Glamping options near Manti, Utah range from forest reservoirs to mountain lakeside settings. The area sits at approximately 5,000-5,500 feet elevation in central Utah where summer temperatures average 75-85°F with cool evenings dropping to the 40s. Most luxury camping accommodations in the region close during winter months when temperatures can drop well below freezing.
What to do
Fishing at multiple reservoirs: Joes Valley Reservoir provides excellent fishing opportunities with multiple species available. "Loved the lake tons of fish to go fishing!" notes one visitor to Palisade State Park Campground. Another camper at Joe's Valley adds, "Great fishery for children and youth, as well as an amazing area for swimming and kayaking."
Mountain biking on nearby trails: The region offers extensive trail systems for bikers of various skill levels. A visitor to Joes Valley Campground reports, "Endless trails to ride/hike good camping and fishing highly recommended!!!" Some trails connect directly to camping areas, allowing for convenient access.
ATV and OHV adventures: The Arapeen Trail system provides extensive off-highway vehicle routes throughout the mountains. "Lots of area to explore. Each site has power and water, and there are vault toilets scattered throughout the campground," mentions a reviewer at Painted Rocks Campground. The Fillmore area connects to the Utah UTV trail system.
What campers like
Clean facilities and amenities: Many glamping locations maintain well-kept restrooms and common areas. A visitor to Fillmore KOA reports, "Showers, bathrooms, laundry and common areas were spotless." Another camper notes, "The campground and facilities are very clean and well maintained."
Scenic water views: The turquoise waters of area reservoirs provide stunning backdrops for luxury camping. "The sunrise is spectacular, especially when you wait for it out by the lake!" shares a visitor at Payson Lakes. Joes Valley Reservoir is described as "a beautiful turquoise color and is great for boating and fishing."
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer better separation between accommodations. A reviewer at Painted Rocks Campground — Yuba State Park states, "We didn't have many neighbors either time we stayed here." At Joes Valley Campground, a camper notes, "There were trees on both sides of the campsite and there is ample spacing between sites."
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary: Most glamping sites require advance booking, especially from May through September. At Orange Olsen, one visitor advises, "I really want to give a poor review so no one else will take my future reservations. However, they really are in a great location and easily accessible."
Weather and seasonal considerations: High elevation means temperature swings even in summer. "We stayed here a while back and loved the camp grounds. They are nice and well kept. Great for trailers or tents of any size," reports a camper at Palisade State Park.
Facility limitations: Some glamping locations have restricted amenities. A Joe's Valley visitor cautions, "There are no trash bins onsite, so what you bring in, you have to pack out." Another notes, "There are water spigots throughout the campground to fill water containers, but none at the individual sites."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly fishing spots: Several lakes offer easy fishing access for children. "The lake isn't too big so if your teen blows across the lake on his kayak or raft he can easily walk it back around the lake," shares a visitor at Payson Lakes.
Playground access: Some glamping locations feature recreation areas specifically for children. At Palisade State Park, families appreciate having activities beyond water recreation. The campground includes play areas within walking distance of most glamping sites.
Spacious accommodation options: Family groups need adequate space. At Joe's Valley, "The Dwelling is large enough to hold a really big family or two couples with small children. The cabin is pretty small but large enough for a family of four."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site availability: Certain campgrounds offer convenient pull-through sites for larger rigs. At Yuba State Park, one RVer reports, "We have a 42 ft motorhome and a separate pickup with a 6x12 trailer and we fit both in a pull through site and it looked like there was another 40 feet available."
Power hookup options: Different glamping locations offer varied electrical services. One camper at Miller Flat-Joes Valley-Huntington Canyon Rec Area appreciated the "nice big camp sites" with proper facilities for RVs and trailers.
Dump station locations: Not all glamping sites include sewer connections. A visitor to Yuba State Park notes, "Potable/drinking water is also available at the dump station," making it convenient for RVers needing to refresh water tanks while emptying waste.
