Shady Dell Campground

For Utah locals and visitors alike, the call of the Uinta Mountains is irresistible. Shady Dell Campground, nestled along the curves of the Provo River, offers a peaceful and picturesque retreat that feels a world away from the city yet remains easily accessible. This is a place where the sound of a rushing river and the scent of pine trees create the perfect backdrop for a quintessential mountain camping experience. Shady Dell is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a tranquil haven where you can reconnect with nature, explore the stunning landscape, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Its location on the famous Mirror Lake Scenic Byway makes it a perfect starting point for countless adventures.

Shady Dell Campground provides a classic, back-to-nature camping experience without sacrificing essential amenities. The campsites are spacious, set among a dense forest of pine, fir, and aspen trees that provide ample shade and a sense of privacy. The atmosphere is consistently described as peaceful and beautiful, with a friendly camp host to ensure your stay is comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you are looking for a base camp for your hiking and fishing expeditions or simply a quiet spot to relax by the fire, Shady Dell Campground delivers. It's an ideal spot for anyone seeking a serene getaway from the summer heat and the bustle of urban life.

Shady Dell Campground is located at UT-150, Kamas, UT 84036, USA, placing it directly on the celebrated Mirror Lake Scenic Byway in the Uinta Mountains. From Kamas, simply take State Route 150 (the byway) east for approximately 17 miles. The campground is well-marked with a sign on the right side of the road, making it easy to find. While it is right off the road, the natural setting and the flowing Provo River help to create a sense of seclusion. Its location at an elevation of 8,200 feet offers a refreshing escape, with temperatures significantly cooler than in the Salt Lake Valley.

The accessibility of Shady Dell Campground is a major advantage. It’s easily reachable for a wide range of vehicles, from passenger cars to RVs, as the parking spurs are paved. The campground also features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot, demonstrating its commitment to being an inclusive destination for all campers. While the byway is popular, the campground's layout and natural features help to buffer the sounds of passing traffic, and the close proximity to the Lower Provo River creates its own natural soundtrack. The convenient location also means you're just a short drive from numerous reservoirs, trails, and scenic viewpoints along the byway, offering a vast playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

Shady Dell Campground provides a thoughtful selection of services that cater to a comfortable and rustic camping experience. While it does not offer full hookups for RVs, it provides all the basics needed for an enjoyable stay in the mountains.

• Running Water: The campground is equipped with multiple well water stations that provide clean, drinkable water. This is a significant convenience, allowing campers to easily refill water bottles and jugs without having to bring all their water with them.

• Public Restrooms: Several vault toilets are available throughout the campground. Visitors frequently note that they are well-maintained and kept clean, which is a major plus for a public campground.

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite comes with a picnic table, providing a convenient and clean surface for meals, games, and gathering with your group.

• Tent Sites: The campground is a great destination for tent campers, with designated tent sites that are often nestled into the trees for extra shade and privacy.

• On-site Parking: Every site has a dedicated parking spur, making it easy to park your vehicle and unload your gear right at your campsite.

• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed at the campground, so you don't have to leave your furry companions at home. This makes it an ideal spot for those who enjoy camping with their pets.

Shady Dell Campground stands out due to its many special features and natural highlights. These elements combine to create an unforgettable camping experience that is both relaxing and full of opportunities for adventure.

• Proximity to the Provo River: A major highlight is the rushing Provo River that flows right behind the campground. It’s just a short walk from your campsite, providing excellent opportunities for trout fishing, and the sound of the water creates a wonderfully soothing ambiance.

• Abundant Shade and Scenery: The dense forest of mature pine, fir, and aspen trees provides ample shade, making for a much cooler and more comfortable camping experience. This is especially welcome during Utah’s warm summer months. The scenery is consistently described as beautiful, with plenty of fun places to explore right from your site.

• Ideal for Families and Kids: With its peaceful setting and proximity to the river, the campground is excellent for kids. They can enjoy exploring the natural surroundings, and the camp host is known for being friendly and helpful, adding to the welcoming atmosphere for families.

• Access to Mirror Lake Scenic Byway: Being located on this byway gives you easy access to countless recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, fishing in various alpine lakes, and off-road vehicle trails in the nearby Soapstone Basin. It’s a perfect launching point for day trips to explore the wider Uinta Mountains.

• Well-Managed and Maintained: Visitors often praise the cleanliness and well-maintained nature of the campground, from the restrooms to the fire rings with grill tops. This attention to detail ensures a comfortable and hassle-free stay.

For inquiries or to confirm current conditions, you can use the following contact information.

Address: UT-150, Kamas, UT 84036, USA

Phone: (385) 273-1100

Mobile Phone: +1 385-273-1100

Shady Dell Campground is worth choosing for your next outdoor adventure because it strikes a perfect balance between accessibility and a genuine wilderness feel. Unlike some campgrounds that can feel overly commercialized, Shady Dell retains a peaceful, rustic charm while providing the essential amenities that make a camping trip enjoyable. The convenience of having running water, clean restrooms, and a friendly camp host on site allows you to focus on what truly matters: relaxing and enjoying nature. Its unique location next to the rushing Provo River and along the iconic Mirror Lake Scenic Byway gives it an edge, offering a beautiful natural soundscape and a gateway to a wealth of outdoor activities. For those in Utah looking for a beautiful, serene, and well-managed campground that is good for kids and welcoming to dogs, Shady Dell is an exceptional choice that promises a memorable escape into the Uinta Mountains.

Shady Dell Campground

UT-150, Kamas, UT 84036, USA