Soaking in geothermal water after a hike through Uinta National Forest is the main draw at Fifth Water Hot Springs, a free dispersed camping area reached by a roughly two-mile trail along a creek in Mapleton, Utah. The route passes multiple camping spots on the second half of the trail, ranging from small sites for couples to larger clearings that can accommodate groups, all positioned close to the water. A waterfall marks the end of the trail near the hot springs themselves.
Campers have noted that conditions vary depending on which trailhead you use. Fire activity has previously closed the main trailhead, pushing some visitors to an alternate entry point where dispersed camping is permitted in areas marked by fire rings. One reviewer found a site near the trailhead parking, though noted uneven ground and limited flat tent space as real constraints. The Diamond Fork Road Dispersed campground in Uinta NF provides another option in the same drainage for those who want a backup plan.
The hot springs themselves draw visitors year-round, though cooler months tend to thin the crowds. Nearby Dry Canyon and Sawmill Hollow give campers additional dispersed sites in the area if the Fifth Water spots are taken. Dogs are welcome on the trail and at camp. Check current trailhead status with the US Forest Service before heading out, as closures due to fire activity have affected access in the past.
Description
Backpacking 4.7 miles on lower trail, 4.6 miles on upper trail
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsFifth Water Hot Springs Backpacking Site is located in Utah near Mapleton
Coordinates
40.083185708414206 N
111.31880370302498 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Fifth Water Hot Springs Backpacking Site needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 21 min from Provo, UT
- 1 hr 52 min from Salt Lake City, UT
- 2 hrs 20 min from Ogden, UT
- 3 hrs 4 min from Logan, UT














