Fishing and boating enthusiasts will find direct access to Joes Valley Reservoir from this Forest Service campground in the Manti-La Sal National Forest. The reservoir's turquoise waters support fishing and boating, though Steven M. notes "the water is still very cold for swimming." The campground sits adjacent to the Arapeen Trail network, providing immediate access to OHV riding opportunities alongside hiking and biking trails throughout the surrounding mountains.
Sites accommodate RVs up to 52 feet, though reviewers indicate this older campground works better for smaller rigs. Trees provide spacing between most sites, with water spigots located throughout the campground rather than at individual sites. The facility operates on a pack-in, pack-out basis with no trash collection on-site. Sites fill up during peak season, with reservations available through the standard Forest Service system.
The campground serves as a base for exploring camping near Manti-La Sal National Forest, with several other camping areas within a short distance including Upper Joes Valley Campground and additional reservoir access points. Road access remains straightforward year-round, making this location accessible for both tent campers and RV users during the May through September operating season. The $10-18 nightly fee reflects the basic amenities and prime reservoir location that draws repeat visitors to this mountain camping area.
Description
Joes Valley Reservoir Campground is located in a high mountain valley adjacent to and just above Joes Valley Reservoir at an elevation of ~7,000 feet. Juniper, pinyon pine, and sagebrush cover the area, and aspen and pine dot the surrounding hillsides. Several sites provide nice views of the reservoir, and some sites are shaded. The campground contains several single- and double-family campsites, all of which are accessible. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided. Roads and parking spurs are paved. A boat ramp is located within the campground. The reservoir offers good fishing for cutthroat, rainbow trout, and trophy splake. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, water skiing, and canoeing, as well as horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking. The expansive Arapeen OHV Trail System can be accessed just west of the reservoir and has more than 350 miles of designated, well-maintained trails that are suitable for all riding skill levels.
Fee Info
$10 per night for single unit, $18 per night for double unit.
Reservation Info
Parking is available at overlooks and fishing areas around the lake.
Joes Valley is one of the earliest areas on the Wasatch Plateau to open for recreation. However upper elevation roads leading from Joes Valley are unpaved and impassable until late spring or early summer.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundJoes Valley Campground is located in Utah
Directions
From Orangeville, Utah, head northwest on State Route 29 and travel for ~14 miles until you see Joes Valley Reservoir. Continue to follow SR-29 around the reservoir for about 5 more miles to the west side of the reservoir, past the Pavilion. Head southeast on Forest Road 0170 for 0.14 miles, then head east on Forest Road 0167 into the campground area.
Coordinates
39.29586342 N
111.2948354 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 41 min from Provo, UT
- 3 hrs 12 min from Salt Lake City, UT
- 3 hrs 39 min from Ogden, UT
- 3 hrs 50 min from Grand Junction, CO
