proximity to bathrooms and dumpsters, and suitability for large groups. Campsites 10 and 11 are cited for good river access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
The campground requires a 2-night minimum stay on weekends and 3-night minimum stay during holiday weekends.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- 8people per single site
- 16 people per double site.
Groups
- Group camping is not explicitly documented
- only double and single campsites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle loop campground designed among willow trees and cottonwoods with privacy provided by vegetation. Includes gravel spurs and cement table pads.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16 to September 01 (peak season).
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available through Recreation.gov and the mobile app. Payment methods include cash, check, or Scan & Pay.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites are available, but must be claimed in person. Availability cannot be predicted in advance.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee if canceled the day before or on the day of arrival. No-shows incur a $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night’s recreation fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Willows Campground offers a variety of recreational activities such as fishing, hiking, swimming, and tubing on the South Fork Ogden River. Causey Reservoir, two miles away, adds opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding. "Popular local recreation activities include fishing, hiking, swimming, and tubing down the South Fork Ogden River," as stated in the official description.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available in and around the campground. Detailed trail information is not provided, but the proximity to Causey Reservoir points to potential nearby trails.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Willows Campground, especially in the South Fork Ogden River adjacent to the site. Reviews highlight "wonderful fishing" opportunities.Swimming
Campers can swim or float in the nearby South Fork Ogden River. A life jacket is required for tubing in the river.Boating
The nearby Causey Reservoir, located two miles east, is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and other non-motorized boating activities.Wildlife viewing
The area is frequented by various birds and wildlife. Campers are advised to follow 'Bear Country' precautions.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are common at Causey Reservoir, which is two miles from the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Fireworks are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10pm-6am
Hazards
General hazardsLocated in bear country. Proper food and trash storage are required to avoid attracting wildlife.
Active alertsThis is a 'pack it in, pack it out' facility. Visitors must bring trash bags and manage their own waste.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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 (approx. 20 miles away), local hospital facilities likely in Ogden.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to September 01.
Trash and recyclingThis is a 'pack it in, pack it out' facility, so campers are encouraged to bring trash bags for their own waste. Trash dumpsters are available, but overall waste and recycling services are limited.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the South Fork Ogden River; Causey Reservoir (ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding) is two miles east.
Common complaintsComplaints include dirty restrooms at times, closely packed campsites, noise from nearby roads, and overcrowding during peak weekends.
HostThe camp host has received high praise for being friendly, helpful, and maintaining cleanliness. Special mentions include Todd and Paul.
Campground Map
Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, UT-39, Huntsville, UT, 84317
Driving directionsFrom I-15 in Ogden, Utah take the 12th Street exit and continue east through Ogden Canyon. Continue on Highway 39 toward Monte Cristo. The campgrounds in the complex are: Magpie, Botts, South Fork, Perception Park, Upper and Lower Meadows, and Willows in order from west to east. Each site has signs.
Accessible via paved roads, but note the campground area may have gravel spurs and roads. Seasonal closures or conditions are not explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Ogden (approx. 20 miles), Huntsville (less than 10 miles)
Nearby supplies
Essential supplies are available in Huntsville or Ogden. Firewood is available on-site for $9, and extra vehicles incur a $10 daily fee (paid on-site, cash/check).
Camper Reviews
4.5
44 reviews
Willows Campground (Ut) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Willows Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment of 4.38 out of 5. Positive remarks focus on the proximity to the river, the efforts of camp hosts (notably Todd and Paul), and the clean facilities. However, some reviews point out issues like noise, lack of privacy, and occasionally unclean restrooms.
Review Summaries
Based on 44 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciated the "clean and well-maintained" facilities, the helpfulness of camp hosts, and the scenic location by the South Fork Ogden River. Activities like tubing, swimming, and fishing...
Based on 44 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes "super dirty and stinky" restrooms, limited privacy in campsites, noise from nearby roads, and occasional overcrowding. Some users also noted poor management during busy...
Based on 44 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
To ensure a quieter experience, avoid weekends when the campground tends to be busier. Bring earplugs to mitigate noise from nearby roads. Reviewers recommend visiting Causey Reservoir for kayaking...
Based on 44 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest summer weekdays are the best time for a quieter experience, as weekends are often busy with noise and crowds. Users found spring and fall weather pleasant for camping, while summer...
Based on 44 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The camp host, Todd, was absolutely wonderful. He kept the bathrooms clean and was a great conversation partner." "We loved having water creek so close to our sites, so my kids get to play in it."...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 6 is praised for its shade and space for multiple tents and cars. Sites 10 and 11 are noted for good river access. Campsite 14 is described as visually secluded but close to the road, leading to...
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Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features at the campground.
Based on 44 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but rules require leashes no longer than six feet and immediate clean-up of waste. Some users mentioned the campground being pet-friendly.
Based on 44 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025