Fifth Water Hot Springs Backpacking Site

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

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.

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Map & DirectionsFifth Water Hot Springs Backpacking Site is located in Utah near Mapleton

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

40.083185708414206 N
111.31880370302498 W

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Connectivity

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Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry 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.

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General Info

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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Fifth Water Hot Springs Backpacking Site

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4 Reviews

Reviewed Nov. 12, 2020

Hard to get into the springs

The springs are a bit of a hike but they are a blast once you get there. They are very warm and a lot of fun! I went at night with my wife and it was a great date spot! We had the part we went to for ourselves.

  • Review photo of Fifth Water Hot Springs Backpacking Site by Kyler N., November 12, 2020
  • Review photo of Fifth Water Hot Springs Backpacking Site by Kyler N., November 12, 2020
  • Review photo of Fifth Water Hot Springs Backpacking Site by Kyler N., November 12, 2020
Reviewed Oct. 14, 2019

Dispersed camping at Fifth Water Hot Springs Trailhead

We camped at this trailhead while attempting to hike to the Fifth Water Hot Springs. Due to fire activity, the original trailhead was closed so we camped at the "back way" trailhead. There were signs indicating that dispersed camping was allowed in areas designated by a fire ring. Found one near the trailhead parking. Not many flat places for a tent and there was cow manure all over the ground, so not many options for places to put our tent. The "fire-pit" was also filled in with rocks, thinking this may have been related to the nearby forest fires. May have better luck at the other trailhead in the future.

Month of VisitOctober
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  • Review photo of Fifth Water Hot Springs Backpacking Site by Isabelle K., October 14, 2019
  • Review photo of Fifth Water Hot Springs Backpacking Site by Isabelle K., October 14, 2019
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Reviewed Jun. 2, 2019

Hot sprangs

This hike has many camping spots on the second half of the trail right along the creek, some small some larger for group sites. To make it all worth the while, there’s a huge waterfall at the end of the 2 mile hike along with awesome natural hot springs!

  • Review photo of Fifth Water Hot Springs Backpacking Site by Shariah T., June 2, 2019
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  • Review photo of Fifth Water Hot Springs Backpacking Site by Shariah T., June 2, 2019
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Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are located near Fifth Water Hot Springs?

While there are no established campgrounds immediately at Fifth Water Hot Springs, dispersed camping is permitted in designated areas along the trail marked by fire rings. These natural camping spots are located primarily along the second half of the trail near the creek. For those seeking more developed facilities, check with the Diamond Fork area and surrounding Spanish Fork Canyon for additional camping options. Always verify current regulations before your trip, as fire restrictions may affect camping availability.

Is camping allowed at Fifth Water Hot Springs in Utah?

Yes, camping is allowed along the trail to Fifth Water Hot Springs. There are numerous dispersed camping spots available during the second half of the trail that follows alongside the creek. These sites vary in size, with some smaller spots for individual campers and larger areas suitable for groups. The camping experience is enhanced by the proximity to both the creek and the hot springs, which are located approximately 2 miles along the trail.

Where does the Fifth Water Hot Springs trail begin and can you camp at the trailhead?

The Fifth Water Hot Springs trail typically begins at the Diamond Fork trailhead, though an alternative "back way" trailhead exists when the main access is closed due to conditions like fire activity. Camping is allowed at the trailhead area, particularly at the alternative access point, where dispersed camping is permitted in spots designated by fire rings. When planning your trip, be prepared for potential trail closures that might require using the alternate trailhead, and always follow posted camping regulations.