John Jarvie Historic Site

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

Home
Bureau of Land Management
Utah
John Jarvie Historic Site

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is a government agency that manages public land all over the country, preserving and protecting its natural resources and beauty. Dispersed, or primitive, camping is permitted in many of these BLM-protected areas as long as certain rules are followed. If you are in northeastern Utah and do a search for "BLM camping near me," you will find the John Jarvie Historic Site. Located in the northeastern corner of Utah, this unique area was once used to shelter trappers and mountain men during the early 19th century. Later, the site would be used as an outlaw hideout for famous figures such as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Matt Warner, and several others.

In addition to checking out the fascinating attraction of the historic site, those who visit the area have a variety of recreational opportunities. There are fishing and boating opportunities on the nearby Green River, various hiking trails, several nearby wildlife refuges and plenty of breathtaking desert scenery. The nearest national parks are Grand Teton National Park, which is in Wyoming four and a half hours northwest of the John Jarvie Historic Ranch, and Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado four hours and 37 minutes to the southeast.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Canyon Rim Trail

The Canyon Rim Trail, an hour southwest of the John Jarvie Historic Ranch, is a beautiful scenic trail through the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. The moderately difficult loop trail takes hikers along a canyon rim overlooking the majestic Green River. The views and surrounding nature are unforgettable, and there's a great chance of spotting some local wildlife. In addition to hiking, the loop route is a nice spot for a brisk run as well. Dogs are permitted on the trail but must remain leashed.

Length: 4.6 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Little Hole Trail

Little Hole Trail is also found near the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area and offers a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. Located along the Green River, the trail is just as popular for fishing and paddleboating as it is for hiking. The out-and-back trail is extremely long, so you'll want to allot most of a day if you intend to traverse the whole thing. Remember to bring your recreation pass as you'll need it to park at the trailhead. The best time to visit Little Hole Trail is between March and November.

Length: 14 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Fishing & Boating

One of the most highly regarded destinations for angling in the area is on the Green River just below the Flaming Gorge Dam. The river is considered to be one of the best fly-fishing spots in the country, inhabited by a huge population of rainbow and cutthroat trout. There are also several boat launches located along the river, and many visitors head out on the water in their raft, kayak, or canoe. For the most part, the river features gentle waters that are perfect for a relaxing day of floating or paddling.

Climbing

One area to go rock-climbing near the John Jarvie Historic Site is the Flaming Gorge Dam Overlook, which features some great bouldering and sport climbing. The formations in the area, which is 45 minutes northwest of the John Jarvie Historic Ranch, are quartzitic sandstone, and anyone who climbs them will be treated to impressive views of the landscape. Another area with climbing opportunities is Dinosaur National Monument, which is in Colorado 42 minutes southeast of the John Jarvie Historic Ranch. However, the sandstone is a bit soft and loose, so it's only suitable for skilled, experienced climbers.

Wildlife Viewing

One excellent destination for wildlife observation is Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge, which a wide variety of unique species call their home. The Green River flows right through the refuge, which is located in Colorado 18 minutes southeast of the John Jarvie Historic Ranch, and if you're exploring near its waters, you'll want to stay on the lookout for moose, river otter, deer, and elk. In the drier sections of the area, you'll have the chance to spot bighorn sheep and pronghorn. You may want to look up now and then as you may be lucky enough to glimpse a golden eagle or peregrine falcon.

Picnicking

If you're interested in enjoying a picnic at a unique historic location, why not have your lunch right at the John Jarvie Historic Site? You can spend a couple of hours exploring the beautiful on-site ranch and then take a seat to eat and rest while you look over the gorgeous Green River. If you bring a picnic blanket, there should be plenty of suitable areas on the banks of the river to lay it out and relax.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

BLM RV camping isn't for everyone, so for anyone hoping to access RV hookups and modern amenities, one good place to try is Pine Forest RV Park, an hour west of the John Jarvie Historic Ranch. There are 57 large, full hookup RV sites with 30- or 50-amp power, picnic tables, fire pits, and free Wi-Fi. The park also offers a large bathroom/shower house and laundry facilities. At Fossil Valley RV Park, which is an hour and 46 minutes southwest of the John Jarvie Historic Ranch, there are 60 RV sites with full hookups, level gravel parking spaces, and shade trees.

Free Camping

There are two well-kept Bureau of Land Management Campgrounds within minutes of the John Jarvie Historic Site. Indian Crossing Campground features 20 individual campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. On the other side of the river, Bridge Hollow Campground provides 10 individual sites and one group site.

RV Rentals Near John Jarvie Historic Site Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your John Jarvie Historic Site BLM trip

If you're planning a visit to the John Jarvie Historic Site, make sure that you've planned ahead for overnight camping. All the nearby campgrounds are first-come, first-served, and if you're visiting on a weekend during the peak season, several of them may be at capacity. If you intend to stay at one of the Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, you'd be wise to have a backup plan.

You should also know that none of the nearby camping areas offer many amenities or conveniences, and you'll likely need to provide your own food and water. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

When visiting the John Jarvie Historic Site, please respect the history of the area, and refrain from touching or removing any artifacts that you come across. If you choose to partake in Bureau of Land Management free camping in the area, make sure you're setting up camp on durable land. Keep your campfires small and contained to fire pits and rings. You will likely encounter other visitors and/or wildlife during your visit. Please be courteous of your fellow humans, and observe the wildlife only from a distance. Finally, avoid leaving any garbage or waste around the land even if that means taking it with you when you depart.

John Jarvie Historic Site Location

To reach the John Jarvie Historic Site from Vernal, Utah, travel north on Highway 191 for approximately 55 miles. When you reach the Utah-Wyoming border, turn east on Clay Basin Road, and follow it for about 22 miles. After you descend into Browns Park, turn right onto Red Creek Road. Continue for about two miles and you'll reach the BLM site.

Ready to visit John Jarvie Historic Site? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night, where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice, soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.