Fishlake National Forest and surrounding areas in central Utah provide a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed camping options. The region includes several campground facilities like Otter Creek State Park, South Forty RV Park, and Castle Rock Campground at Fremont Indian State Park, which accommodate tent campers, RVs, and cabin stays. Most developed sites offer amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, with many providing electric hookups and shower facilities. Several campgrounds, including Mystic Hot Springs and Sevier River RV Park, feature cabin rentals alongside traditional camping sites.
Seasonal considerations play a key role in planning trips to this high-desert region. Most campgrounds operate year-round, though facilities like South Forty RV Park (open April through mid-October) have limited seasonal availability. Summer temperatures can reach the 90s, while spring and fall offer milder conditions ideal for outdoor recreation. Winter camping requires preparation for potential snowfall and cold nights. Reservations are recommended during peak summer months, especially for waterfront sites at Otter Creek State Park. Roads to campgrounds are generally well-maintained, though access to more remote areas may require high-clearance vehicles. "Spent a night at Otter Creek in a tent site. Beautiful lake in Piute County with large, level spots less than 6 yards from the water. Went kayaking at sunrise, the water was warm and smooth as glass," noted a recent visitor.
The lakes and reservoirs surrounding Fishlake National Forest attract many visitors seeking water-based recreation. Otter Creek State Park Campground provides direct access to Otter Creek Reservoir, popular for fishing and boating. Several campground reviews mention excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for rainbow trout. The area's elevation provides relief from summer heat while offering scenic mountain views. Campers seeking solitude might prefer dispersed sites around Big John Flat, which one reviewer described as having "very large open camping areas with open meadows and large trees" with "a lot of room between campsites." The Paiute Trail system is accessible from several campgrounds, including South Forty RV Park, making the area popular with ATV enthusiasts who can access trails directly from their campsites.
"Just driving through, we heard about this place and have to come back! Makes you feel like you’re back in the 80’s just having a good time, away from all the stress and worries of the city."
"Beautiful location and it was a nice place to walk around. Outdoor kitchen and showers as well as community space. Camping was about $25/night."
$20 - $40 / night
"Castle Rock campground in Fishlake National forest is one of two campgrounds that serve Utah's Fremont Indian State Park, with both administration and reservations handled through the Utah State Park system"
"You are close to the Fremont Indian exhibit and trails. There is also a nice trail that leads up into the Fishlake National Forest. Lots to see! "
$15 / night
"Sites did not included a table, but there was plenty of room to set up outside. Staff was very friendly and helpful. There is a fishing pond that was also home to geese, ducks and other birds."
"They have RV spots, cabins and beautiful tent areas right next to the river. Also there's an ATVs rental nearby."
"Toilets and showers are just next to the tent sites. I arrived without reservation and ten minutes before office closing time, still was made feeling welcome."
"The park is in a great location for SxS trail access. Laundry room and showers onsite were clean and convenient. Highly recommend this place and definitely looking forward to coming back."
$35 - $100 / night
"The next morning, we woke up to snow on the ground and the nearby mountaintops."
"Beautiful spot and while it’s close to I-70c, we couldn’t hear anything inside our van. Bathrooms were very clean. Didn’t try showers but they looked clean. Being quarters for the showers."
$8 / night
"Pick your camping location among the cottonwood trees or out in the open for full solar. No services other than pit toilets (which are still locked in early May). Quiet. Good birding."
"Beautiful view of the lake and mountains."
$43 - $119 / night
"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!"
"This is located just before you get to the city. There are some pretty strict rules with dogs, sewer lines, and washing UTVs/ATVs in your site."
$30 - $250 / night
"Beautiful location with lots to do, fishing obviously, tons off riding on close by trails."
"There’s no toilets close by, it is primitive camping. There’s RV space but no hookups. Our dogs loved the area! The water is nice and clean."
$40 - $43 / night
"The Marysvale RV Park has a great location if your love to explore, they even have some great trail access from the campground! Check them out and share some pics of your stay!"
