Uinta National Forest Blackhawk Campground allows equestrian camping near Eureka, Utah, with suitable areas for horse trailers. Located approximately 39 miles from Eureka, this established campground provides trailer access and accommodates tent and RV camping alongside equestrian setups. The campground operates seasonally from May 25 to September 3, with a reservation system recommended for securing space during peak riding season. While the campground lacks water hookups, it does feature a sanitary dump station for longer stays. The immediate area contains multiple shooting ranges, so horses should be properly desensitized to occasional gunfire noise.
Direct access to forest service trails connects riders to expansive backcountry riding opportunities throughout the Uinta National Forest system. Located within reasonable trailering distance of several other camping options, Blackhawk serves as a strategic base for exploring the region's diverse terrain. Nearby Soldier's Pass offers free dispersed camping options for riders seeking more primitive conditions, though multiple reviews note the prevalence of off-road vehicle traffic and shooting activities in this area. Trail conditions vary seasonally, with early summer providing optimal riding conditions before Utah's intense heat. Riders must pack in all water for themselves and their horses as drinking water is not available at most equestrian camping locations in this region.
$27 - $270 / night
"Being that we already live in southern Utah county, this place has become a go to for our family. Only about 45 mins away from Payson Ut. "
"There is a lake close by within walking distance with a paved trail all around it. The water was low and pretty gross when we went at the end of the summer. I stayed at B23."
$26 / night
"Unreal location, and the lake is beautiful."
$25 - $175 / night
"This campground was nestled in the middle of Lehi Utah and it was a great place for us to swing in for one night."
"We were able to get a spot next to the Jordan River under a beautiful tree. We brought our 16ft camper and didn’t need to back it in or anything."
"The only bad part about this camp site is all the highway noise. It is close to the Provo river and there is lots of shade so that is nice. Great place to have a camp fire and cook some S'mores. "
"Close in to town, very pretty with Provo river next to it. Bike path and highway noise can be distracting."
$27 - $355 / night
"Tucked in very back. Long ways to walk from car. Water spout next to car area. Will be sharing parking with 2 other sites. 2 lakes nearby. Fire pit with grill gate. Shaded area."
"Utah is such an amazing place to visit for the outdoors. My family and I come here once a year because we love hiking and being in the outdoors."
"we booked equestrian sites up at the top - highest elevation. Good views, pavilions, fire pits and pit toilets."
"Access to lots of pretty places to run around and explore. Great places for kids to play. Lots of tall pine trees. I definitely recommend!"
"But this is Utah in the heat... Bring your own air conditioning. We are here mid-week. It is very quiet and peaceful except for the occasional train."
$27 - $204 / night
"This campground is well maintained and nestled into some nice pine trees in view of the backside of Mount Timpanogos, it is divided into 3 areas, one of which has horse corrals."
"Near hiking trails and reservoirs(no motor sports) Equest sites can be used by people wIthout horses too."
"Better for RVs and self contained vans as there were no amenities or even privacy, it was still large enough that we had plenty of distance between us and any other parties."
"There is a sign on the highway Sheep Creek. This is open range so you might see some cattle. I am sure you will see some cow patties so watch your step."
GuideBlackhawk is great if you can’t find reservations elsewhere. we booked equestrian sites up at the top - highest elevation. Good views, pavilions, fire pits and pit toilets. Don’t have to have horses to book equestrian and they seem to be more available since I don’t think people k ow this.
GuideFREE! No amenities! Must carry in all water. Shooting Range nearby. Great for ATVs and off road vehicles. Hiking is easy to moderate in abilty. Fire ring established in most common camp areas. Animals allowed. Close to Utah Lake.
LegendThis campground is well maintained and nestled into some nice pine trees in view of the backside of Mount Timpanogos, it is divided into 3 areas, one of which has horse corrals. While there are many campgrounds in Utah that rival it, this one is special because it's such a short drive after work.
GuideIt's not great. Next to a shooting range and orv trails, so you'll hear that. Shrubs and a few small trees dominate the landscape, so there isn't much privacy. Roads were bumpy, but manageable. Access depends on where you go, Several paths to take w other sites. Lots of trash. Rock fire pits. Amazing views of the mountains behind Provo and Utah Lake. Full cell service w At&t. Free!
ScoutI would reserve a spot ahead of time, avoiding any site in loop 'E'. That loop is for those planning to camp with horses. There are hitching posts at every site, therefore, lots of horse poo. And not the best place to take a dog because of all the horses in the area.
The camp host at loop 'E' and 'D' is very nice, and is willing to split up group areas to individuals who have no where else to set up camp. If you do this, expect to get to know new people as you will share a fire pit and eating area.
The fee to camp for one night is $20, but that includes access to any of the Payson lakes, which is $8 for day use.
We didn't go on any hikes during our stay, as we bummed at the beautiful lakes (only the middle of the three lakes is dog friendly) all day. However, there is plenty of hiking in the area.
Very hot. Around 90 degrees. Wake up and get breakfast early. Then enjoy the water in the heat!
P.S. 3 stars due to the fact that I had to camp in horse crap.
GuidePretty spot that smells like juniper and has a nice creek.
