Steinaker State Park
00 review4335 NORTH HIGHWAY 191, VERNAL, Utah, 84078-7800, United States
Steinaker State Park
$25.00 - $35.00 / 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
Fees for damage to the cabin or yurt are the responsibility of the person or persons named on the reservation. Actual costs associated with repairing any damage or excessive cleaning will be charged to the person named on the reservation.
About this campground
Where ancient seas once lapped against prehistoric shores, Steinaker State Park now beckons modern adventurers with its sparkling reservoir and sun-warmed sandy beaches. Nestled in the heart of Dinosaurland just north of Vernal, this aquatic oasis transforms Utah's high desert into a water recreation paradise. Whether you're casting a line for year-round fishing, carving through crystal waters on skis, or simply floating under endless blue skies, Steinaker offers the perfect basecamp with 31 well-appointed campsites welcoming both RV travelers and tent camping enthusiasts.
Steinaker State Park accommodates both RV and tent campers with 31 campsites. Group camping is also available.
Historical SignificanceEvery ripple on Steinaker's waters tells a story of pioneering spirit and community vision. Named in honor of John Steinaker, whose family helped shape this rugged corner of Utah through generations of ranching, the park stands as a testament to the transformation of the American West. When groundbreaking for the dam began in 1961, it marked the beginning of a new chapter for the region. By 1964, when the park first welcomed visitors, the Steinaker family's legacy had evolved from taming the land to creating a recreational haven that continues to bring joy to thousands of families each year.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Utah's dynamic climate at Steinaker, where each season paints the landscape in different hues. Spring arrives with gentle warmth, inviting early-season anglers and nature lovers as temperatures climb from crisp mornings to comfortable afternoons. Summer transforms the park into a bustling water playground, with long sunny days perfect for swimming and boating. As autumn approaches, cooler temperatures create ideal conditions for peaceful camping under star-filled skies. Winter brings a serene transformation, with light dustings of snow creating a quiet wonderland where dedicated anglers enjoy uncrowded waters, though freezing temperatures remind visitors to pack warm layers for their adventure.
ElevationPerched at the unique elevation where high desert meets mountain foothills, Steinaker State Park offers visitors a distinctive climate and ecosystem that supports both warm-water recreation and comfortable camping conditions throughout much of the year.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a landscape where time has left its fascinating fingerprints at every turn. The centerpiece Steinaker Reservoir, born from the impressive Steinaker Dam, mirrors the vast Utah sky while harboring secrets from an ancient past. Along the shoreline, lucky explorers discover remarkable fossilized treasures – prehistoric oysters, clams, and other marine life that prove this arid landscape once lay beneath primordial seas. The juxtaposition of water sports and paleontological wonders creates a unique playground where families can waterski in the morning and hunt for 150-million-year-old fossils in the afternoon, all while surrounded by the dramatic red rock formations that make this region famous.
Geological RegionWelcome to Dinosaurland, where Steinaker State Park serves as a living museum of Earth's incredible history. This geological wonderland in northeastern Utah preserves evidence of ancient oceans in its fossil-rich formations, where prehistoric oysters, clams, and diverse shellfish remain perfectly preserved in stone. The park's location in this paleontologically significant region means visitors aren't just camping – they're setting up their tents in a place where dinosaurs once roamed and ancient seas carved the very rocks beneath their feet. It's a humbling reminder that long before humans discovered the joy of waterskiing, this landscape hosted an entirely different kind of aquatic life.
Campsite details
Sites PrivacyIndividual campsites are described as being 'a little close to each other,' but trees provide a degree of privacy, making each spot feel remote.
Total Campsites31 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose waterfront group sites for scenic views, but ensure tent space is adequate as user reviews indicate limited room for tents.
Best CampsitesWaterfront group sites with amenities like covered pavilions were described as beautiful.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
10:00 PM (gate closing time)
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
Agroup site accommodating up to 50 people is available. However, a user review noted, 'More than half of the group site was flooded, forcing campers to use pavement RV slots.'
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are close together but have sufficient tree coverage to provide privacy according to user reviews.
Open and Closed SeasonThe park appears to be open year-round; seasonal restrictions were not noted.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can likely be made by contacting the Ranger Station directly. Online platforms were not specified.
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation PolicyRules for canceling reservations without penalty are not specified.
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
Dump station
Firewood available
Activities you can enjoy
Steinaker State Park is centered around water and outdoor activities. These include swimming, boating, waterskiing, and fishing. The park also provides hiking trails and scenic views. Geology enthusiasts will find fossil exploration opportunities nearby.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, offering scenic views and opportunities for exploration.Fishing
Fishing is available year-round, with anglers targeting rainbow trout and largemouth bass.Swimming
Swimming is typically a popular activity at Steinaker, but recent toxic algae blooms have made the water unsafe for this purpose according to user reviews.Boating
Boating, waterskiing, and other water-based recreation activities are highlights of Steinaker State Park.Beach activities
The park features sandy beaches that are ideal for relaxation and recreation.Water Sports
Activities such as waterskiing and boating are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood is available for sale within the park, but specific fire policies were not detailed.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mentioned flooding of group sites and toxic algae blooms in the water, restricting swimming.
Active alertsToxic algae blooms were reported, leading to restricted swimming. Flooding issues at group sites were also mentioned.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 11 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Ranger Station available within the facility. Information about hospitals or police stations is null.
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located next to a reservoir created by Steinaker Dam, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and scenic views.
Common complaintsFlooded group sites and toxic algae blooms affecting water recreation were cited in user reviews.
HostInformation about campground hosts is not provided.
Campground Map
4335 NORTH HIGHWAY 191, VERNAL, Utah, 84078-7800, United States
Driving directionsTake Interstate 80 east to US 40 to Heber City. Travel through Heber on this road through Duchesne and Roosevelt and into Vernal. From Vernal, travel on US 40 (Main Street), to Vernal Avenue (Hwy 191), turn left and follow seven miles to the park.
The campground is accessible via paved roads and is located just off Utah Highway 191. Seasonal challenges or closures were not specified, but gates close at 10 p.m.Nearby places
Vernal (7 miles, approximately 8 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Proximity to Vernal (7 miles away) suggests access to groceries, camping supplies, and fuel. Specific supply locations are null.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Steinaker State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The reviews for Steinaker State Park are mixed. Positive aspects include cleanliness, the proximity of campsites to the water, and the availability of amenities. Negative reviews highlight issues such as flooding at group sites and algae blooms in the water.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Cleanliness of the campground, proximity to water, availability of firewood, and shaded campsites with trees providing privacy.
Common Concerns
Flooded group campsites, algae blooms in the water making it unsafe for swimming, and limited space for tents at the group site.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should check water conditions in advance due to periodic algae blooms. Group campers should confirm site conditions before arrival.
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are popular for water activities, but recent algae blooms have disrupted swimming. Seasonal flooding has affected group sites.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Super nice campground! The park is kept very clean.' 2. 'Individual camp sites are a little close to each other, but there are enough trees to help make each spot feel remote and private.' 3....
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Site-Specific Reviews
The group campsite received mixed reviews. While it offers a covered pavilion and waterfront location, it has been reported as prone to flooding with limited tent space.
Last updated August 10, 2025