Ferron, Utah sits at approximately 5,900 feet elevation in central Utah's Castle Valley, where the desert landscape meets the Manti-La Sal National Forest. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F during the day while dropping below 60°F at night, creating significant temperature swings that campers must prepare for. The area experiences monsoon patterns in late summer with afternoon thunderstorms common from July through September.
What to do
Mountain biking at Joes Valley: The area surrounding Joes Valley Campground offers extensive trails for mountain biking enthusiasts. "There are no shortage of biking, hiking and riding trails. The campground sits adjacent to the Arapeen Tail which is a network of OHV trails," notes a camper who visited in June.
Fishing at multiple lakes: The region provides several fishing options beyond the main reservoir. "The smaller lakes and ponds are better suited for summertime fishing. Luckily they are short drives," explains a visitor at Orange Olsen, who mentions fishing at Joe's is better during spring and fall seasons.
Stargazing in dark skies: The remote location offers exceptional night viewing conditions. At Yuba State Park, a visitor reports, "The sky was so dark you could see thousands of stars." Light pollution is minimal throughout the region, with another camper confirming "not much light pollution" at the park.
What campers like
Spacious, well-designed sites: Many glamping spots near Ferron offer thoughtfully arranged accommodations. At Palisade State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the amenities: "They are nice and well kept. Great for trailers or tents of any size. Depending on the location you reserve you'll have an area of grass and a spot for your vehicle."
Clean facilities: Bathroom maintenance receives consistent praise from visitors. At Joes Valley Campground, a reviewer appreciated that "the campground is clean and well kept," while at Yuba State Park another noted, "The shade shelter, tent pad, and table were very well taken care of and clean."
Proximity to water recreation: Many sites offer quick access to water activities. Palisade State Park campers mention they "love going there in the summer months. Even to just go fishing is great. They also rent paddle boats and canoes if wanted. Have a sandy little beach as well."
What you should know
Limited services at some sites: Facilities vary significantly between locations. At Joes Valley Reservoir, "There are no dumpsters onsite, so what you bring in, you have to pack out," and one visitor notes, "The site has two picnic tables and a double wide parking pad. Trees are limited except with the sites on the rim starting with number 7."
Seasonal water levels: Drought conditions affect recreational options. One visitor observed, "The water was really low. We don't own a boat, so we were shore bound. Lots of rocks and trash on the shores and the sand was like quick sand along the water." Another camper noted, "The lake is drying up and looks a bit sad."
Weather considerations: Temperature variations require planning. At Goblin Valley State Park, a visitor mentioned, "As expected, a trip to Goblin Valley State Park in August is HOT; but, not to the point it was unbearable!" Wind can also be a factor, with another camper noting, "It was a bit windy (our site was on a hill overlooking the lake)."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options for comfortable stays: For families seeking glamping near Ferron, Goblin Valley State Park Campground provides unique accommodations. "Only 24 sites makes this one of the hardest campgrounds in Utah to book. If you're lucky enough to get in then you are going to love Goblin Valley. All of the sites come equipped with a shade structure, picnic table & fire ring."
Group campgrounds available: Family reunions work well at certain sites. At Joes Valley Reservoir, one visitor shares, "Since I was about 3, my family has gone to Joes Valley Reservoir for an extended family reunion! We tend to reserve the entire lower loop for a week in August... The best part about the campground is its ability to host a large group."
Tent camping considerations: Some areas are better suited for RVs than tents. A visitor at Joes Valley noted, "Tenters, this doesn't look like the best place for tents, but people were managing to find relatively flat spots," while another camper shared, "I enjoyed my experience tent camping. However, if you are somehow bothered by RVs or excess noise, you might want to find another campground."
Tips from RVers
Reservation planning essential: Many glamping locations require advance booking. At Blue Cut RV Park, visitors note the small size means limited availability: "Spots are small. But there are a few larger 5th wheel trails here." Another reviewer mentioned, "Sites spacious enough to extend slides. Sites are level and clean."
Noise considerations: Sound carries at several campgrounds. A Blue Cut RV Park reviewer explains, "The trains run 75 yards from camp. And can hear the highway to the west. But Blue Cut is Located on east side of a canyon so cliff wall reflects sound." Similarly, at Joes Valley, a camper warns, "It is a bit noisy, however. Everyone has 4-wheelers and most people bring RV's with generators... so expect some noise."
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by location. At Yuba State Park, visitors appreciate that "Water hookups at each site, as well as water available throughout the campground," while another notes, "Our site had water and electric. The restrooms were just OK."
