The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Ballard, Utah

In Ballard, you’ll find over 780 campsites right on the river, with prices starting at just $10 a night and averaging around $40. Most sites offer toilets, allow campfires, and welcome pets, making it easy to settle in and relax. Rivers here aren’t just for show—locals swim, spot wildlife, or break out snow gear when winter hits. Check out Hope Acres Glampground (43 reviews) for a spot where you can watch deer at dusk, Carter Family Property (15 reviews) for a quieter stretch of water, or HIBERNATION STATION (14 reviews) if you want easy river access. Expect the usual campfire chatter, the rush of water nearby, and mornings that start with crisp air and birdsong. Book early—river camps in Ballard don’t stay open for long spots.

90% (95)

Top-rated campgrounds

In Ballard, you’ll find over 780 campsites right on the river, with prices starting at just $10 a night and averaging around $40. Most sites offer toilets, allow campfires, and welcome pets, making it easy to settle in and relax. Rivers here aren’t just for show—locals swim, spot wildlife, or break out snow gear when winter hits. Check out Hope Acres Glampground (43 reviews) for a spot where you can watch deer at dusk, Carter Family Property (15 reviews) for a quieter stretch of water, or HIBERNATION STATION (14 reviews) if you want easy river access. Expect the usual campfire chatter, the rush of water nearby, and mornings that start with crisp air and birdsong. Book early—river camps in Ballard don’t stay open for long spots.

90% (95)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Hope Acres Glampground

98%

(64)

39mi from Ballard · 7 sites · Lodging · Tabiona, UT

Looking for a Glamping experience? Hope Acres Glampground is in the tall Pinion Pines at 7800 feet atop of a Mesa in Northern Utah. Just minutes from 2 large Reservoirs, Strawberry and Starvation to include mountain lakes, rivers for fishing, boating, Canoeing, Kayaking, Swimming and other water activities. In the middle of mountainous country, there are many hiking trails as well as off road UTV and ATV trails for riding the back country. If your into sightseeing then this is the place, with many different species of wildlife that roam this beautiful landscape as well as a Birds Eye view of the high terrain that awaits you. Hope Acres has beautiful Bell Tents that are placed on elevated decks with comfortable queen beds and some twins. Each tent boasts air conditioning that provides the comforts of home while enjoying the outdoors. Each camp site is a spacious 50 feet from the next and offers a personal bathroom as well as a shower, picnic table, high speed internet, hammock, BBQ and outdoor sink, amenities for an enjoyable experience. If you are looking for a hideaway then come experience the beauty while relaxing and making memories at Hope Acres, we look forward to seeing you.

2. Carter Family Property

96%

(24)

31mi from Ballard · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Jensen, UT

Ever wanted to camp on the Green River? Well we invite you to come stay on our property and do just that. Come injoy white sandy beaches nestled in around trees right on the green river where the only sounds you'll hear, are the sounds of nature. Enjoy fishing, tubing or kayaking down the river or even 4-wheeling (depending on the time of year)

3. Sandstone Ranch

92%

(13)

29mi from Ballard · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Duchesne, UT

Welcome to Sandstone Ranch where you'll find yourself surrounded with all of the high desert beauty it has to offer. Wake up and wind down to beautiful pastel sunrises and sunsets. Explore the stunning rock formations and steep cliff sides that lead into seasonal river beds. You'll be surrounded by juniper trees, pine trees, sagebrush and cactus. With numerous rivers and secluded access to Starvation Reservoir you can enjoy many recreational activities such as Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Jet Skiing, ATV off-roading, hiking, mountain biking. You can rent Paddle boards or other camping gear/goods from us for an extra fee. We also offer a personal off roading tour for those who seek a unique adventure with our Sand Dune Jeep Safari. Our family of 6 took the leap and left the city life in order to reconnect to the land on this 16 acre property. We are in the beginnings of our homestead journey and hope to create a space for guests like you to enjoy our animal rescue, camp retreats for groups, classes on herbalism and camp for kids where they can learn basic survival skills. It is this love for nature and the gifts that it offers to us all that we want to share our land with others. We currently offer 1 Tent Site with a fire pit and an outhouse. There is also a large flat pad for parking an RV or if you're wanting to camp out of your vehicle you are free to use this space. We will be expanding and offering more sites in the coming months. This is wilderness camping so be aware that there is wildlife and that roads are bumpy. We have 4 curious dogs that may check you out, they are friendly however may bark and if you have pets of your own let us know so we can keep them from pestering you. Please contact us with any special requests or questions and we'll be happy to assist you.

