Mustang Ridge ~ Flaming Gorge

Flickr album link: Mustang Ridge

The Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is a popular place to be during the warm weather seasons and the main attraction is the large reservoir lake on the Green River. Flaming Gorge itself is also a major tourism draw and that end of the park extends west into the Wyoming side of the state line. The wide branching arm of the middle section of the lake also extends north and this large body of water definitely is a boater's paradise. The east side of the Flaming Gorge Recreation Area is where the shoreline meanders over level ground instead butting up against towering red rock canyon walls, so the lake water is easy to access in this end of the park. The Ashley National Forest Service manages this entire recreation area and the surrounding wilderness, so their website is the best resource for seeking information about camping and the adventurous activities in this entire region. The Ashley National Forest website is also where campsite reservations are accepted, which is good to keep in mind if setting up a basecamp in a developed campground is in the vacation plans.

Mustang Ridge is by far the busiest campground on the east end of Flaming Gorge and it is easy to access, since the roads are paved. Mustang Ridge actually is a high ground overlook where the unobstructed views stretch out to the horizon, while looking down below will reveal secluded swimming coves that are also great fishing spots. Next to the actual ridge is where the campground is located in a deep forest clearing. This campground features basic facilities, showers, drinking water and fairly spacious RV camper/trailer pads, while the main boat launch and group pavilions are right next door.

The Mustang Ridge boat launch is where watercraft rental and excursion companies are most active, which is a nice convenience for those who suddenly get the urge to explore these waters. The boat launch cove is also a large summertime swimming hole that attracts big crowds, so there is usually a beach party atmosphere. Fun and excitement is what this lakeside spot is all about, so this area does attract a lot of weekend warriors. The Mustang Ridge campground is a place where visitors tend to spend their entire summer vacation and many of the RV campers are there for the maximum length stay. Mustang Ridge offers a true lakeside outdoor recreation area experience, so it is easy to see why people are in no hurry to leave and the chances of finding a walk-in campsite are slim during the peak season. For this reason, it is best to make reservations well ahead of time so you can join in on the family oriented fun in the sun!