Pugmire Pocket Campground

For us Utah locals, who are spoiled with an abundance of diverse and spectacular landscapes, discovering hidden gems for outdoor adventure is always a thrill. Pugmire Pocket Campground, nestled in the serene area of Dutch John, UT, offers just such an experience. It’s a compelling choice for those who crave a more rustic and less crowded camping environment, especially if your plans include exploring the world-renowned Green River. Far from a bustling resort-style campground, Pugmire Pocket embraces primitive camping while still providing the significant advantage of vehicle access, making it a convenient launchpad for memorable river trips or a peaceful retreat for simply unwinding amidst nature.

The area surrounding Dutch John is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly known for the Green River's "A" and "B" sections, celebrated for their exceptional fly fishing and breathtaking canyon scenery. The Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, with its dramatic red cliffs and expansive reservoir, provides a stunning backdrop for all kinds of water-based activities. Pugmire Pocket Campground, as described by those who've experienced its quiet charm, is an ideal meeting point for longer river runs or a strategic put-in point for extending your journey downstream towards legendary spots like the Gates of Lodore. It’s a place where you'll rarely encounter large crowds, ensuring plenty of good spots to pitch a tent and enjoy a campfire under Utah's starry skies. This article will provide a comprehensive look at Pugmire Pocket Campground's location, accessibility, services, unique features, contact information, and ultimately, why it’s a perfectly suitable destination for us, the outdoor-loving residents of Utah.

Pugmire Pocket Campground is located near Dutch John, UT 84023, USA. This places it within the broader Green River corridor, part of the Ashley National Forest and the expansive Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area in eastern Utah, very close to the Wyoming border. It is situated on the "B" section of the Green River, a stretch known for its float-in campsites.

For Utah locals, reaching Pugmire Pocket Campground involves a scenic drive. From Salt Lake City, the journey typically takes around 4 to 4.5 hours, generally heading east on US-40 towards Vernal, and then north on UT-191 or other state routes towards Dutch John. If you're coming from Vernal, Dutch John is approximately 40 miles north. The specific access to Pugmire Pocket is via Forest Service roads that lead to the Green River. While the main highways are paved and well-maintained, the roads leading directly to Pugmire Pocket are unpaved. However, a key advantage highlighted by visitors is that it offers "vehicle access," distinguishing it from some other Green River campsites that are strictly boat-in or hike-in. This means you can drive to your campsite, which is a significant convenience for bringing in gear. It’s advisable to check road conditions with the Ashley National Forest or local Bureau of Land Management (BLM) office, especially during wet weather, as unpaved roads can become challenging. The campground operates seasonally, typically from late spring through early fall, depending on weather and snowmelt.

Pugmire Pocket Campground provides a primitive camping experience, focusing on the essentials for an authentic outdoor stay, while still offering the convenience of vehicle access. Based on available public information and customer reviews, here are the general services and amenities you can expect:

• Campsites: The campground offers designated areas for pitching tents. Visitors note there are "plenty of good spots to pitch a tent," indicating reasonably flat areas suitable for setting up camp.

• Firepits: Pre-existing firepits are available at the campsites, allowing for campfires (adhering to any current fire restrictions) for cooking, warmth, and ambiance.

• Vehicle Access: A significant advantage, allowing campers to drive directly to their site, which is not common for all Green River campsites. This makes it easier to transport gear for a longer stay or a multi-day river trip.

• Portable Toilet Blinds: While not full restrooms, river camps along the Green River, including Pugmire Pocket, are typically equipped with blinds for portable toilets, encouraging proper waste management in the wilderness.

• Picnic Tables: It's common for river campsites in this area to include picnic tables, providing a designated surface for meal preparation and dining.

• No Potable Water: It's crucial to note that potable water is generally NOT available at Pugmire Pocket. Campers must bring all their own drinking water, or have means to filter/purify river water.

• First-Come, First-Served: Like many primitive campgrounds, Pugmire Pocket operates on a first-come, first-served basis. This means no reservations are typically taken, emphasizing the need for early arrival, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.

• Pack In, Pack Out: Adherence to "Leave No Trace" principles is essential. Campers are expected to pack out all trash and waste, leaving no trace of their visit.

Pugmire Pocket Campground, while primitive, offers several compelling features that make it an attractive destination for Utah locals and outdoor enthusiasts:

• Strategic Green River Access: A major highlight is its role as a "put-in" point for longer Green River float trips, particularly for those looking to extend beyond the popular Little Hole section. It's also an excellent starting point for those aiming to run to the "Gates of Lodore" without beginning further upstream, offering a different river mileage option.

• Remote, Uncrowded Atmosphere: Visitors consistently note that you "never see too many people" at Pugmire Pocket. This provides a genuine sense of solitude and tranquility, appealing to those seeking an escape from busier campgrounds.

• Vehicle Accessible Primitive Camping: The combination of primitive camping (minimal amenities) with vehicle access is a unique advantage. It allows for a rustic experience without the logistical challenges of a boat-in only or hike-in only site.

• Exceptional Fishing Opportunities: The Green River is globally recognized for its world-class fly fishing, particularly for trout. Camping at Pugmire Pocket places anglers directly on the river, providing unparalleled access to prime fishing spots.

• Stunning Scenery: The campground is nestled within the beautiful Green River corridor, surrounded by the high desert landscape and the dramatic geological formations of the Flaming Gorge area. Expect picturesque views and opportunities for photography.

• Wildlife Viewing: The riparian and desert environment supports a variety of wildlife, including diverse bird species, deer, and other animals, offering good opportunities for observation.

• Flexibility for River Trips: Its location makes it a versatile option for planning customized Green River itineraries, whether for a shorter overnight stay or as a crucial stop on a multi-day float.

For inquiries regarding Pugmire Pocket Campground in Dutch John, UT, which falls under the management of the Ashley National Forest and/or the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Green River field office, you can use the following information. Please note that for primitive, first-come, first-served sites like Pugmire Pocket, direct phone reservations are typically not an option.

Address: Dutch John, UT 84023, USA (Specific location along the Green River 'B' section, accessible via Forest Service roads).

Phone Numbers:

• For general inquiries about the Ashley National Forest campgrounds in the Flaming Gorge area, you might contact the Flaming Gorge Ranger District at (435) 784-3445.
• For information specifically related to Green River float-in campsites and conditions, contacting the BLM Vernal Field Office at (435) 781-4400 may be helpful.
• A general number often associated with Green River flow information is (435) 885-3106.

For us Utah locals, Pugmire Pocket Campground offers a refreshingly authentic and accessible wilderness experience that perfectly aligns with our state's adventurous spirit. Unlike many highly developed campgrounds, Pugmire Pocket's primitive nature means fewer crowds and a deeper connection to the stunning natural environment of the Green River corridor. This is a significant draw for those of us who seek genuine solitude and a true escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Its key advantage – vehicle access coupled with its primitive setting – makes it incredibly convenient for weekend warriors and seasoned adventurers alike. Whether you're planning a multi-day float trip down the world-renowned Green River, aiming to catch some trophy trout, or simply looking for a quiet spot to pitch a tent and enjoy the desert stars, Pugmire Pocket delivers. It provides a unique flexibility for customizing your river adventures, allowing for longer runs or serving as a strategic starting point for epic journeys. This campground embodies the raw beauty and quiet majesty that define so much of Utah's outdoor landscape. For those of us who cherish our state's wild places and prefer our camping experiences to be untamed yet easily reachable, Pugmire Pocket Campground is an invaluable local treasure, offering unforgettable memories right in our own backyard.