Minus a star for no running water and proximity to a busier road. I was the only camper on a chilly Wednesday night but had a surprising amount of traffic which woke me up a few times (my site was about 40 feet from the road).
Sites are nicely spaced, especially the equestrian sites at the top of the campground.
Full bars on Verizon. Small pit toilets. Clean and well kept overall.
ScoutBeing that we already live in southern Utah county, this place has become a go to for our family. Only about 45 mins away from Payson Ut.
Great fishery for children and youth, as well as an amazing area for swimming and kayaking. They do not allow motorized boats, so it is safe. Also the lake isn't too big so if your teen blows across the lake on his kayak or raft he can easily walk it back around the lake.
We definitely recommend it.
GuideTimooneke is beautiful. High elevation(7400ft) campground up the popular Alpine Loop. Book EARLY- ita very popular. Near hiking trails and reservoirs(no motor sports) Equest sites can be used by people wIthout horses too.
ScoutQuite area, lot of room. I stayed on site 58 (tent only). Enough room for 2 medium tents. Next/above stream. Tucked in very back. Long ways to walk from car. Water spout next to car area. Will be sharing parking with 2 other sites. 2 lakes nearby. Fire pit with grill gate. Shaded area. Full sun from 10am-4pm.
Equestrian camping options near Eureka, Utah extend beyond Uinta National Forest Blackhawk Campground, with several alternatives within 40 miles of town. The area sits at elevations between 5,000-7,400 feet, creating seasonal temperature variations from cold spring nights to hot summer days. Most horse camping locations lack drinking water, requiring riders to pack sufficient water for both themselves and their animals.
Trail riding at Timpooneke: Located approximately 35 miles from Eureka, this campground offers direct access to mountain trails. "It's a nice site right at the base of the timpooneke trail that leads to summit of my timp. Not free, but a great way to be there for a head start on the sunrise hike," notes Trip A. The trails connect to extensive backcountry terrain suitable for day rides.
Fishing opportunities: Many camping areas provide creek access for anglers. At Clover Springs Campground, riders can fish in the small stream running through the property, though "The water is more like a babbling brook than a stream. Great for kids and dogs to play in. Very few deep spots. Not really a fishing spot and if you were to catch it would be small," according to Joseph F.
Explore dispersed options: For riders seeking more isolation, Soldier's Pass Utah Backcountry offers primitive camping. "FREE! No amenities! Must carry in all water. Shooting Range nearby. Great for ATVs and off road vehicles. Hiking is easy to moderate in ability," reports Michelle B. The open terrain allows for trailer parking with numerous established fire rings.
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation camps like Payson Lakes provide relief from summer heat. "Being that we already live in southern Utah county, this place has become a go to for our family. Only about 45 mins away from Payson Ut," shares James B., noting the pleasant conditions for both horses and riders during hot months.
Water access for horses: Several sites feature natural springs or creeks. At Clover Springs Campground, campers appreciate "a cold fresh water spring that runs through the campground" as Tiffany M. mentions, providing natural water sources for horses during the drier months.
Privacy between sites: At Granite Flat, horseback riders appreciate site spacing. "Our site was very quiet and secluded. There are two reservoirs close by in Tibble Fork and Silverlake flat that are both beautiful," writes Justin J. Many campers value the separation between sites for managing horses away from other campers.
Variable reservation systems: Availability differs significantly between campgrounds. "Book EARLY! This campsite is always full," notes Andrea P. about Granite Flat, while less popular equestrian sites may have better availability. "We booked equestrian sites up at the top - highest elevation. Good views, pavilions, fire pits and pit toilets. Don't have to have horses to book equestrian and they seem to be more available since I don't think people know this," reports Andrea P. about Blackhawk Horse Camp.
Bring your own water: Almost all horse camping areas require packing water. "Must carry in all water," emphasizes Michelle B. about Soldier's Pass, and this applies to most equestrian sites in the region.
Seasonal closures affect access: Most higher elevation campgrounds close by mid-October. According to Jeff H., "Was unable to get in, this whole area was under closure. No for sure for how long. It wasn't a normal seasonal closure." Always check current status before planning a horse camping trip.
Look for shaded sites: Summer temperatures can reach 90°F during peak season. "Really nice spots with lots of trees and shade," notes Brad B. about Timpooneke, making it more comfortable for both families and horses.
Consider creek access: Water features provide natural entertainment for children while horses rest. At Spanish Fork River Park, "The river is more like a small creek in August" but still offers play opportunities for children.
Prepare for noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise disruptions. "Neighboring dogs barking for most of our stay" was reported by Paige J. at Payson Lakes, which could potentially disturb horses as well as family sleep.
Look for level sites: Trailer parking can be challenging at some locations. "The one downside was that the tent spot was not flat, and had quite a few large rocks," mentions Justin J. about Granite Flat, an important consideration for horse trailers and RVs.
Seasonal road conditions: Access varies throughout the year. "The surrounding area is full of closed roads making this spot inaccessible," warns Hannah P. about Clover Springs, highlighting the need to verify road conditions before attempting to reach campsites with large rigs or horse trailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Eureka, UT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Eureka, UT is Payson Lakes with a 4.3-star rating from 17 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Eureka, UT?
TheDyrt.com has all 18 equestrian camping locations near Eureka, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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