TravelerThis camping spot is right next the road and about 3 miles from Capital Reef entrance. The views here are amazing. There were other campers here too which I like.
GuideEasy to get to in my van. Plenty of open space. Close to town, but not too close. Clear view of sky for solar and Starlink. 2 bars of AT&T.
GuideWe were driving from Bryce to Capital Reef and planned on camping in Torrey but you can’t pass a lakeside camp site up. Plenty of room for everyone to not be on each other. There is a vault BR closer to water with picnic table nearby but we stayed on a different spot away from there. If you are in an RV the roads are decent but you will be bumped around. We were in our camper van. Perfect for star gazing at night too.
ScoutEasily traveled dirt road in. I drive and F250 but there were multi smaller vehicles and RVs. Great views a good amount of wind so be careful with your fires. I had to put mine out again at 2am because it restarted. Hard to put tent stakes in the ground due to rocks so I just used the rocks the hold it down.
GuideThe main road (dirt) is in great condition. Big spot for multiple vehicles (we are traveling together). Plenty of sky for solar and Starlink.
ScoutIt is right by the road, but if you don’t mind it, it’s perfect! Porta potties, showers, and fire pits. Super cute and quiet.
TravelerWe've stayed at a few dispersed sites over the past few days in Southern Utah, and this was by far the quietest so far. Easy to dig to leave no trace. Pretty views in the distance. Be careful if it's been wet or snowy, the last little bit uphill to the site was pretty slick with our Outback.
RangerThe fruit trees were just starting to bloom. The restrooms in C Loop were closed due to the season I assume
ScoutThe campground was quiet, we were with an 23ft RV and the road was easy accessible. It is more difficult to level your rv
Fishlake National Forest offers camping between 6,000-9,000 feet elevation, with dispersed sites primarily concentrated around Big John Flat, Elkhorn Loop, and Doctor Creek. The region's sagebrush terrain transitions to aspen forests and high-mountain lakes, creating distinct temperature variations between the valley floor and higher elevations. Summer nights can drop to the 40s even when daytime temperatures reach 80-90°F.
Access the Paiute Trail system: Marysvale RV Park provides direct access to the extensive trail network, which includes over 900 miles of designated routes. "The Marysvale RV Park has a great location if your love to explore, they even have some great trail access from the campground!" notes Jake C.
Explore Fremont Indian rock art: Sam Stowe Campground serves as an excellent base for viewing ancient petroglyphs. "Visited the various sites for Rock Art through the park. Great stuff. We were able to stream using Verizon," reports Wayne F., who stayed for two nights at Sam Stowe Campground — Fremont Indian State Park.
Soak in thermal springs: Mystic Hot Springs offers 24/7 access to mineral pools with temperatures ranging from 98-110°F. "Amazing Hot Springs was perfect. Just a short walk from the camping spot up to the hot spring that is open 24/7. Would recommend this to anyone as the perfect weekend getaway," shares Leigh-Anne H.
Proximity to water recreation: At Otter Creek State Park, campsites are situated within yards of the reservoir. "Great sites for all types of camping. Good facilities. Beautiful location with lots to do, fishing obviously, tons off riding on close by trails," says Brett C. about Otter Creek State Park Campground.
Unique accommodations: For alternatives to traditional tents or RVs, Mystic Hot Springs offers converted buses and cabins. "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," reports Leigh-Anne H. about Mystic Hot Springs.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds feature resident wildlife. "Ducks, geese and some stunning peacocks running around. It was a great experience and cant wait to go back!" notes Thomas B. about his stay at Mystic Hot Springs.
Elevation considerations: Camping in Fishlake National Forest means preparing for significant temperature fluctuations due to elevation changes between 6,000-9,000 feet. Nights can be surprisingly cold even in summer months.
Dispersed camping regulations: Free camping is available in select areas like Piute State Park. "No one here but us. Beautiful view of the lake and mountains," reports Katie about her boondocking experience at the park.
ATV restrictions and rules: Some campgrounds have specific regulations for off-road vehicles. "There are some pretty strict rules with dogs, sewer lines, and washing UTVs/ATVs in your site. However, the camp is very clean so it appears the rules are working," explains Shad G. about South Forty RV Park.
