Camping at Hideout Canyon Boat-In Campground

Overview of Hideout Canyon Boat-In Campground

Hideout Canyon Boat-In Campground is a unique camping destination located within Ashley National Forest in Utah, offering a more secluded and primitive camping experience. The campground is accessible only by boat, making it an ideal location for those looking for a remote escape within the natural beauty of the forest and the adjacent Flaming Gorge Reservoir.

Location

Hideout Canyon Boat-In Campground is situated along the shores of Flaming Gorge Reservoir. The reservoir is in the northeastern corner of Utah and the Ashley National Forest encompasses it as well as other nearby natural wonders.

Access

Since it is a boat-in campground, personal watercraft or a rented vessel is required to reach the sites. Nearest boat launching facilities can be used to access the campground:

• Cedar Springs Marina
• Mustang Ridge Campground
• Flaming Gorge Resort

Keep in mind that water levels change seasonally, which can impact both access and the suitability of the shoreline for anchoring or beaching boats.

Camping Experience

Sites:

• There are individual campsites available, each offering a picnic table and a fire ring.
• Sites are dispersed and usually offer a degree of privacy and seclusion.
• There are no hookups or electricity available at these sites, providing a true rustic experience.

Amenities:

• Toilets are available, but they may be vault toilets as opposed to flush facilities.
• Drinking water is not offered at the campground; you must bring your own supply.
• There's no trash service; practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out your waste.

Activities:

• Water-based recreation dominates, with fishing, boating, and swimming being popular.
• The scenery also allows for some calm and serene nature photography.
• Hiking opportunities are available in the surrounding Ashley National Forest.

Reservations and Fees

A breakdown of fees and whether advanced reservations are possible:

Reservations:

• Depending on the season, the campground sites might be first-come, first-served or available through reservation. Check current systems used by the Forest Service for reserving campsites (e.g., Recreation.gov).

Fees:

• There is often a nightly fee for camping.
• Additional fees may apply for extra vehicles, if space permits.
• Since no services are provided, fees tend to be more modest than developed campgrounds.

Safety and Regulations

It's important to be mindful of safety and regulations given the remote nature of the campground:

Safety:

• Bring navigation tools, as GPS devices may not work reliably in remote areas.
• Weather can change rapidly on the reservoir—be prepared for sudden winds or storms.
• Use life vests when on the water and be mindful of swimmer safety.

Regulations:

• Open fires may be restricted or prohibited due to wildfire dangers; follow posted signs and guidelines.
• Fishing requires a Utah state fishing license; adhere to state regulations and catch limits.
• Ensure your boat complies with state watercraft regulations.
• Campers must adhere to the Leave No Trace Seven Principles to minimize their impact on the environment.

Best Time to Visit

The prime time to visit Hideout Canyon Boat-In Campground typically spans from late spring to early fall when the weather is milder and the reservoir is accessible. Check local weather and water conditions before planning your trip, as well as the forest service website for seasonal access and services.

Contact Information

For the latest and most accurate information prior to planning a trip to Hideout Canyon Boat-In Campground, it is recommended to contact the Ashley National Forest Ranger District directly or visit their website which will have current conditions, restrictions, and any alerts that might affect your planned visit.