The Cove area of Utah sits at approximately 5,400 feet elevation with significant elevation changes in surrounding mountains, creating diverse camping climates from high desert to alpine zones. Temperatures in summer typically range from 50-90°F with cool evenings even during peak season. Winter camping requires preparation for below-freezing temperatures and possible snow at higher elevations.
What to do
Soak in geothermal springs: At Mystic Hot Springs in nearby Monroe, visitors can experience unique soaking in vintage bathtubs fed by natural hot springs. "Be sure to reserve one of the buses online soak in the hot springs and enjoy one of the greatest most peaceful relaxing spots I have found," notes Frederick S., who gave the unique glamping experience five stars.
Explore petroglyphs: The Castle Rock Campground provides access to hundreds of Native American rock art panels. According to Mikki S., "Lots of neat trails and hikes, Petroglyphs too. Visitor center has an education center that looked promising but is currently closed due to COVID."
Hike mountain trails: The Joe Lott Trail leads from the south end of Castle Rock Campground into Fishlake National Forest. Barry S. explains, "For hikers, the south end of the campground is the north origin of the Joe Lott Trail that heads into the Fishlake National Forest."
Access ATV trails: The Paiute ATV trail system connects with multiple campgrounds in the area. Judy T. notes that Castle Rock Campground "is also a place to camp for enthusiasts of the Paiute Trail, a large network of ATV trails as it had a trail near the northern end of the campground."
What campers like
Affordable glamping options: While tipis at Castle Rock are popular, Mystic Hot Springs offers converted buses for a unique glamping in Cove, Utah area experience. Leigh-Anne H. shares, "Stayed in an old bus turned into cute little camp spot. Stayed here in the dead of winter and was very comfy and cozy. Bus had heated blankets and was thoughtfully set up."
Dark skies for stargazing: The region offers exceptional night sky viewing away from light pollution. At Sunglow Campground, Steven E. reports, "Amazing soaking and star gazing, and surprisingly easy soaking. Maybe I just got lucky!"
Red rock landscapes: The dramatic scenery draws many campers to the region. Matthew S. describes his experience at Thousand Lakes RV Park: "The views on the north and east were stunning, North was all back in and East had some pull through spots, aim for these if you can."
Stream-side camping: Many sites feature natural water features. Dianna L. reports about Castle Rock Campground: "Beautiful campground. Quiet and lots of shade. Our site had a stream running by it."
What you should know
Weather extremes: Despite high summer temperatures, nights can be cold, and winds can be significant. At Sand Creek RV Park, Kayleigh T. notes, "The site had nice views but is very exposed and very very windy which means we kept time outside of the van to a minimum as it wasn't very relaxing."
Seasonal operations: Many facilities close during winter months. When visiting Sam Stowe Campground, Troy L. advises, "There was a spot to purchase firewood at the campground; as I recall it was $5 or $6 dollars for an armful."
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds are close to interstate highways. Barry S. mentions about Sand Creek, "Sand Creek is located on Hwy 24, and the road noise didn't quiet down until around 11 PM. Probably not a good choice any time for a light sleeper."
Wildlife awareness: Rattlesnakes are present in the region. Troy L. cautions, "The one warning, there are signs in the campground warning of rattlesnakes and we did see one. It gave plenty of notice that we were to close."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Fillmore KOA offers a swimming pool that's popular with younger campers. Preston G. mentions, "The KOA pool and spa were great. Sites are very close together and not all sites that say have a fire pit actually do."
Educational opportunities: The Fremont Indian State Park museum provides learning experiences about local history. Connie C. notes about Castle Rock Campground: "You are close to the Fremont Indian exhibit and trails. There is also a nice trail that leads up into the Fishlake National Forest. Lots to see! There are red rock pillars, yellow aspen and native american art."
Protected tent sites: Some campgrounds offer wind shelters for tents. Kayleigh T. observes at Sand Creek, "There are wooden shelters for tent spots to mitigate the wind but this would still make me nervous if I were in a tent!"
Creek exploration: Kids enjoy playing in the shallow creeks at some campgrounds. Magarin H. shares their experience at Sunglow: "We caught a beautiful sunset against the red cliffs as we set up camp. Our tent was close to a little stream that was really pleasant to listen to as we fell asleep."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: At Thousand Lakes RV Park, Matthew S. advises, "Sites are all gravel with a little grass patch, pull through sites could fit two side by side. All sites seemed to have a table and fire ring. The views on the north and east were stunning, North was all back in and East had some pull through spots, aim for these if you can."
Electrical considerations: Some campgrounds have power limitations. Pam R. cautions, "When all the large RVs returned for the night, our electricity browned out and we couldn't run our AC. Our power also cut out during the night."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer sewer hookups or dump stations. Kristin S. reports about Fillmore KOA, "WiFi was very weak but the hookups are in good condition. We really appreciated the grounds with trees and grass."
Winter access: Some RV parks remain open year-round with adjusted amenities. Carlyne F. notes about Sand Creek, "They're still open in the Winter, but we didn't find out they closed their showers and bathrooms until we were told upon arrival. (They close 10/31)"
