Manila, Utah camping spots center on Flaming Gorge Reservoir at 6,000 feet elevation. The area sits within Ashley National Forest, with camping options ranging from late April through mid-October. Water levels fluctuate throughout the season, affecting beach access and boat launch capabilities at waterfront camping areas.
What to do
Geological exploration: Sheep Creek Canyon features unique red rock formations along a scenic loop drive. "This drive is a 2 lane road all paved that goes through some of the most amazing views around. There are lots of trails and lots of caves you can hike to and explore. If you like to explore caves this is a really awesome place," notes a visitor to Carmel Campground.
Waterfront activities: Paddle sports are accessible from shoreline camping areas. A camper at Spring Creek Road Dispersed mentioned, "Nice area where you can get a spot right on the water... You'll also have boats pulling water skiers/boarders by and the occasional fishers or kayakers floating by."
Wildlife viewing: Big Horn Sheep frequently visit campgrounds along the Sheep Creek area. A camper at Red Canyon reported, "We saw Big Horn sheep at the visitor center and later walking along the road adjacent to the campground."
What campers like
Easy lake access: Shallow entry points at many sites make water activities convenient. "Great spot 25 min from Bryce Canyon for a night or two. It was super quiet... Great views, pretty level," wrote a camper about dispersed areas near Red Canyon.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer generous spacing between sites for privacy. "Dispersed beach camping, vault toilets, dumpsters, great views and direct access for swimming, kayaking or paddle boarding. Boats can be put in at marina and beached here," noted a visitor at Stateline Cove Campground.
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. At Navajo Cliffs, a camper described, "Free, dispersed camping in the beautiful Flaming Gorge! The drive in is beautiful, the camping is beautiful...don't miss it. No services, but just a dirt road to get there. Lots of RVs were also using this area!"
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to dispersed sites requires preparation. "The dirt road wasn't too bad, we have a civic and it made it out okay. Everyone is pretty spread out so you'll get some privacy," shared a Navajo Cliffs visitor.
Cell service: Coverage varies by location and carrier. At Spring Creek Road Dispersed, a camper noted, "I had full bars of LTE extended network on Verizon, enough to send texts, make calls, and could load some webpages but it was pretty slow."
Seasonal pests: Insects can be problematic during certain months. A Canyon Rim visitor shared, "We love this campground and usually come at least once a year. Sites 7, 8, 9 are our favorites, and while they don't offer a ton of privacy or shade, the views and access to the cliff edge are unbeatable."
Weather changes: Wind conditions can change rapidly, especially near the lake. "It can get very windy. Great kayaking and paddle boarding. Can camp within 40 yards of the water," mentioned a Stateline Cove visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Campgrounds with play facilities offer entertainment options. At Flaming Gorge-Manila KOA, a visitor mentioned, "Large park for kids. Has a pool but this wasn't open while we stayed. Access to the lake is about 6 miles and access to national park activities close and easy to get to."
Animal encounters: Wildlife viewing opportunities excite children. "Antelope and ground squirrels have made this place home," noted a visitor to Lucerne Campground.
Protected swimming areas: Some spots offer calmer waters for young swimmers. "We were greeted so warmly by Traci, who with her husband runs the campground. As it is off-season, the campground was empty and Traci helped us pick a sunny site. She also suggested a late afternoon scenic drive nearby," shared a Flaming Gorge-Manila KOA guest.
Supply planning: Nearest grocery stores require significant travel. A KOA visitor advised, "We enjoyed visiting the area. It's great for boating, kayaking, paddle boarding and hiking. There's a couple of restaurants in town and a gas station or two so pack what you need. The closest grocery store is 50 mins away."
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Plan waste management in advance. A Manila KOA visitor noted, "They charge $15 to dump if boondocking nearby. Water is .40c/gallon. They do close middle of Oct for the winter."
Weather protection: Position RVs to minimize wind exposure. "Super clean and well maintained. Good wifi," reported another KOA camper.
Off-season availability: Shoulder seasons offer less crowded experiences. "We are here at the end of Sept/early Oct in a 35 ft 5th wheel. We have this place pretty much to ourselves. The campground closed mid Sept. During that time it is $21 per night/$10.50 with senior pass. Once it closes it basically becomes boondocking sites and there is no charge," shared a visitor at Stateline Cove.
Site selection: Check accessibility before committing to remote areas. "The road coming in has lots of cows and deer so be careful! Take 319 to get to this area, not 341, it's now fenced off," advised a visitor at Jug Hollow Road Dispersed Camp.
