Yankee Meadows
Lovely Uncrowded Creekside Campround
As native Las Vegans, we are desperate to find summer respite in higher altitudes in Southern Utah, which is barely 3 hours away with many options within minutes of I-15. My friend Paul used to camp in a secluded clearing 1/4 mile south of Yankee Meadows Reservoir for years and said it was his favorite secret camping spot for years until I got him drunk and demanded that he show me this fabled spot. When we went, the tiny meadow was full of cow patties from free range cattle, which kind of killed my visual hard on for this spot.
On the plus side, the trout fishing on the beautiful, non-motorized reservoir was great and on that trip I discovered another, more spectacular and less cow-shitty camping area north of the reservoir in a large meadow among a stand of pine trees. The lack of pit toilets (no big loss), and picnic tables is just inconvenient enough to ward off the fair-weather camping fans, which leaves the area much quieter and exclusive feeling. The best part is the small rushing stream that passes through the campground and serenades you to sleep if your tent is close enough. I highly recommend camping in the spring when the meadow is carpeted with wildflowers, however this high altitude area had perfect weather all summer. It is also relatively close to the ski area, Brian Head, which is a great place to hike, mountain bike, or rent an ATV/ Razer.
Please don't tell too many people about YMR; one of my top 10 favorite camping spots on earth...
Here is a poem I penned about this spot:
Welcome, Autumn! Cool September mornings are welcomed in the Mojave like hugs from grandchildren not seen for two consecutive Christmases. The frenetic pace, the hustle of the long summer darting around on hot pavement like harried ants carrying heavy cargo is mercifully drawing to an end. A Fall pilgrimage to Lee Canyon or Yankee Meadows to witness the flittering aspen groves afire with colors and spectacle that rival any fireworks show on the Vegas Strip. Our bodies, which have not felt the sensation of chill for half a year begin to rest and to heal and like the sun-scorched and wilted plants in the yard, Autumn brings with it new growth, re-found vigor and Agency that can only be found with fresh eyes. Autumn is the eternal font of Gratitude. Welcome back, Friend!
Here's another great review:
https://landcruisingadventure.blogspot.com/2016/06/camping-near-yankee-meadows-campground.html?m=1










