White River Recreation Area
RV Guide
Introduction
The White River Recreation Area is located in eastern Utah and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management. It falls within the Uintah and Ouray Reservation Area. The White River Recreation Area isn't too far from the Colorado border, making it easy for visitors from all over to access. This beautiful area is located at an elevation of just over 5,000 feet. There are multiple rivers in the area that make this the perfect spot to enjoy a plethora of water activities. Whether you're looking for an adventurous day of white water rafting or you prefer a calm kayaking session, the White River Recreation Area offers both!
Along with water activities, the White River Recreation Area also offers hiking, fishing, mountain biking, and more. There are plenty of animals to see during your stay there. You might get to see a black bear, elk, or a bighorn sheep. Many people who visit the White River Recreation Area enjoy staying at one of the nearby campgrounds. They offer beautiful surroundings and the perfect spaces to rest your head after an exhausting day exploring the recreation area. If you're considering a trip to Utah or Colorado, this is a must-see! It's the perfect getaway for the whole family.
RV Rentals in White River Recreation Area
Transportation
Driving
The White River Recreation Area is less than 20 miles from the Colorado border. It is located within the Uintah and Ouray Reservation but is its own separate recreation area. Hidden between the towns of Ouray and Bonanza, the White River Recreation Area isn't too hard to access. There are a few curvy roads in the area that might pose an issue for those driving larger vehicles such ascamper vans or RVs. Luckily, there are multiple ways one can enter the White River Recreation Area.
The roads leading to the area are paved and well maintained. Because of the elevation and remote location, it may be best to print off a physical set of directions just in case you lose cell phone reception during your drive there. It also isn't a bad idea to check for road closures or detours to save you time on the road. Once you get inside the White River Recreation Area, you can expect dirt paths and little to no roadways. Many people get around on foot, off-highway vehicle, or watercraft on the White River. On the river, there are many different access points and places to stop.
Parking
Public Transportation
Campgrounds and parking in White River Recreation Area
Campsites in White River Recreation Area
Reservations camping
Split Mountain Campground
Split Mountain Campground is a great place to rest your head when visiting the White River Recreation Area. This is a group camp crowd that has four group sites available to the public. Each of these sites can host tent or RV campers. In order to camp here, you must have between eight and 25 people in your camp group. There is also a limit of six vehicles per campsite. From the beginning of spring until the end of October there is running water and flush toilets available.
While you can make a reservation for the peak season of April through October, the campsites are first-come, first-served from the end of October until the beginning of April. Each campsite has a picnic table and a campfire ring with a grill. This campground is right on Green River and provides easy access to multiple hiking trails. If you're looking for an easy to access place to rest during your visit to the White River Recreation Area, Split Mountain Campground is a great option.
First-come first-served
Green River Campground
Green River Campground is another beautiful stay while visiting the White River Recreation Area. There you will find 80 campsites for you to choose from. Each campsite can accommodate both RV and tent campers. There are three loops in the Green River Campground. Campsites in loops A and C are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Campsites in Loop be are available by reservation. It's important to note that reservations can only be purchased with a credit or debit card.
For those camping in the first-come, first-served area, there is a self-pay station that accepts cash or checks. This campground is open from the beginning of spring until the end of fall. They offer running water, flush toilets, grills, campfires, trash receptacles, and more. RV campers may like to know that there are no hookups available. Many people enjoy camping at Green River Campground while visiting the White River Recreation Area because it is right next to Green River, allowing visitors to take part in water activities.
Avintaquin Campground
Avintaquin Campground hosts group, RV, and tent travelers. There is a group campsite that can hold up to 50 people that has several picnic tables and other great amenities. There are 17 single sites in total, all of which have picnic tables, a fire ring, and a utility table. Avintaquin Campground is available on a first-come, first-served basis. When it comes to modern amenities, there are vault toilets and trash cans available for visitors.
It's important to note that there is no running water, no pets allowed, and no RV hookups available. Camping here you'll be surrounded by tall Douglas fir trees and plenty of wildlife such as elk and mule deer. If you're looking for something to do during the day while staying here, many visitors love to explore the Reservation Ridge Scenic Backway. This is a beautiful place to rest your head when visiting the White River Recreation Area.
Seasonal activities in White River Recreation Area
In-Season
Water Activities
Because the White River Recreation Area is surrounded by multiple rivers, water activities are incredibly popular. Many people enjoy an adventurous day of white water rafting. In the area, you will find multiple places to rent equipment to have a great time out on the water.
Because the rivers move quite quickly, it is not advised to go swimming in the area. It's also important that everyone you're with wears a life jacket for safety purposes.
Hiking
The White River Recreation Area is the perfect place in Utah to get in an amazing hike. Not only are the views amazing, but there is so much land to explore. The terrain is relatively moderate, depending on which part of the White River Recreation Area you're in. There are certain areas where it gets a bit more intense if you're looking for a strenuous hike. Pack yourself a pair of high-quality hiking boots and hit the trails!
Fishing
Fishing is one of the most popular activities for those visiting the White River Recreation Area. Utah is best known for a large amount of trout swimming around in its rivers. Luckily, the White River Recreation Area is near both the White River and the Green River.
It is important that you have the necessary permits and licenses to fish in Utah before you cast your reel. Catch yourself a couple of trout, start a campfire, and you've got yourself a free meal!
Off-Season
Nature Viewing
Utah is the perfect state to get a bit of wildlife and nature viewing. On your visit to the White River Recreation Area, you may see a variety of animals. There are large mammals such as elk, moose, American black bear, bighorn sheep, and more. You also might spot a desert tortoise or a variety of birds. Make sure to pack a pair of binoculars to increase your chances of seeing all the critters roaming around.
Scenic Driving
An off-season activity that allows you to see the White River Recreation Area while relaxing is by taking a scenic drive. The roads around the White River Recreation Area offer a unique view of the land. The roads are well maintained and paved. You won't have to worry about any rough weather in the area either. If you're wanting a more laid back activity, this can be fun for the whole family. Try to spot animals during the drive!
Picnicking
Picnicking is a popular activity for those visiting the White River Recreation Area. Nothing beats a delicious meal right in the heart of nature. While there aren't designated picnic areas available, you are more than welcome to park the RV or lay down a blanket.
Please respect the No Trace Left Behind Act and clean up after yourself. This is a great way to fuel up before a long day of exploring the White River Recreation Area