4. Vernal Field Office

50 sites · Vernal, Utah

The Bureau of Land Management’s Field Office in Vernal oversees a vast amount of public lands in Utah. And, if you’ve ever seen a pic of anything in Utah, you know the scenery is going to be unreal pretty much anywhere you go…and Vernal is no exception! Why not go check out the Book Cliffs, a mountain range that extends nearly 200 miles? You’ll see the trademark red rocks of the southern part of the state, and even tons of greenery common in the northern and alpine regions. Or, how about the dreamily named Fantasy Canyon? This unique spot is in northeastern Utah, and despite its small size, it has some of the most unique geology in the whole freakin’ world. Want to try river rafting? The White River is one of several options, and it’s considered one of the best canoeing, camping, and kayaking rivers in the whole darn state. Now that we’ve given you a few ideas for your next trip, when are you going to make your way out here?

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Ashley National Forest

88%

(13)

1000 sites · Whiterocks, Utah

Choose some majestic highlights in this mountainous national forest.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. Sandy beaches on the Green River

91%

(11)

25mi from Ballard · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Jensen, UT

This Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent (or rent one of ours) on the beautiful sandy beaches of the Green River. You will be surrounded by the unique landscape of North Eastern Utah. The river is constantly changing so the exact location of the campsite is adjusted accordingly to provide the best experience for our guests. You will have a private campsite with BBQ pit or fire ring, fire starter kit, and wood. There is access to a common area for latrine, dressing area, gravity fed solar shower, and eco-friendly toiletries. The river is full of fun and relaxation. There are life vests, kid and adult kayaks, sand toys, and more available for rent. The campsite is on the fringe of a large hay farm so you may spot farming in action. Expect a 15-20 minute drive to downtown with many food, entertainment, and amenities offered. There is a diversity of wildlife to be seen on site. It is a bird watchers paradise, don't be surprised if you spot a bald eagle, Canadian geese, peregrine falcon, cranes, meadow lark, red-wing black bird, and more! Depending on the time of year you may see deer, antelope, racoon, beaver, or the occasional skunk or coyote.

7. Raspberry Ranch

67%

(3)

33mi from Ballard · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Altamont, UT

Property adjacent to Lake Fork river and 2.9 miles from Moon Lake resort. Beautiful mountain property with close access to fishing, boating, hunting and hiking. Firepit and table overlook river. Resort rents boats, kayaks and paddleboards. Potable water available (hose). Site will accommodate up to two 30 ft RVs.

8. Price Field Office

4 sites · Price, Utah

The Price Bureau of Land Management Field Office is perfect for any number of outdoor activities, but we’ve gotta give a major hat tip to the phenomenal river-based recreation that’s going on out here. Evidence of water’s work on the landscape is obvious everywhere you go, whether you’re on the water itself or simply exploring a deep canyon. The scenery is openly amazeballs, but these canyons also let you catch a glimpse of what life would have been like for explorers of the past, and it’s a downright fascinating experience. For water lovers, what to do is a no-brainer…set out on a rafting and camping trip! Beginners should always go with a trip outfitter or with experienced friends. Conditions can change quickly in this part of the country, and as you’ll be able to see from the landscapes, this is definitely a place of extremes. Mostly, it’s just extremely awesome.

Toilets

Campfires

9. Dinosaur National Monument

100%

(12)

84 sites · Jensen, Utah

Jurassic Park lovers, rejoice! Some of the best dinosaur tracks in the world are found here.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

10. Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

90%

(94)

2666 sites · Levan, Utah

2.1 million acres of unique wilderness scenery just begging to be explored.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Ballard

Pelican Lake Campground

15mi from Ballard · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Vernal Field Office

Whiterocks Campground

22mi from Ballard · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ashley National Forest

Massey Meadow Camping Area

24mi from Ballard · 1 site · in Ashley National Forest

Uinta Canyon Campground

25mi from Ballard · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ashley National Forest

Uinta River Group Campground

25mi from Ballard · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Ashley National Forest

Yellowstone Group Campground

27mi from Ballard · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Ashley National Forest

Bridge Campground

27mi from Ballard · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ashley National Forest

Pole Creek Lake Campground

27mi from Ballard · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ashley National Forest

Reservoir Campground

28mi from Ballard · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ashley National Forest

Riverview Campground

29mi from Ballard · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ashley National Forest

100%

(1)

Swift Creek Campground

30mi from Ballard · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ashley National Forest

Paradise Guard Station

30mi from Ballard · 1 site · in Ashley National Forest

Stories from the community

S

Shelly

November 2025

23 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Carter Family Property

Surrounded by trees and crunchy fall leaves! We booked last minute and Kayla was very responsive and accommodating. We had water and power and all the quiet and peace we needed. Kayla is quick to respond to messages and happy to help! We will stay again!

T

October 2025

26 ft travel trailer

Group trip

2 nights at Carter Family Property

We very much enjoyed our stay here. It was very easy to park the trailer and very very minimal we had to do to level the trailer. Access to water and electricity was awesome. And a very short walk to the river to go fishing. Will definitely stay here again. Kayla and here husband were amazing hosts.

