Anglers and paddlers will find Gates Lake Dispersed positioned along the shoreline within Fishlake National Forest, offering free camping with basic toilet facilities. The Forest Service manages this drive-in site, though campers should prepare for rough access roads leading to the forested terrain around the lake.
The dispersed nature means no designated sites or hookups, allowing flexibility in choosing spots among the trees near the water. Rough road conditions require careful navigation, particularly for larger RVs or low-clearance vehicles. For additional options in the region, consider camping near Fishlake National Forest for more developed facilities or similar lakeside settings.
Description
Gates Lake dispersed recreation site is located next to Gates Lake reservoir at an elevation of nearly 9,800 feet and is shaded by aspen and conifer trees. Facilities include a vault restroom and information kiosk. Gates Lake reservoir is available for fishing. The road to Gates Lake (FR040) can be rough and is not recommended for trailers. There is also 50" ATV riding on designated routes, camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Please pack-out all you pack-in. Camping stay limit is 16 days.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingGates Lake Dispersed is located in Utah
Directions
Gates Lake is located about 29 miles southeast of Salina Utah. In Salina at the junction of Main Street and State Street, head south on State Street for approximately 2 miles until you reach I-70. Turn left (east) onto I-70 east-bound from Salina, for approximately 6.5 miles. Exit I-70 at Gooseberry Road (Exit 63), and then turn right (south) on the paved Gooseberry Road #640 for 18.4 miles. Turn right on FR040 for 2.4 miles.
Coordinates
38.76618398 N
111.68594136 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage
AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Toilets
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 Gates Lake Dispersed needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 53 min from Provo, UT
- 3 hrs 24 min from Salt Lake City, UT
- 3 hrs 36 min from St. George, UT
- 3 hrs 44 min from Grand Junction, CO
