Dispersed camping areas near Manila, Utah provide direct access to the rugged terrain of Ashley National Forest and Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. These free sites sit at elevations between 6,000-8,000 feet, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 45°F at night to 85°F during day. Road conditions vary seasonally, with spring thaws often creating challenging access points that require higher clearance vehicles.
What to do
Trail riding access: Forest Service Road 217 Dispersed camping connects to extensive trail networks with terrain suitable for various skill levels. "I'm here in October and though chilly it's gorgeous! There are a lot of hunters here with their four wheels but no one has bothered me," notes Rebecca S. about the Forest Service Road 217 Dispersed area.
Fishing opportunities: The Spring Creek Road Dispersed area provides direct lake access for anglers targeting kokanee salmon and trout. Cortlan S. mentions, "Nice grassy spots, just pull in where ever you see a fire ring. The dirt road in isn't too bad and is pretty short, there were plenty of sedans driving in so it's accessible for most vehicles when the ground is dry." The Spring Creek Road Dispersed - Flaming Gorge area stays accessible through mid-October.
Wildlife viewing: The Sheep Creek Geological Loop road near Carmel Campground offers opportunities to view bighorn sheep, moose and seasonal salmon runs. Glen B. reports, "When I was there the Kokanee salmon were spawning and filled the creek with their vibrant colors. Up the road you can see bighorn sheep that graze in the fields of the ranch." Hikes through Carmel Campground - Ashley National Forest provide multiple wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Lake proximity: Jug Hollow Road Dispersed Camp offers waterfront access with multiple sites directly on the shoreline. Samuel G. notes, "There was not another single soul at this campsite while I was here. At the end of a peninsula into the flaming gorge reservoir, this spot is simply stunning. Huge spots and great views. Came in October and the temperature was much warmer than anticipated." The Jug Hollow Road - Dispersed Camp sites allow visitors to camp within feet of the water.
Isolation from crowds: Meadow Park Dispersed Camping provides secluded spots under tree cover away from main recreation areas. Tyrinn B. says, "We found this place by chance a couple summers ago when all the campgrounds were packed this one was vacant and absolutely breathtaking. This dispersed campground is one to check out. It has very secluded spots tucked in the trees." The distance from main roads reduces noise at Meadow Park Dispersed Camping.
Terrain variety: The FS #049 Road Dispersed Camping Area offers sites shielded from highway noise with varied terrain options. Greg L. points out, "This dispersed camping area is free and is along FS road #049 into Greens Draw area. Area is shielded from hwy 191 noise. However it has a strong ATT cell signal (no Verizon or TMobile)." This dispersed area features multiple clearings suitable for both tent and RV camping.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed equestrian camping areas often feature washouts that require careful navigation. "The road that leads to this dispersed camping is dirt and quite bumpy but no holes," explains Petr K. about Spring Creek Road.
Open range concerns: Multiple equestrian camping areas near Manila operate on open range with livestock presence. Lori S. cautions about Jug Hollow: "Lots of expansive soil. Impassable when wet. Our 2 wheel drive van got stuck in muck. Jeep pulled it out luckily. Open range means lots of cow pies."
Limited facilities: East Park Campground offers vault toilets but lacks water and trash service. Greg L. notes, "Nice CG, paved FS rd all the way except last 1/2 mile of gravel from FS rd #20. CG has 20 camp sites, no reservations. $10 nite, vault toilets but NO water or garbage." The East Park Campground - Ashley National Forest operates from June 15 to September 15.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible shore fishing: Carmel Campground provides creek access with seasonal fishing opportunities suitable for children. Connor B. reports, "Easy access, paved road all the way up the canyon. Only a few sites that back up to the creek. Amazing sunset with the red canyon wall in the background."
Wildlife education: Justin B. recommends Carmel Campground for night sky viewing with children: "Minutes away from lots of activities. This campground is secluded in Ashley National Forest with tons to do. From hiking to fishing to playing in the Gorge you'll enjoy this location day and night. The night sky was amazing for meteor showers."
Insect preparation: Prepare for seasonal midge presence when camping at waterfront sites. Lani R. advises at Spring Creek: "Don't listen to the reviews about 'non biting mosquitos' they are midges! Mosquito's harmless doppelgangers, but there are A LOT of them."
Tips from RVers
Trailer size limitations: Horse campgrounds near Manila accommodate larger rigs with restrictions. Michelle L. confirms about Spring Creek Road: "Easy dirt road, pulled 34 foot toy hauler with no problem. Enough space to turn around at the end of the road. Very quiet at night, perfect for sleeping."
Horse trailer considerations: When bringing horses to dispersed camping areas, prepare for rustic conditions. Claudia C. comments on the equine-friendly Meadow Park: "Lovely camp spots for my teardrop trailer in deciduous forest. Nice mixed terrain gravel bike ride on the old road."
Generator etiquette: SpentBrassOffroad B. points out at Jug Hollow: "Expect to hear generators and power sports equipment, nothing too crazy though. The bugs weren't too bad either. The little island in the middle has an eagles nest and some antelope on it, so you can get some wildlife views as well."
