Manti-LaSal National Forest near La Sal, Utah sits at elevations between 7,000-12,721 feet, creating dramatic temperature differences between the forest and nearby desert areas. Summer daytime temperatures typically range from 70-85°F at higher elevations, dropping to 40-50°F at night. Horse riders can access over 100 miles of trails through alpine terrain, aspen groves, and meadows filled with wildflowers during July and August.
What to do
Explore dinosaur tracks: Near Courthouse Rock, visitors can hike to see preserved dinosaur prints within an easy distance from the campground. "Rustic toilet facilities, trash bin even a paddock for those who brought horses. Dinosaur prints within an easy hike," notes Elizabeth S.
Visit mountain lakes: The higher elevation lakes provide relief from summer heat and opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. At Manti-LaSal National Forest Oowah Lake Campground, campers can "swim, kayak, and hike in! Many established little areas with fire rings and picnic tables. I highly recommend hiking to Clark Lake as well to get some stunning Mountain View's!" according to Ruby W.
Mountain biking: The area offers extensive trail networks for cyclists of all skill levels. A camper at Cotter Mine Road Dispersed Sites mentioned, "Slightly rough road to get into the campsite plenty of places to choose from... Verizon had full bar coverage and you're close to Arches and Canyonlands."
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevations of La Sal provide escape from summer desert heat. At CR 0083, campers appreciate that it's "high elevation so it's good and cool at night," as Jordan W. reports.
Wildlife viewing: The mountains support diverse wildlife that regularly visit camping areas. Jennifer R. observed at CR 0083: "We saw probably 30 deer, multiple cows, a whole group of wild turkeys, and lots of different kinds of birds. Our dogs were thrilled to run around the large site and up and down the hill adjacent."
Night skies: The remote location offers exceptional stargazing conditions. At Dispersed Camping Outside of Moab, Adria K. shared, "OMG the stars. Can't wait to go back. It was active, but we just grabbed the first spot we found. Perfect place to set up shop for the night."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many camping areas require travel on unpaved roads of varying quality. Spencer B. noted about Cotter Mine Road: "The road here is bumpy but manageable for most stock vehicles. We found a campsite that wide open, flat and had incredible views at night."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping lacks amenities. At Devils Garden Campground, Chris P. reported, "$25/night gets you flush toilets, drinking water, dishwashing sink, fire ring, picnic table and picturesque views of the La Sal Mountains and rock formations."
Wildlife precautions: The presence of wildlife requires proper food storage and awareness. Aric O. described CR 0083: "We watched two separate flocks of turkeys and a large head of deer with our morning coffee and breakfast... Absolutely zero noise, beautiful scenery and milkyway clear skies."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with amenities: For families with young children, established campgrounds offer necessary facilities. Melody Z. recommends Kens Lake Group Sites: "Clean facilities and well kept sites, perfect place to get some distance but not TOO much!"
Consider weather protection: The mountain area experiences rapid weather changes and strong winds. Angela G. warns about Lone Mesa Group Campground: "BE MINDFUL OF WIND! These group sites are very exposed and have little to no cover and can be extremely dangerous on a windy day/night."
Plan for temperature swings: Pack clothing for both warm days and cool nights, especially at higher elevations. Bailey A. notes about dispersed camping: "We tent camped here in mid December and it was cold at night, but nothing too terrible if you have the right sleeping bags."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many forest roads aren't suitable for larger RVs. Grace V. cautions about Cotter Mine Road: "Definitely good for car/tent camping and vans. Do not drive a big trailer or camper down this road. I wouldn't take this road in a sedan either. Narrow rough road with steep drop off with jeeps and rtvs whipping around."
Consider equestrian-friendly sites: For horse camping near La Sal, Utah, look for sites with adequate space. At Courthouse Rock, Elizabeth S. notes there's "even a paddock for those who brought horses" making it suitable for equestrian camping.
Check elevation gains: Forest roads can involve significant climbing. At 3 Step Hideaway, JDavid R. describes it as an "Off grid, peaceful retreat" with "old western town vibe" that offers "Hikes, dirt biking, mountain biking, ATV / 4wd trails everywhere."
