Best Tent Camping near Cove, UT

Fishlake National Forest provides several tent camping options near Cove, Utah, with both established campgrounds and dispersed camping areas. Maple Hollow offers multiple tent sites with picnic tables and fire rings among maple trees, evergreens, and oak trees. The Fish Lake National Forest area contains several dispersed tent camping locations accessible via dirt roads, allowing for more remote and private tent camping experiences approximately 15-20 minutes from Interstate 70.

Road access to tent sites varies from well-maintained dirt roads to more rugged routes requiring careful navigation. Maple Hollow features 11 designated tent sites with fire rings and picnic tables, though water may not be available due to periodic shutoffs. Most dispersed tent camping areas in Fishlake National Forest lack amenities like drinking water or toilets, requiring campers to bring their own supplies and follow leave-no-trace principles. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with higher elevation areas accessible later in spring after snowmelt.

Tent campers benefit from the shade and shelter provided by the trees at many sites. A visitor commented, "We had the whole place to ourselves. There are several fire ring/picnic table spots in the campground. Maple trees, evergreens and oak trees throughout. Beautiful fresh air. Plenty of shade." The dispersed tent sites in Fish Lake National Forest offer greater privacy, though they require self-sufficiency. Areas near Whiskey Creek Road provide relatively flat camping surfaces with good tree coverage for shade and natural windbreaks. Wildlife sightings are common, with reports of bears in some areas, so proper food storage is essential for tent campers. Most tent sites remain uncrowded even during peak seasons, especially on weekdays, making them ideal for those seeking solitude.

Best Tent Sites Near Cove, Utah (19)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Cove, UT

3 Photos of 19 Cove Campgrounds


Tent Camping Reviews near Cove, UT

362 Reviews of 19 Cove Campgrounds


  • R
    Jul. 18, 2018

    Cathedral Valley Campground — Capitol Reef National Park

    A small scenic campground at the north end of the Park

    This campground is situated at the north end of the Park at a high elevation. It's free and has picnic tables, fire rings and a vault toilet but no water. If you want to make a fire, you must bring your own firewood. There are excellent views of the valley below only a short walk from the campsites.

  • Bubble G.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 22, 2024

    Castle Rock Campground — Fremont Indian State Park

    Great location, quiet, semi private

    The site we camped had a private walk to the little creek, fire ring and picnic table. Well built bathrooms and a garbage dump available for use. $5 for all you can carry in your arms in fire wood… felt private without anyone parked on either side but later people came and the noise went up a little, but overall cute camp. Got one of the first come first serve sites, payment in cash only $20 for the night (established site, no water, no electric, no sewer) Pets allowed-leashed.

  • I
    Aug. 31, 2020

    Little Cottonwood Campground

    Great Overnight stop car camping

    Checked in at 8:30pm on a Monday during a cross country drive.  Host was gracious and suggested spot 12.  There  was plenty of availability even late eve (weekday).  All were good, quiet spots.  Spot 12 was across from wheelchair path to creek (Beaver River).  There was a nice bench where path met creek, great for sitting and enjoying morning coffee/fishing/relaxing.  Spots had faucet, picnic table and level tent pad filled with pea gravel-bring good footprint/tarp.  It was quiet, and the creek noise was pleasant.  The road was very close, and you could hear the traffic, but it wasn't a bother (about 2-3cars/hour).  One very nice thing about this campground is the gravel covering all the picnic/firepit and frequented areas.  This completely eliminated the dust that typically gets on everything while camping.  There was shade from trees, but this was is a pretty tight canyon, so there are very few hours of direct sunlight anyway.  Host delivered wood.  Long trails leave right from campground.  No showers, clean vault toilets.

  • B
    Sep. 18, 2020

    Sand Creek RV, Cabins, Tents

    Might be adequate, if you are not picky

    We spent a single night in one of the tent sites, which are immediately behind the office/owner's residence. Sites have a parking space, fire ring with grill attachment, a picnic table and a gravel tent pad. They are small, and not separated from one another, so if you're looking for any level of privacy you won't find it here. On the other hand, if you like sharing space with other campers you may enjoy it. You also may experience those staying in the RV section walking through your site in order to get to the restrooms/showers.

    The campground has both firewood and ice available for purchase. The remainder of the campground store is currently closed due to Covid regulations.

    If you have any concerns about Covid (this is being written in September 2020), SC is not a site I would recommend. While the owners have placed signs suggesting social distancing guidelines, including masks while in the restrooms/shower area, compliance among the campers in a nearly full campground was minimal. One unmasked female camper was loudly discussing all the airports she had passed through on her way to the area, including Chicago and Denver. 

    Even little details were missed, like the soap in the restrooms being organic and not antibacterial.

    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.

    If you have a self-contained RV and are just looking for a place to park for the night, Sand Creek is likely to fit your needs. For a tent camper, its main recommendation is the ability to reserve a site in advance, as most of the other campgrounds in the area are first come, first serve.

  • Judy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 26, 2020

    Forsyth Reservoir

    Quiet place to camp along Hwy 72

    We were there 10/11/2020 during hunting season It was around 20° the night we stayed. This is a free campground for hunters or for the few people traveling on highway 72. There was a clean vault toilet and rock fire rings but no water, garbage, or picnic table. There could be fishing there as we saw lots of fish jump.