Opt for sites with shade: Castle Rock Campground provides ample tree coverage for protection from summer heat. "Sites are very private with trees blocking view of other people. There's a cute little creek and a nice trail in the back!" shares Tean B. about their experience at Castle Rock Campground — Fremont Indian State Park.
Consider educational opportunities: Fremont Indian State Park has interpretive displays suitable for children. "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," notes connie C.
Book cabins for shoulder season visits: For spring or fall trips with unpredictable weather, consider cabin options. "We were going to pitch a tent but it was so late we got a cabin instead. We were right next to the river. Super grateful for the wonderful night sleep before hitting the road again," writes Lisa D. about her stay at Sevier River RV Park.
Reserve pull-through sites: Many campgrounds offer convenient pull-through options. "Sites are gravel, level and well maintained. Most are pull through. Hookups are in excellent condition," reports Richard &. about Sevier River RV Park.
Consider site assignments: Some parks assign specific sites rather than allowing selection. "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," notes Shad G. about South Forty RV Park.
Check for tent camping options: RV parks often accommodate tent campers as well. "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," reports Iris A. about Lizzie & Charlies RV-ATV Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to camp in Fishlake National Forest?
Late summer to early fall (August-October) is the ideal time to camp in Fishlake National Forest when temperatures are moderate and the aspen trees begin their spectacular color display. At Forsyth Reservoir, campers enjoy pleasant weather beside a charming mountain lake during this period. Fall camping at Doctor Creek offers a peaceful experience with fewer crowds and stunning yellow aspen trees in the famous Pando grove. Summer (June-July) brings warmer days perfect for fishing and water activities, though higher elevations stay cooler than surrounding areas. Spring can be wet with lingering snow at higher elevations, while winter brings cold temperatures and limited access to many campgrounds due to snow closure.
Do I need reservations for camping at Fish Lake in Utah?
Reservations are highly recommended for camping at Fish Lake, especially during the peak summer season and weekends. Doctor Creek campground, located near Fish Lake, can be reserved through the recreation.gov system, which helps secure your spot in this popular area. For a different experience near Fish Lake, LeBaron Reservoir Campground doesn't have a camp host, so advance reservations are particularly important during busy periods. If campgrounds are full, there are dispersed camping options in the surrounding Fishlake National Forest areas. For the best chance at securing your preferred site, make reservations up to six months in advance for summer visits, particularly for holiday weekends. Last-minute campers might have better luck during mid-week or shoulder season visits.
Where are the best campgrounds in Fishlake National Forest?
Fishlake National Forest offers several outstanding campgrounds across its diverse landscape. Castle Rock Campground is exceptionally clean and well-maintained with gravel sites featuring fire pits and tables, plus access to hiking trails leading into the forest. For a more secluded experience, LeBaron Reservoir Campground offers incredible views and spotless facilities, though reservations are recommended during busy periods. Other excellent options include Adelaide Campground (tucked in the hills near Kanosh with creek access), Forsyth Reservoir (simple lakeside camping with 3-4 sites and a bathroom), and Doctor Creek (located near Fish Lake with boat ramp access). Most campgrounds offer basic amenities like vault toilets, while some provide drinking water and more developed facilities.
What amenities are available at Fish Lake campgrounds?
Campgrounds around Fish Lake offer varied amenities to enhance your stay. Adelaide Campground features clean facilities with two bathrooms within short walking distance of all sites, plus large open areas for recreation and a creek running nearby. Forsyth Reservoir provides more basic amenities with vault toilets and limited sites in a peaceful setting. Most Fish Lake area campgrounds include standard picnic tables, fire rings or pits, and vault toilets. Some campgrounds offer drinking water during the main season, but availability varies. Boat ramps are accessible at several locations for fishing and water recreation. While most sites accommodate tents and smaller RVs, hook-ups are generally not available at Forest Service campgrounds. Cell service is limited throughout the area, so plan accordingly for a more disconnected experience.
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