Cabins near Manti-La Sal National Forest range from modern accommodations to rustic wilderness retreats across elevations of 8,000-11,000 feet. The forest spans over one million acres with significant temperature variations between day and night, even in summer months when temperatures can drop below 50°F after sunset.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: Palisade State Park Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities with regular stocking of the lake. "Great rec area including a playground. Bathrooms well maintained and pedal boat and other boat rentals. Plenty of fish to catch off the shore or in a boat," notes Matt L.
Golfing with lake views: The golf course adjacent to Palisade State Park provides scenic play with dining options. "The golf course is gorgeous. It's so pretty and the golf course is right next to the lake/campground. The restaurant at the golf club has really good food," shares Makenzie R.
Mountain biking on local trails: Oasis Campground at Yuba State Park connects to various biking paths suitable for beginners and experienced riders. "We've been coming here for several years now, and it hasn't disappointed! We really love the lake and all the little trails we could mountain bike on!" explains Brittley A.
ATV trail access: Many cabin locations provide direct trail access for off-roading enthusiasts. "We were able to ride our side by side from this location right onto the Arapeen trail. The main office will give you a simple map on how to get there and they also sell the trail maps for $10.50," reports Alisa P. about the Manti-La Sal KOA.
What campers like
Covered picnic areas: Oasis Campground features covered picnic tables at each site, providing shade during hot summer days. "Nice facilities, with covered picnic tables at each RV spot, water, and most with electric. Nearby dump station. Some grass and green areas for dogs," explains Edward R.
Private bathroom facilities: Several cabin properties offer individual bathroom facilities rather than communal options. "The private restrooms are better than home! A nice big shower, toilet and sink, a chair, hooks and nicely lit," shares Nancy about Castle Gate RV Park.
River access: Some cabins back up to rivers, providing relaxing waterfront settings. "We backed up to the river, and our lot was very spacious. So tranquil and relaxing! We took our chairs down to the river bank each evening," notes Jody J. at Castle Gate RV Park.
Group accommodations: Heritage Grove Campground has facilities designed for larger gatherings with shared amenities. "Lots of amenities like a playground and volleyball net. Campgrounds face the main area where cars drive so they're not very private, but that wasn't a problem for us," comments Rayna D.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Some cabin properties have closely spaced units while others provide more privacy. "The sites are close together so you don't get a whole lot of privacy. The staff were steady busy leveling off the gravel in each site and mowing the lawns," mentions Steven M. about Manti-La Sal KOA.
Noise considerations: Several properties are located near roads or rail lines. "There is a set of train tracks nearby so that may matter if you're a light sleeper. I didn't wake up to any trains so they may not go through at night," notes Fnu L. about Castle Gate RV Park.
Reservation timing: Cabins book quickly during peak season. "It is getting busier so it's harder to get a reservation," warns Makenzie R. about Palisade State Park.
Variable water conditions: Lake quality can change seasonally. "There was an algae bloom that made lake hazardous, so we kept dogs away from the water," reports Edward R. about Yuba State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for cabin size indicators: Family-friendly cabin options vary in capacity. "This is a great place for families or big groups to come to! We really love the lake and all the little trails we could mountain bike on!" recommends Brittley A. about Palisade State Park.
Check for play areas: Buckhorn RV Park and Resort offers facilities designed specifically for children. "They offer spacious pull-through RV spots, luxury cabins and Tipis(Teepees), as well as tent sites and a group area for rent," according to Ashley F.
Consider swimming options: Some properties have pools or lake access. "Clean restrooms and showers. Great swimming pool. Beautiful camp sites. Easy to find. Quick drive to small town eats and even a drive inn movie theater," recommends Curtis H. about Manti-La Sal KOA.
Evaluate noise tolerance: Some cabins near busy areas may disrupt light sleepers. "If you're looking for solitude, drive up a canyon road and skip Palisade State Park. It's loud and busy most days of the week in the summer," cautions Madison G.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling: Some cabin and RV sites require significant leveling equipment. "The only reason I did not give it 5 stars is because some of the sites aren't level and are pretty close to each other. I had to use 3 yellow square leveling blocks on the left side," shares Kenyon about Manti-La Sal KOA.
Verify hookup locations: Hookup configurations can present challenges at some properties. "The sewer hookup is located at the back of the site which is a little different but works fine!" mentions Kimberly L. about Castle Gate RV Park.
Consider water pressure variables: Water systems vary between properties. "Their water pressure is outstanding in fact they recommend a pressure regulator on the supply line," advises Michael C. about Castle Gate RV Park.
Confirm Wi-Fi reliability: Internet access varies significantly between properties. "The WiFi actually extends throughout the campground thanks to access points all through the property," notes Steven M. about Castle Gate RV Park.