Playing tourist, we did a little campground reconnaissance & found this site – very spacious with a knock-out view through the Ponderosa pines. We just had to take it.
Firefighters Memorial Campground in Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area - Forest Service Campground — Ashley National Forest, near Dutch John, UT: Site #51 (94 RV sites total) - This site has: water nearby. Campground Notes: flush toilets • dump station available (fee) • lake/river access nearby • trails nearby • 6,900’ elevation. July 18th - 20th. Miles traveled: 7.
Pros:
• Most sites spacious.
• Some sites in the no reservation loop have very nice views.
• Dump station.
Cons:
• Dump station is an extra fee.
• A lot of commotion & noise well into the evening.
• Generators continued running into quit time.Overall Experience:
This memorial plaque is dedicated to the three men who lost their lives fighting the Cart Creek fire in 1977 and the bravery of all who risk their lives fighting wildfires. The campground was also named in their honor.
The Firefighters Memorial Campground is a scenic and serene campground located just 3 miles from the beautiful Flaming Gorge Reservoir in the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area on the Ashley National Forest in Utah. The campground serves as a memorial to three firefighters who tragically lost their lives in the 1977 Cart Creek Fire.
Campsites and Amenities
- 94 campsites
- One double site
- 6 accessible sites
- All equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings
- Some campsites also have grills available
- Drinking water, flush and vault toilets provided
- Situated about 2 miles southeast of the town of Dutch John, Utah
Recreational Activities
Visitors to the Firefighters Memorial Campground can enjoy a variety of recreational activities in the surrounding Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area:
- Boating, Fishing, and Water Sports: The Flaming Gorge Reservoir is a popular destination for these activities.
- Hiking: Excellent hiking trails ranging from easy nature walks to more challenging backcountry treks.
- Wildlife Viewing: Opportunity to spot deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and various bird species.
Memorial Site
The campground itself serves as a solemn memorial to the three firefighters who lost their lives in the 1977 Cart Creek Fire. Visitors can learn more about the tragic event and pay their respects at the memorial site within the campground. The campground provides a peaceful and reflective setting for visitors to honor the memory of these brave individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Popular Destination
In addition to its memorial significance, the Firefighters Memorial Campground is a popular destination for campers and outdoor enthusiasts:
- Its proximity to the Flaming Gorge Reservoir and its scenic natural surroundings make it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful and picturesque camping experience.
- The campground is open from late spring through early fall, with the peak season typically running from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
- Reservations are recommended, especially during the busier summer months, as the campground can fill up quickly.
The Firefighters Memorial Campground offers a unique and meaningful camping experience within the stunning Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. Its serene setting, proximity to the Flaming Gorge Reservoir, and its role as a memorial to fallen firefighters make it a special and memorable destination for visitors.
