Fishlake National Forest camping areas offer direct trail access for pets, making it popular for visitors with dogs seeking outdoor recreation. The forest sits at elevations between 5,500-11,000 feet with cool summer temperatures even when surrounding valleys reach 90°F. Most campgrounds remain accessible from May through October, though higher elevation sites may have delayed openings due to snowpack.
What to do
Trail access from campsites: South Forty RV Park provides direct access to the Paiute Trail system right from your site. As Casey G. notes, "Paiute Trail access right from the RV Park. Each site has a tree! The park is tucked in a beautiful canyon, and surrounded by mountains! There is a gorgeous paved bike path that runs along the river, nearby."
Fishing in Otter Creek: Otter Creek State Park Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities directly from shoreline camping spots. Robin E. shares, "The fishing is awesome with beautiful rainbows. We will be back. We love it there so much we wish we lived there." The lake is stocked regularly with rainbow trout.
Explore petroglyphs: Take short hikes to view ancient rock art at Fremont Indian State Park. As Marilynn F. mentions, "This is great when you need to hook up to water and electric. Also had clean restrooms and clean showers for $1.25 for 4 minutes." Wayne F. adds, "Great hiking trail at the rear of the campground. Goes up the canyon. Visited the various sites for Rock Art through the park. Great stuff."
What campers like
Hot springs access: Mystic Hot Springs offers unique soaking experiences in an eclectic setting. Steven E. shares, "I'll keep this short, but suffice it to say this place should be on your bucket list! Amazing soaking and star gazing, and surprisingly easy soaking." The springs are open 24/7 for overnight guests.
Private, shaded campsites: Castle Rock Campground features well-separated sites with natural screening. Tean B. reports, "Sites are pretty private with trees blocking view of other people. There's a cute little creek and a nice trail in the back! Bathrooms were clean and you can't hear the road." Many sites include creek access for pets to cool off.
Renovated facilities: Sevier River RV Park continues to improve its amenities for guests. Richard & notes, "Sites are gravel, level and well maintained. Most are pull through. Hookups are in excellent condition. There is a fishing pond that was also home to geese, ducks and other birds. A river runs along two sides of the park."
What you should know
Reservation policies: Some campgrounds don't guarantee specific sites even with reservations. Shad G. explains about South Forty RV Park, "The only thing I didn't love is that you don't get to reserve a specific site. They assign one to you when you arrive. It was fine for us because there wasn't really anyone here, but I don't know how it would work out if they were busy."
Pet regulations: Castle Rock Campground — Fremont Indian State Park enforces leash rules for dogs on trails. Barry S. mentions, "Every site has a fire pit, an elevated grill, and a picnic table." While dogs are welcome, they must remain leashed when exploring the petroglyphs and other sensitive cultural sites.
Bathroom facilities: Tent campers should note bathroom proximity when selecting sites. Iris A. notes about Lizzie & Charlies, "I spent a night at a tent site here. There were all 5 Sites available. Toilets and showers are just next to the tent sites." This convenience makes pet management easier during overnight stays.
Tips for camping with families
Budget-friendly options: Castle Rock Campground offers affordable camping including unique structures. Mariah G. shares, "Got to stay in a rad tipi site for only $30! They had firewood available by the bundle for $5/armload. Tent sites are $15 and extra cars are $10."
Educational opportunities: Fremont Indian State Park provides learning experiences about native cultures. Connie C. notes, "The campground is very nice. It is gravel with fire pits and tables. There are also tipis that can be rented. You are close to the Fremont Indian exhibit and trails. Lots to see! There are red rock pillars, yellow aspen and native american art."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds feature resident wildlife perfect for children to observe. Richard & describes Sevier River RV Park: "There is a fishing pond that was also home to geese, ducks and other birds. The office provided food so our 3 year year old granddaughter could feed those birds."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Lizzie & Charlies RV-ATV Park provides full-service sites for RVers with pets. Iris V. reports, "Most sites are pull-through with full hookups, which made setup easy. The staff was friendly and welcoming. The park is in a great location for SxS trail access. Laundry room and showers onsite were clean and convenient."
Site spacing: Pay attention to campsite proximity at busier locations. Richard & explains about Sevier River RV Park, "Neighbors could be a little close if the place is full. Sites did not include a table, but there was plenty of room to set up outside." Most pet-friendly sites have adequate space for animal containment.
Winter camping options: Some campgrounds remain open year-round for pet owners seeking off-season adventures. Leigh-Anne H. describes Mystic Hot Springs: "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."
