Tent camping near Manti-La Sal National Forest ranges from walk-in sites at higher elevations to drive-in dispersed areas accessible from forest roads. Located in central Utah, these tent camping areas span elevations from approximately 7,000 to 9,000 feet with juniper woodland transitioning to aspen and pine forest at higher elevations. Seasonal temperature fluctuations impact camping conditions significantly, with summer highs rarely exceeding 85°F at higher elevations and nighttime temperatures dropping below 40°F even in July.
What to do
Bouldering opportunities: Joe's Valley Bouldering Area provides access to world-class climbing problems on sandstone boulders throughout the valley. Campers who stay nearby can walk directly to climbing areas without additional driving.
Fishing at multiple locations: Town Reservoir Fishing & Camping Site offers accessible bank fishing for trout. The surrounding reservoir area provides natural shade while anglers try their luck from multiple access points around the water.
Mountain biking on forest trails: Willow Creek Road area features mountain biking trails directly adjacent to camping areas. One reviewer noted the location is "RIGHT next to a mountain bike trail, so expect some early-morning bikers to be coming down."
Wildlife viewing: Fish Lake National Forest dispersed areas provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. One visitor mentioned, "Cows meander around the campsite..didn't bother us." The open terrain with scattered juniper trees creates good visibility for wildlife observation.
What campers like
Solitude in dispersed areas: Willow Creek Road dispersed camping provides exceptional privacy despite its accessibility. A recent visitor noted, "It was a great place to camp" while another camper mentioned it was "a great dispersed place to stay."
Convenience to major routes: Fish Lake National Forest camping areas balance accessibility with wilderness feel. One camper appreciated that the location is "convenient to I-70 but feels very remote" while another noted it was "just needed to find a place for the night and this was perfect!"
Scenic views at higher elevations: Willow Creek Road sites offer panoramic vistas at nearly 8,000 feet. A camper shared that "the drive up is amazing during sunset." The road climbs steadily to reach dispersed camping areas with commanding views of the surrounding landscape.
Natural tree coverage: Many sites throughout the forest provide natural shade and wind protection. At Fish Lake National Forest, one visitor found "a gorgeous pull through with beautiful views" that included sufficient tree cover for comfort without blocking scenic vistas.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access to many dispersed sites requires navigating unpaved roads that change with weather conditions. A Fish Lake National Forest visitor warned about "a little washboard on lower road," a common condition on forest service routes during dry periods.
High elevation impacts: Willow Creek Road sites sit at approximately 8,000 feet, making them unsuitable for cold-weather camping. A camper specifically noted these are "not a winter camping spot" due to the elevation and potential for early/late season snow.
Limited amenities: Most tent camping areas near Manti-La Sal provide minimal or no facilities. Campers should bring all necessary supplies including water, as no potable water sources are available at most locations.
Cell service variability: Connectivity ranges from good to nonexistent depending on location and carrier. At Fish Lake National Forest, experiences varied from "had cell service- T-Mobile" to "only downside is no cell service," indicating spotty coverage throughout the region.
Tips for camping with families
Arrive early for prime spots: During peak season (June-August), the most desirable tent sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. One Willow Creek camper observed that "I imagine the weekends are busy" and recommended arriving Sunday night when "quite a bit of traffic heading out."
Consider noise proximity: Select sites based on your family's sensitivity to ambient sounds. Fish Lake National Forest sites are "close to the highway, far enough to not really hear it," providing a balance of accessibility and quiet.
Prepare for temperature swings: Even summer camping requires warm clothing for evenings when temperatures drop significantly after sunset. The high elevation means nighttime temperatures can fall below 45°F even in July.
Look for natural features: Sites with natural boundaries like rock formations or tree groupings help contain younger children. Some areas offer "pull through and trees" which can create natural play areas while providing privacy.
Tips from RVers
Scout for level sites: Dispersed areas rarely offer prepared tent pads, requiring campers to search for naturally level ground. In Fish Lake National Forest, campers report finding suitable spots by driving "about 3/4 mile back from the coordinates, into the trees" where more level terrain exists.
Travel light for remote areas: Bring minimal but essential gear when accessing higher-elevation tent sites. Sites along Willow Creek Road may require "good roads in" but conditions can change quickly with weather, making lighter loads advantageous.
Plan for temperature management: High elevation camping means significant day-to-night temperature fluctuations. Tents with adequate ventilation that can be quickly adjusted are ideal for these conditions.
