Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area

Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is a federal recreation and conservation area on the Green River created by Flaming Gorge Dam, spanning parts of northeastern Utah and southwestern Wyoming. It is centred on a long reservoir backed by steep red canyon walls.

The recreation area is known for boating and trout fishing on Flaming Gorge Reservoir, scenic cliffs and canyon viewpoints, and river recreation on the Green River. The reservoir extends roughly 91 miles upstream from the dam, offering extensive shoreline for launches, fishing and day-use sites.

The impoundment was created by the construction of Flaming Gorge Dam in the mid-20th century to provide hydroelectric power, water storage and flood control; recreational use developed as marinas, campgrounds and access points were established. Management is shared between federal agencies for recreation and resource oversight.

The area straddles the border of northeastern Utah and southwestern Wyoming along the Green River corridor, with the town of Vernal, Utah, among the nearest larger communities serving as a common gateway.

• Reservoir length: The reservoir stretches about 91 miles upstream from the dam, creating long shoreline and numerous boat ramps used for boating and angling.
• Main activities: Popular activities include trout fishing, powerboating, kayaking, hiking and scenic driving along roadside overlooks and byways.

What to See#

• Flaming Gorge Reservoir: The principal impoundment formed by Flaming Gorge Dam on the Green River, extending roughly 91 miles upstream and bordered by steep red sandstone cliffs famous for scenic vistas.
• Red Canyon: A deep, scenic canyon carved by the Green River with cliffside viewpoints, hiking routes and riverside access used for fishing, rafting and photography.
• Flaming Gorge Dam: The concrete dam on the Green River that created the reservoir and supports power generation and water management for the region.

Access from Interstate 80 and US-191 depending on approach; the recreation area spans portions of northeastern Utah and southwestern Wyoming. Nearest towns with visitor services include Vernal (UT) and Rock Springs (WY). Follow signed access roads to visitor centres and marinas.

• For reservoir viewpoints (Flaming Gorge Reservoir), catch sunrise at a lookout for dramatic light on the red canyon walls.
• Boat launch facilities vary by season; confirm boat ramp access and reservoir levels before planning water activities.
• If planning overnight backcountry trips, book permits and campsites with the Bureau of Land Management where required.