    It is a scenic quiet place and the night skies are phenomenal. There is mouse infestation there as the first site we stopped at had dead mice everywhere. One got in our camper but we soon chased it out, The USFS person who cleaned the vault toilet confirmed this.

    I rated it 3 stars due to mouse problem otherwise it would be 4 stars.

    It opens in May but their website didn’t say which date. I am assuming this depends on the snow level at 8000’. It was still open when we camped in October.

  • Russell W.
    Jul. 6, 2022

    Maple Hollow

    Beautiful spot

    Camped overnight. We had the whole place to ourselves. There are several fire ring/picnic table spots in the campground. Maple trees, evergreens and oak trees throughout. Beautiful fresh air. Plenty of shade. Two vault toilets for the whole camp area.

  • Troy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 31, 2019

    Sam Stowe Campground — Fremont Indian State Park

    Ranger Review: Travelers Autobarn Campervan at Fremont Indian State Park

    We spent a fun day exploring Cedar Breaks National Monument. However, we lost track of time, the sun was setting and we had not chosen a place to camp. 

    Campground Review of Fremont Indian State Park:

    We searched on TheDyrt app for nearby campgrounds and found Fremont Indian State Park. We drove down the mountain and around another mountain and found the campground. It was totally dark by the time that we arrived and so we quickly parked and set up our campervan to sleep. 

    A gentleman emerged from the shadows and approached our site. It seemed a little sketchy at first. However, he ended up being friendly and inquired if we’d like to join him and his friends around their campfire. After we prepared our campervan and cleaned up a bit, we dropped by the campfire. It turns out the party included some park staff and researchers. One lady was researching dark skies and one gentleman was researching astral alignment with ancient rock art. They shared about their research and showed us some of their amazing photos of the night sky. A warm way to end the day.

    The next morning, we woke up to snow on the ground and the nearby mountaintops. Having learned from our new friends that the park contained some pretty significant rock art, we decided that we should check it out. We hiked on a couple of the trails and discovered quite a few of the rock art pieces created by the Fremont Indians. There's an easy trail that is located adjacent to the park office. There are other trails that run along the river. It is amazing that so much of the rock art was in such good condition.

    The campsites provide the basics like a parking space, picnic table, electrical & water hookup and firepit/grill. The restrooms were conveniently located close to our campsite and were clean. There are showers behind the restrooms. During the winter the showers may be closed. The campground is somewhat small, but is surrounded by beautiful mountains and bluffs. The staff were super friendly and helpful.

    For more info: https://stateparks.utah.gov/parks/fremont-indian/

    Product Review of Travelers Autobarn Campervans:

    As a Ranger for The Dyrt, from time to time I am provided products to test. For this outing I was provided a Travelers Autobarn Kuga Campervan. 

    For more info: https://www.travellers-autobarnrv.com

    The best thing about traveling in a campervan is the ease, flexibility, and ability to make detours if needed. 

    We picked up our Kuga Campervan in Las Vegas. The Travelers Autobarn office is just west of the the main strip and easy to find. We arrived early in the day to begin the registration process and campervan orientation. The process was quick and easy. The Kuga Campervan is a hightop van conversion with couches, a table, two beds, propane stove, sink, water, kitchen, interior lights, fan, window shades and solar power. We also had the free living package which included kitchen pots, pans, utensils, cups and accessories. It also included sleeping bags, sheets, pillows and towels. The package pretty much made it super easy to get in the van and go. 

    The Travelers Autobarn staff member was super friendly and provided an orientation of the basic operation of the campervan. The campervan drives like a normal van, but learning about the camper functions was helpful. 

    We had charted a route around Utah and Arizona visiting a number of towns, parks, roadside attractions and hot springs. The day that we started a weather system passed through which made the temperatures drop in the northern part of our route. We simply flipped our route to avoid the cold weather and traveled the southern route first. By the time that we circled north the weather had warmed up and it was perfect weather for exploring. Traveling in a campervan made it super easy to be flexible with our route and schedule. 

    On our seven day trip we visited Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, Horseshoe Bend National Monument. Monument Valley National Park, Arches National Park, Mystic Hotsprings, Zion National Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument, Meadow Hotsprings, Valley of Fire State Park and Fremont Indian State Park. 

    If we were not traveling in a campervan it is unlikely that we would have had the flexibility to camp anytime and anywhere. We would have never found and stayed at Fremont Indian State Park. It ended up being a gem of a park and a great overall experience. This campervan camping adventure opened up my mind to new opportunities and travels. So much fun!

    For more info: https://www.travellers-autobarnrv.com

  • G
    Jul. 7, 2020

    Kents Lake Campground

    Lake front

    Beautiful location with endless summer mountain activities. Water taps and vault toilets, no hook ups. Mixed pull through, back in, and tent sites. Perfect for under 30' campers. The area has several lakes, ATV trails, hiking trails, and scenic drives. Lakes have trout, some allow small motorized boats.

