About Shady Dell Campground
Overview Shady Dell Campground is nestled in the curves of the Provo River. The campground is located on the beautiful Mirror Lake Scenic Byway in the Uinta Mountains of northeastern Utah at an elevation of 8,200 feet. The Uintas are known for their abundant recreational opportunities and scenic beauty. Recreation The Lower Provo River can easily be accessed from the campground and offers good trout fishing. Soapstone Basin is nearby, with miles of exciting off-road vehicle trails for riders of all skill levels. Numerous additional hiking, biking and horseback riding trails crisscross this beautiful region. Facilities This campground has 19 single and 1 double campsites. Each site offers a picnic table and fire ring. Vault restroom facilities are available throughout the campground. Natural Features The campground is situated among a dense forest of pine, fir and aspen trees, which provide ample shade and beautiful fall color. Thickets of willow line the Lower Provo River, which flows alongside the campground. Nearby Attractions Mirror Lake Scenic Byway parallels the Lower Provo River as it snakes across a portion of the Uinta Mountains, leading to numerous high alpine lakes and streams, countless trails, breathtaking scenic viewpoints and various campgrounds. Fishing, canoeing, hiking, backpacking, horseback riding and biking are popular activities. The High Uintas Wilderness can be accessed from several trails along the byway. Charges & Cancellations Reservation Cancellations & Changes Cancelling a Reservation: Customers may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. Depending on when you cancel in relation to your arrival day, it may be considered a late cancellation (see below). Changing an Existing Reservation: When changes are made prior to the cut-off window: If a customer wants to switch dates that are entirely outside of the original reservation d
How to Get There
In Kamas, UT, at the intersection of State Rt. 32 (Main St.) and State Rt. 150 (Center St.), take Rt. 150 (Mirror Lake Scenic Byway) east 17 miles to the campground sign. Turn right at the sign into the campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Shady Dell Campground
Heading to Shady Dell Campground? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Shady Dell Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Shady Dell Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10048096) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Shady Dell Campground?
In Kamas, UT, at the intersection of State Rt. 32 (Main St.) and State Rt. 150 (Center St.), take Rt. 150 (Mirror Lake Scenic Byway) east 17 miles to the campground sign. Turn right at the sign into the campground.
How do I contact Shady Dell Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: 385-273-1100.
References & Official Resources
