Fishlake National Forest offers rustic camping options across central Utah at elevations ranging from 5,500 to 11,000 feet. These dispersed camping areas provide a no-frills outdoor experience with varying accessibility depending on seasonal conditions and vehicle capabilities. Summer temperatures can reach the 80s during the day while dropping to the 40s at night, even in July and August.
What to do
Fishing in solitude: Koosharem Reservoir provides excellent fishing opportunities with minimal crowds. "Perfect place for an evening stop over. Easy access on a gravel road. Public restroom was clean," reports one camper.
Wildlife watching: The high elevation areas near Big Lake Cua Dispersed camping offer extensive wildlife viewing. "Fish, salamanders, cougars, and plenty of elk all over make it a wonderful place to camp," notes a visitor who found the area particularly special.
Photography at sunrise: The red rock formations near Capitol Reef provide stunning photo opportunities, especially in early morning. According to one camper, "We pulled in in the middle of the night only to wake up and find ourselves among the red rocks."
What campers like
Lakeside camping: Otter Creek Dispersed Camping lets you camp right at the water's edge. "Had a lovely experience here. Found a nice spot right by the water with alot of space. Very peaceful and free!" notes a recent visitor.
Shade during hot months: Some sites along Otter Creek feature trees for protection from summer sun. One camper mentioned, "Large, level spot less than 6 yards from the water. A few large trees provide nice shade. There was even a picnic table."
Accessible kayaking: Watercraft access at several reservoir sites enables paddling without developed boat ramps. "Went kayaking at sunrise, the water was warm and smooth as glass! Be careful finding the right area to put in your kayak," advises one camper who experienced challenging shoreline conditions.
What you should know
Weather considerations: High elevation sites experience sudden temperature drops and strong winds. At Beas Lewis Flat Dispersed, campers note: "We won't stay again due to relentless wind. Zero wind in the park just a 15 min drive away but the wind here was just terrible."
Cell coverage: Service varies dramatically by carrier and location. "I was in 5G 2 bars so a really good connection," reports a camper at Beas Lewis, while others note Verizon typically provides better reception throughout the area.
Private property awareness: Always verify land status before setting up camp. At Big Lake, one visitor cautions, "You need permission to hike in. When we showed up, there were turkey hunters already up there. I would do much more research than we did before going."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible reservoir camping: Capitol Reef National Park Dispersed Camping offers family-friendly sites despite the primitive conditions. "There are absolutely no amenities here, but there are several established sites with fire pits. Good views and a good spot close to the park if you're okay with going without water and plumbing for the night."
Wildlife viewing with kids: Morning and evening offer peak wildlife viewing times. Campers report seeing "deer, various bird species, ducks, gulls, geese, pelicans and more. Watched a deer stop by for a drink and a cow cross my camping spot."
Preparation essentials: Pack extra water and weather-appropriate gear. Temperature swings of 40+ degrees between day and night are common in summer. "Temps drop quickly, it may be a bit windy, but the views were excellent," notes one Capitol Reef camper.
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: Many dispersed sites require careful navigation. At Shingle creek dispersed, one camper notes: "The road getting up is about 4 miles of dirt road, 4x4 recommended but i made it up in my prius."
Site selection for larger rigs: Look for wider pullouts near main roads. "With our 28ft camper, we didn't have any trouble finding a secluded spot," reports a camper at Capitol Reef dispersed areas.
Level site hunting: Scout thoroughly before committing to a spot. "Awesome sites, not all are level but you have to look for the flat ones. Stunning views. It's also 12 minutes from capitol reef," advises a camper at Beas Lewis Flat.