  • Sally K.
    Feb. 24, 2024

    Raven's Nest Utah Campground

    Feals like out in the wilderness but only 10 miles from town.

     On the 93 acres, there are many dry sites to camp for the wild and adventurous. Pick your site in the trees and set up your camp. Make sure to bring water, lighting, a chair and or table, trash bags, what you bring in you take out. There are a few out houses so look for one close to you. Good shoes are a must. The walk to the sites isn't far unless you want it to be. Bring a tent, hammock, or sleep under the stars. Arrival Time: after Noon and before 8PM unless arrangements are made ahead of time and Check Out is before noon. Have an awesome experience.


Guide to Cove

Fishlake National Forest encompasses 1.5 million acres of central Utah terrain with elevations ranging from 5,500 to 11,000 feet. Camping opportunities near Cove, Utah extend beyond the well-known Maple Hollow area, with numerous tent campsites scattered throughout nearby canyons and forests. Winter conditions generally make most primitive sites inaccessible from November through April due to snow accumulation at higher elevations.

What to do

Explore creek access points: Several dispersed tent campsites near Cove, Utah are positioned near small creeks that offer simple water activities. At Birch Creek Campground, a camper noted, "The 4.5 mile road off the highway is very good though dusty. Creek is lovely." Water levels fluctuate seasonally, typically reaching peak flow in May and early June.

Mountain biking connections: The areas around tent camping in Fishlake National Forest provide access to lesser-known trail networks. At Elkhorn Recreation Site, a visitor mentioned, "There is still plenty of room for the kids to bring bikes and 4 wheelers." Most trails are unmaintained and require intermediate to advanced riding skills.

Wildlife observation: The juniper and pine forests surrounding many campsites host diverse wildlife. A camper at Fish Lake National Forest Campsite shared a cautionary experience: "As I was laying in my sleeping bag inside my tent around 11pm, some creature started stalking me around midnight. I could hear it moving and breathing outside my tent." Wildlife activity increases at dawn and dusk.

What campers like

Accessibility for standard vehicles: Many dispersed tent campsites near Cove can be reached without specialized vehicles. A visitor to Fish Lake National Forest Campsite confirmed, "Super easy access for any car if roads are dry. Lots of places to get back in the junipers a lil and have a nice private place to sleep." Forest service roads are typically graded in early summer.

Quietness despite proximity to highways: Several camping areas maintain a sense of isolation while remaining relatively close to major routes. One camper reported, "Really quiet despite being so close to the interstate" and another confirmed "About a 7-10 min drive to the freeway. No freeway noise though."

Availability during peak seasons: Many tent campsites near Cove remain uncrowded even during summer months. At Maple Hollow, a reviewer found "Much bigger climb than expected, so if towing a heavier trailer be aware. Gravel road is well maintained with minimal washboard." The less accessible campsites typically have the lowest occupancy rates.

What you should know

Water source limitations: Water availability at tent campsites near Cove is inconsistent and often nonexistent. A Maple Hollow camper reported, "Water supply is turned off at all water sites - unsure whether this is related to flood damage or something else." Most dispersed sites require campers to bring all water needed for their stay.

Road conditions vary seasonally: Access roads to many tent camping areas deteriorate after rainstorms. One visitor observed, "5 mile rough gravel road for access. Could not find a site in the camp itself, but many pull off on the way up." Spring thaws often cause the most significant road damage, with repairs typically completed by mid-June.

Mobile connectivity considerations: Cell service varies dramatically between camping areas. A Birch Creek camper noted, "WeBoost 3 Verizon bars" while others reported complete dead zones. Higher elevation sites typically offer better connectivity than canyon locations.

Tips for camping with families

Site selection for security: When camping with children, choose areas with defined boundaries. At Elkhorn Recreation Site, a visitor advised, "This is a really nice campground it is primitive with some out houses and picnic tables. You are in the quackies and in the trees." Sites with natural borders help keep younger children within visual range.

Weather preparation essentials: High elevation tent campsites near Cove experience significant temperature drops after sunset. A camper recommended, "It is higher elevation so make sure you bring your coat." Nighttime temperatures can drop below 40°F even in summer months.

Activity planning for different age groups: Some camping areas offer natural features that engage children of various ages. A parent camping at Fish Lake National Forest shared, "We passed one other camper on the way in. There was a spot on the left that would have had awesome sunset views, but we took the next one on the right. It had a pull through and trees and was a bit more private."

Tips from RVers

Length restrictions on forest roads: Many tent campsites near Cove have limited turning radius for larger vehicles. A Maple Hollow camper noted, "Remaining 11 sites are nicely shaded among the trees. Limited space for small trailers/campers. Good for campervans or tent campers." Most sites accommodate vehicles under 25 feet in length.

Alternative parking strategies: When established sites are full, secondary options exist. One RVer reported, "We found a great spot about 1/2 mile back down the access road and spent a couple of beautiful days. Hardly a passerby." Roadside pullouts often provide adequate space for overnight stays when formal campgrounds are full.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Cove, UT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Cove, UT is Adelaide with a 0-star rating from 0 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Cove, UT?

TheDyrt.com has all 19 tent camping locations near Cove, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.