Newly opened McCoy Flats Campground, about 7 miles southwest of Vernal, Utah, combines low overnight rates with access to mountain bike trails. According to the Bureau of Land Management’s Sept. 3 opening announcement, standard sites cost $10 per night and group sites cost $35. Ten sites are also available for larger RVs.
The first thing travelers need to understand is the booking system. This is a first-come, first-served campground using Scan and Pay: visitors arrive, check for an open site, and pay on-site. The presence of a facility page on Recreation.gov does not mean travelers can secure a preferred site from home in advance.
Compare Length Limits for Each Large-RV Site
The Recreation.gov listing for Site 3 gives a maximum RV length of 45 feet and a maximum trailer length of 40 feet. It also identifies the site as a standard non-electric site with no water hookup. Those figures should not be treated as universal limits for every site at the campground; travelers need to match their rig type and length to the site they intend to use upon arrival.
BLM says four-wheel drive is not required because the access route is primarily paved or graded dirt road. That does not mean road conditions remain the same at all times, including after rain. Before leaving Vernal, travelers should check local weather and road conditions, then proceed slowly over the final access segment.
Each site has a picnic table and fire ring, and some have shade shelters. The facility information also lists vault toilets and a bike repair area with tools. Travelers using Site 3, which has neither electricity nor water, should arrive with the water and power they need.
Connect 35 Miles of Trails to the Camping Itinerary
One advantage of this campground is access to McCoy Flats’ connected network of 35 miles of mountain bike trails without having to move the vehicle again. BLM’s trail information describes both smoother flowing sections and technical rocky terrain. Routes should be selected based on the group’s ability and the time needed to return, rather than total mileage alone.
Before departing, save the official facility page and site details below, and prepare an alternative place to stay in case no sites are open on arrival. The low rates are a definite advantage, but availability depends on arrival order. Checking shade, hookups, and equipment length before paying will help ensure the campground fits the trip.
Photo: BLM / Original photo page (Public Domain, no copyright claimed for original government works)
Sources: BLM opening announcement · Recreation.gov facility information · Site 3 equipment limits · BLM trail information