Tent camping around Fountain Green, Utah primarily centers on the Manti-La Sal National Forest, with most sites sitting between 7,000-9,000 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range 20-30 degrees cooler than valley locations, dropping into the 40s at night even in July. Camping options include both established Forest Service campgrounds with minimal facilities and numerous dispersed sites along forest roads.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Campers staying at Chicken Creek Campground can access nearby reservoirs for fishing. "Beautiful scenery. Lots of shade and dappled sunlight. River steps away. River not too cold," reports one visitor to Dry Canyon.
Wildlife watching: The mountains around Fountain Green support diverse wildlife. "I have seen elk, deer, moose, and black bear in this area so bring a camera and don't leave food in your tent," advises a camper who stayed at Dry Canyon.
Hiking trails: The area offers numerous day hiking opportunities. "Great hikes, great fishing, amazing places to ride horses, or just amazing views," mentions a Dry Canyon reviewer about the surrounding terrain.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Campers appreciate the privacy found at many dispersed sites. "Just off of willow creek rd. Turn left at the map coordinates. You are at almost 8000 ft so not a winter camping spot," notes a visitor to Willow Creek Road - Dispersed Site.
Affordable options: Most dispersed sites are free, while established campgrounds charge modest fees. "The camp sites are first come first serve. They are big sites and can hold a few tents each. Their are nice picnic tables and fire rings a pit style bathroom is available across the river," shares a Dry Canyon camper.
Natural sounds: Sleeping near flowing water is a highlight for many. "You're a perfect distance from the river so you can listen to it as you fall asleep, but you don't have to worry about floating away," describes a reviewer at Dry Canyon.
What you should know
Weather considerations: High elevation camping means significant temperature swings. "We stayed at a site that was at almost 8000 ft so not a winter camping spot," warns one Willow Creek Road camper.
Water availability: Most dispersed sites lack water sources. "This is a great spot for self-contained campers, van campers, or tent campers who don't need water," explains a visitor at Dry Canyon.
Weekend traffic: Expect more visitors during peak times. "There is some ATV traffic but respectfully slow. Good roads in but we got there on a Sunday night and quite a bit of traffic heading out. I imagine the weekends are busy," shares a camper from Willow Creek Road.
Tips for camping with families
Group-friendly sites: Some campgrounds accommodate larger family groups. At Camp Maple Dell, "Multiple tents fit per site. We had 6 tents, and had room for several more. Covered pavillion with three picnic tables connected end to end," according to one family camper.
Water play options: Kids enjoy camping near streams during summer months. "The river ran right by our site and it was lovely," shares a camper who visited Dry Canyon in late September.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Teach children about local wildlife. "We enjoyed seeing deer walk through our camp daily," mentions a Camp Maple Dell visitor.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed sites can be challenging. At Paul Bunyon's Woodpile, "Road was easy enough dry, imagine it would be tough after a storm. There are a number of well dispersed sites, some with good wind protection, others less so."
Shade availability: Some desert sites offer limited shade. "We found a great campsite right by the trailhead, the only spot with trees and shade," notes a Paul Bunyon's camper, highlighting the importance of seeking protected spots during summer months.
Site selection: Look for established pullouts when dispersed camping. "Good, easy dispersed camping options on the way to Paul Bunyan Woodpile Trailhead," confirms a reviewer.
