Duchesne Tunnel Campground

A Scenic and Secluded Escape: Welcome to Duchesne Tunnel Campground

For those who appreciate a rustic and secluded camping experience without being too far from the beaten path, Duchesne Tunnel Campground offers a compelling retreat. Located in the picturesque Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest near Kamas, this campground is a favorite among local Utah campers who seek out natural beauty and a quiet atmosphere, especially on weekdays. It is a place where the sound of the nearby Duchesne River provides a calming backdrop and the impressive Duchesne Tunnel—a significant piece of local history—stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity. The campground provides a great base camp for exploring the surrounding high-country landscape.

This overview will give you a clear and engaging look at what makes Duchesne Tunnel Campground a unique and worthwhile destination. We'll cover its specific location and accessibility, the amenities it offers, and the key features that set it apart. Whether you are in a large RV or a smaller tent, this guide will help you prepare for a memorable and serene camping trip in the Uintas.

Location and Accessibility: Navigating to Your Mountain Getaway

Duchesne Tunnel Campground is located at FR 417, Kamas, UT 84036, USA. Its remote feel is part of its charm, but campers should be prepared for the journey to get there. Visitors have noted that the entrance to the campground, as well as the roads throughout, can be quite bumpy and rocky. A 35-foot travel trailer was able to navigate the site, but visitors with larger RVs may want to scout it out first before pulling into a potentially difficult spot. The roads are described as somewhat narrow, so careful driving is recommended.

Despite these navigational challenges, the payoff is a beautiful, peaceful location. Once you arrive, you'll find plenty of on-site parking at each campsite. The campground is situated right next to the Duchesne River, with the river's audible presence creating a soothing natural soundtrack for your stay. For those coming from the Wasatch Front, the campground is a great high-country escape.

Services Offered

• RV and Tent Sites: The campground offers a mix of sites, including some that are very large and level, suitable for longer RVs and multiple tents. All sites are equipped with fire pits.

• Camping Fees: A camping fee is required to stay at the campground. You should bring cash, as there are self-serve stations for payment. A National Parks annual pass is also a valid form of payment.

• On-site Parking: Each campsite provides dedicated on-site parking.

Features / Highlights

• Beautiful Scenery: The campground is set in a stunning natural environment. The sites are spacious, with some located right next to the river, offering a very scenic experience.

• Proximity to the River: The Duchesne River runs right next to the campground, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere. While the river is audible, it is not excessively loud, contributing to a calm experience.

• Good for Kids: The campground is noted as being "good for kids." The large, open sites provide plenty of room for children to play and explore in a natural setting.

• Access to the Duchesne Tunnel: The campground is a short walk from the historic Duchesne Tunnel. This is an incredible feature to explore. The tunnel was built to channel water from the Duchesne River into the Provo River, and is a fascinating example of early 20th-century engineering.

• Peace and Quiet (on weekdays): Visitors report that while weekends can be busy with ATVs, the campground is very quiet and peaceful during the week, making it a great option for a midweek getaway.

• Recreation Pass Accepted: The campground allows a 14-day camping limit for those with a recreation pass for the Uintas, which is a significant benefit for long-term stays.

Contact Information

Address: FR 417, Kamas, UT 84036, USA

The provided information does not include a specific public phone number. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees, availability, and road conditions, it is best to check with the Kamas Ranger District office of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest.

What is Worth Choosing Duchesne Tunnel Campground

Duchesne Tunnel Campground is an excellent choice for local Utah campers who are looking for a more rustic and quiet experience. The campground's beauty, with its large, level sites and river-side location, provides a peaceful and comfortable environment. It is a fantastic option for those who want to disconnect and enjoy the simple pleasures of nature.

The fact that the sites are large and can accommodate a variety of camping units, including 35-foot travel trailers, is a significant plus. The proximity to the Duchesne River and the Duchesne Tunnel adds a unique element of both natural beauty and historical interest that you won't find at many other campgrounds. The combination of a beautiful setting, kid-friendly spaces, and the opportunity for a long-term stay with a recreation pass makes it a top-tier destination for many Utah residents.

While the rocky and bumpy entrance road may be a drawback for some, it is also what keeps the campground feeling secluded and less crowded than more easily accessible sites. For those willing to navigate the short, rough stretch of road, the reward is a truly beautiful and well-maintained campground that feels like a hidden gem in the Uinta Mountains. It is a perfect place to relax, listen to the river, and enjoy the peace and quiet of the great outdoors.

Duchesne Tunnel Campground

FR 417, Kamas, UT 84036, USA