P

Paige

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Sandstone Ranch

This was such a cute place to camp at! The bathroom was super clean and the mirror was nice to have in the morning. Sunset and sunrise views were incredible, and it was fun to explore the area a bit. I would definitely stay here again.

M

Matthew

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hope Acres Glampground

The directions Matt & Rachel provided were easy to follow, and the property was well-kept. We ended up switching to the Judah tent since another customer had canceled and Isaachar had a broken zipper that hadn't been repaired yet. It was a very peaceful place to spend the night!

T

Tere

July 2025

23 ft fifth wheel

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Raspberry Ranch

We had an amazing time camping at Raspberry Ranch! My fiancé, our friends, and I spent the weekend enjoying the incredible views. On Saturday, we visited Moon Lake, which was less than a 10-minute drive away. The water felt great, and the short distance allowed us to have more time to play in the sun! The host was incredibly kind and provided water and electricity for our trailer. We absolutely plan on going back, and we all highly recommend this place!

A

Alysia

July 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Carter Family Property

I had an amazing time. Peace and calm, exactly what I needed.

t

thomas

July 2025

25 ft travel trailer

1 night at Carter Family Property

The property was very nice. Backed straight up to the river with incredible views. Easy in and out. Very close to dinosaur national monument as well.

R

Rob

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Sandstone Ranch

Description and photos are spot on. I enjoyed my experience. Thanks!

Scott

June 2025

Tent

1 night at Sandstone Ranch

Beautiful out of the way spot on the desert with a neat outhouse to mark the spot. Quiet and relaxing.

A

Alex

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Hope Acres Glampground

Gorgeous land and yurts! Hosts responded quickly and helped me navigate some scheduling conflicts. Mark was so welcoming and helpful. Would highly recommend

Robert

June 2025

40 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Carter Family Property

Nice spot in Jensen and close to dinosaur National Monument. The site was nice and being so close to the river was great. The water was chilly but refreshing. My dog loved swimming. The river sand was super soft. All in all, we had an excellent time and would love to come back. Kayla is super helpful and responsive. There was power and water at the cottonwood site, power was 120 volt extension cord.

H

Heather

June 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at Carter Family Property

Kayla communicated well when we had to come late. Signs guide you to your spot. Great location by the river! Will definitely try to stay here if we’re ever in the area again!

E

Erin

June 2025

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Carter Family Property

Site was flat with a quick path down to the river views! Sunset did not disappoint. Thank you Kayla!

G

Gaia

June 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

With pets

2 nights at Carter Family Property

It was lovely to be right next to the river and Kayla and Wyatt and their daughter Hayzlee were excellent hosts. The first day there was quite a bit of beach in front of our camper and our daughters loved playing in it. Then the water came up and there wasn’t as much left by the end, but that’s the nature of being on a river! The Riverside campsite is pretty tricky to get into with a trailer… Just a heads up depending on the size rig you have and your navigating in tight spaces skills! Kayla and Hayzlee and watched our dog for us two different days so we could go into the monument unencumbered. Thanks so much!

D

Daniel

May 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Sandy beaches on the Green River

Amazing spot! Beautiful, quiet, and peaceful. The beaches and sand bars were very fun to explore in kayaks, which Rebecca rents out for a reasonable price. We came in late May, and the river water level was fine, a good challenge for upstream travel but navigable. Rebecca was good with providing answers to my questions but had some communication challenges because it's a bit off the grid, so you'd likely want questions answered up front. It's a dream spot if you appreciate unconventional camping on the gorgeous Green River.

J

Jonny

May 2025

29 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Raspberry Ranch

The wilderness, the river and lake, the mountains, the wildlife and the people here are next level. You owe it to yourself to camp here. You won’t regret it.

Barbara

May 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Carter Family Property

Very easy to find nice private backyard that backs up to the green river. Heard birds singing all night long by the river and then got to photograph a beautiful California quail on my way out this morning. Kayla was very responsive and tried to anticipate everything I might need.

S

Sujeili

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Hope Acres Glampground

Loved the tent and spot, has everything you need and the trails near by are Beautiful, would recommend 10/10.

Jamie

May 2025

40 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Carter Family Property

Peaceful camping spot! It was closer to the house than I thought, but the positioning of the spot made it completely private with our trailer and truck. Never noticed any noise from the home. The beach access was amazingly beautiful. Water was slow running so it would be great to paddle out onto. Bugs were not an issue like we expected. Kayla's communications were helpful and polite. Will stay here again on future trips to Dino!

c

chuck

May 2025

36 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Carter Family Property

Great spot to park our motorhome. Very private and secluded. The river was a 30 second walk to the sandy shore. Easy to find the place. Kayla was a great host. I would stay here again.