Best Tent Camping near Manti-La Sal National Forest
Public lands surrounding Manti-La Sal National Forest in Utah offer diverse tent camping options, from established campgrounds to primitive backcountry sites. Willow Creek Road Dispersed Site provides free tent-only camping at nearly 8,000 feet elevation, while Upper Six Mile Ponds offers established tent campsites in Sanpete County with a June to October operating season. Fish Lake National Forest also features walk-in tent sites accessible from Interstate 70, providing a balance of convenience and seclusion for tent campers seeking natural surroundings without lengthy travel times.
Most tent campgrounds in this region feature minimal amenities, with campers needing to bring their own water and supplies. Gravel roads access many sites, with conditions varying seasonally - dry weather generally allows standard vehicles to reach most areas, while wet conditions may require high-clearance vehicles. Maple Hollow campground features 11 sites with fire rings and picnic tables, though water supplies are sometimes turned off. Vault toilets are available at select locations like Upper Six Mile Ponds, but most dispersed areas have no sanitation facilities. Fire restrictions frequently apply during summer months, particularly in drought years.
Tent campers report finding excellent solitude at many sites throughout the region. According to reviews, Willow Creek Road Dispersed Site remains quiet even during peak season, with one camper noting they "saw only two other people" during a Thursday stay. The high elevation provides cooler temperatures during summer months but makes winter camping impractical. At Fish Lake National Forest, tent sites offer surprising privacy despite proximity to highways. One visitor observed that despite being "close to the highway, it's far enough to not really hear it." Many sites feature juniper and pine trees providing natural wind protection and shade, with established fire rings at most locations. Wildlife sightings are common, with deer, cows, and coyotes frequently encountered near primitive tent camping areas.
