Sunny Cove Fire triggers campground evacuation near Flaming Gorge Reservoir

Sunny Cove Fire Spurs Evacuation of Mustang Campground At Flaming Gorge Reservoir. Photo: Ashley National Forest

UPDATE (July 24): The Sunny Cove Fire is now 85 acres in size and 95% contained. The Mustang Ridge Campground and boat ramp are now open for public use.

UPDATE (July 18) : The Sunny Cove Fire has Grown to 100 acres and is still at 0% contained. Crews are working with 1 dozer to put in fire line.

DUTCH JOHN, Utah – The Sunny Cove Fire was identified at 3:26 p.m. this afternoon, and is currently estimated at 5 acres in size with 0% containment.

A release from The Ashley National Forest states that the fire was caused by lightning. The Mustang Ridge Campground at Flaming Gorge Reservoir with about 70-80 trailers, has been evacuated for public safety and campers are gathering in Dutch John Utah at the Church and Community Center parking lots.

Currently, there are two helicopters, 3 engines, and two hand crews assigned to the fire.

The U.S. Forest Service website describes the Mustang Ridge Campground as being located on a high desert bluff above beautiful Flaming Gorge Reservoir. The reservoir can be accessed within a half-mile of the campground. The campground is situated among a dense pinyon pine and juniper forest dotted with sagebrush.

#SunnyCoveFire near Flaming Gorge in Daggett County. Resources responding and on scene. Hot and drier conditions contribute to increased fire behavior. #FireSense is so important as temperatures get hotter and our vegetation dries out. #FFSLKW https://t.co/7NEUuLIZnT

— Utah Fire Info (@UtahWildfire) July 18, 2023