Washington Lake Campground

For Utah residents, the Uinta Mountains are more than just a scenic backdrop—they're a cherished playground for escaping the summer heat and immersing oneself in nature's tranquility. Washington Lake Campground, located at an impressive 10,000 feet of elevation, offers a quintessential high-altitude camping experience. Nestled along the shores of its namesake lake, this campground provides a stunning setting for relaxation, adventure, and creating unforgettable memories. It's the perfect destination for those seeking a break from the ordinary, where the air is crisp, the views are breathtaking, and the peace of the mountains is palpable.

Washington Lake Campground is not just about a place to sleep; it's a destination that caters to a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're an avid angler, a seasoned hiker, a family with kids, or simply a nature lover looking to unwind, you'll find something to love here. The campground is well-regarded for its clean facilities, friendly camp hosts, and spacious sites that provide a welcome sense of privacy. The lake itself is a focal point for activity, inviting visitors to enjoy serene moments on a paddleboard, go fishing for trout, or simply sit by the shore and soak in the serene beauty. This is a place that truly embodies the peace and beauty of the Uinta Mountains, making it a favorite for many returning campers.

Washington Lake Campground is strategically located within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, along the scenic Mirror Lake Highway (FR038), near Kamas, UT 84036, USA. This placement makes it a convenient yet remote escape. To reach the campground, you’ll travel along the stunning Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, which offers spectacular vistas and access to numerous trailheads and alpine lakes. The drive itself is part of the experience, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Uinta Mountains. The camp roads and parking spurs are paved, making accessibility a breeze for RVs, trailers, and passenger vehicles alike.

The accessibility of Washington Lake Campground is excellent, with paved roads leading right to your site. This is a significant convenience for RV campers, as it ensures a smooth and easy setup. The campground is also designed to be inclusive, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot, ensuring that more people can enjoy this incredible natural setting. While the campsites on the lakeshore may be a bit closer together, the majority of the sites are well-spaced, providing a sense of privacy. This balance between accessibility and a secluded feel is a major reason why Washington Lake is so popular.

Washington Lake Campground offers a solid set of amenities that make for a comfortable stay, even without full hookups. The services are focused on providing convenience while maintaining a rustic, outdoor feel.

• Running Water: While there are no individual water hookups at the campsites, running water is available at comfort/water stations located nearby within the campground. This is a crucial amenity for refilling water bottles and for general use.

• Public Restrooms: The campground is equipped with vault toilets, which are frequently praised by visitors for their cleanliness and lack of odor—a notable highlight for a rustic camping experience.

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is outfitted with a picnic table, providing a designated spot for meals and social gatherings.

• On-site Parking: The sites are well-designed with on-site parking spurs, accommodating a variety of vehicles and RVs. The large, paved pads make it easy to set up your camp.

• RV and Tent Camping: The campground offers both designated tent sites and RV camping areas. The RV sites are spacious, with some parking spurs measuring up to 100 feet, which can accommodate even the largest rigs.

• Camping Fee: A fee is required for camping at Washington Lake. This fee contributes to the maintenance of the facilities and the overall preservation of the area, ensuring it remains a beautiful place for all to enjoy.

• Dogs Allowed: This campground is very dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure. Pet owners are expected to keep their dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet and to clean up after them.

The true appeal of Washington Lake Campground lies in its unique features and the activities it facilitates.

• Direct Lake Access: The campground is located directly on the shores of Washington Lake, making it a dream destination for water lovers. The lake is perfect for non-motorized activities such as fishing, paddleboarding, canoeing, and kayaking in its serene waters.

• Fishing and Wildlife Watching: Anglers will find excellent fishing opportunities for trout right from the shore or from a small boat. The area is also rich with wildlife, offering chances to spot local fauna, which adds an extra layer of excitement to any trip.

• Spacious and Thoughtfully Designed Sites: Campers consistently appreciate the size of the campsites, which are "big and pretty well spaced apart," with large cement pads around the fire rings and small stands for camp ovens. This attention to detail makes setting up camp a more pleasant experience.

• Abundant Hiking Opportunities: Washington Lake is a fantastic base camp for hikers. The popular Crystal Lake Trailhead is a short distance away, and numerous other trails lead to scenic alpine lakes and viewpoints, perfect for a short stroll or a full-day trek. Many of these hikes are kid-friendly, making it a great destination for family outings.

• Friendly Camp Hosts: The presence of friendly and helpful camp hosts is a major highlight, as they contribute to a welcoming atmosphere and are available to assist with any questions or needs.

For general information or inquiries, you can use the provided contact details. Please note that for specific information regarding reservations, it is best to check the Recreation.gov website for the most up-to-date availability and booking information.

Address: Wasatch Cache National Forest, FR038, Kamas, UT 84036, USA

Phone: (385) 273-1100

Mobile Phone: +1 385-273-1100

Choosing Washington Lake Campground is an excellent decision for anyone seeking a comprehensive and enjoyable high-altitude camping experience in Utah. What makes it particularly worthwhile is its unique blend of convenience and rugged natural beauty. The well-maintained and spacious sites, complete with paved pads and clean vault toilets, offer a level of comfort that is often not found in such scenic, remote locations. The campground's dog-friendly policy and its appeal to families make it a welcoming destination for all. The most compelling reason to choose this campground is its direct access to Washington Lake and the surrounding Uinta Mountain trail system. This provides a perfect base for a variety of recreational activities, from a peaceful afternoon of paddleboarding to a challenging hike to nearby alpine lakes. For a memorable escape into the heart of the Uintas, Washington Lake Campground stands out as a prime destination that perfectly captures the spirit of outdoor adventure.

Washington Lake Campground

Wasatch Cache National Forest, FR038, Kamas, UT 84036, USA