Camping at Green River Campground

Overview

Green River Campground is located within Dinosaur National Monument, which straddles the border between Colorado and Utah. This site offers visitors a unique combination of scenic landscapes, remarkable geology, and fascinating paleontological resources.

Camping Details

• Location: Green River Campground is situated in the Utah portion of Dinosaur National Monument, about five miles from the visitor center near the town of Jensen, Utah.

• Seasonality: The campground typically operates from early April to mid-October, but exact dates can vary due to weather and other conditions. It's important to check with the National Park Service (NPS) for current operating times.

• Campsites: There are around 80 campsites available. These sites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs, although length restrictions may apply. Some sites might offer a few amenities like picnic tables, fire pits, and charcoal grills.

• Reservations: Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season (late spring through early fall). They can be made through the Recreation.gov website or by calling the reservation hotline.

• Amenities: The campground provides restrooms with flush toilets and sinks. However, there are no shower facilities on site.

• Fees: There is a nightly fee for camping in addition to the park entrance fee. The rates can vary, so check the latest fees on the NPS website or Recreation.gov.

• Access: Roads into and throughout the campground are typically paved, allowing for good access in most types of vehicles.

Activities in the Area

• Hiking: Numerous trails start in or near the campground, ranging from easy walks to more strenuous hikes.

• Fishing: The Green River is known for its fishing opportunities, where you can try your luck catching trout.

• Wildlife Viewing: The area is home to a variety of wildlife, from birds and small mammals to larger creatures such as mule deer and bighorn sheep.

• Ranger Programs: The NPS often offers ranger-led programs that may include talks, guided walks, and children's activities.

• Petroglyphs and Pictographs: View ancient rock art left behind by prehistoric peoples in designated trails and areas throughout the monument.

• Quarry Exhibit Hall: Visit the famous wall of dinosaur bones, where over 1,500 dinosaur fossils are visible in a cliff face, just a short drive from the campground.

Important Tips

• Firewood: Transporting firewood in or out of the park is discouraged to prevent the spread of pests. You can obtain local firewood at or near the campground.

• Water: While drinking water is available at the campground, it's advised to bring plenty of your own just in case, especially for more remote explorations.

• Food Storage: Store food securely to avoid attracting wildlife, particularly bears.

• Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the natural environment.

• Weather: Be prepared for rapid weather changes; thunderstorms are common in summer, and temperatures can fluctuate widely from day to night.

Regulations and Safety

• Pets: Pets must be kept on a leash at all times, and they are only allowed in designated areas. They cannot be left unattended.

• Quiet Hours: Normally enforced from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

• Speed Limit: Observe a speed limit of 15 mph in the campground to ensure the safety of all visitors and wildlife.

• Emergency Services: Be aware that the closest medical facilities are located in Vernal, Utah, approximately 20 miles from the campground.

• Fire Safety: Follow all fire regulations; open fires may be restricted at certain times due to wildfire danger.

• Check Current Conditions: Always check with the NPS for the most current conditions, regulations, and alerts before your trip.

Taking all the necessary precautions and following park regulations will help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to the Green River Campground and the broader Dinosaur National Monument area.