Dispersed camping near Manti, Utah offers freedom without fees at locations like Willow Creek Road and Jimmy's Fork. Many sites sit at nearly 8,000 feet elevation, providing cooler summer temperatures than the valley floor. Central Utah's camping season typically runs May through October, with most campgrounds closing during winter months due to snow accumulation.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Willow Creek Road - Dispersed Site provides direct access to mountain biking paths. "This was a great site to stop and pitch my rooftop tent. Not too far up the canyon, and it was very quiet. It is RIGHT next to a mountain bike trail, so expect some early-morning bikers to be coming down," notes camper Daniel S.
Rock climbing adventures: Maple Canyon features unique conglomerate rock formations perfect for climbers. "You are WALKING distance from sport climbs of all grades...If you are interested in geology, this place is worth at least a hike. Some canyons have pictographs too!" shares Sarah W. The area offers "tons of sport routes of all levels" according to Lisa.
Fishing opportunities: Lake fishing is available at several campgrounds within driving distance. At Oasis Campground — Yuba State Park, "there is a lot to fish for including northern pike, walleye, yellow perch, wiper, and catfish year-round," according to Alicia F. The park offers both shore fishing and boat access.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Lake Hill Campground in Manti-LaSal National Forest features "nice large campsites" according to Tanner S., though he notes they "can be hard to navigate with a large trailer or RV." Maple Canyon campers also appreciate the layout, with Lisa noting "the camp sites are great for van/tent or maybe small RV."
Dark night skies: Several campgrounds offer excellent stargazing opportunities. Ashlee W. describes her experience at Painted Rocks Campground: "The view of Yuba Lake was great and the site itself was really nice...It was a bit windy but the sky was so dark you could see thousands of stars."
Wildlife viewing: The area's camping locations often include opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Lake Hill Campground, one camper notes "a lot of cows and horses roaming freely," though cautions about nighttime visitors: "Hundred of chipmunks and skunks rated our camp site when we went to sleep." Lisa reminds campers at Maple Canyon that it's "bear and cougar country so keep your food and trash properly stored."
What you should know
Limited summer availability: Campgrounds near Manti become crowded during peak months. Lisa mentions that at Maple Canyon, "during summer it's hard to get a spot but there is some dispersed camping down the road." Similarly, at Palisade State Park, Karin W. notes it's "getting busier so it's harder to get a reservation."
Variable road conditions: Access to many dog friendly campgrounds near Manti requires driving on unpaved roads. At Jimmy's Fork, David C. recommends arriving "in the middle of the week" for the best selection of sites. For Maple Canyon, one reviewer warns "you are gonna want a car that can deal with some bumpy roads," while another mentions the "dirt road in, off the hwy, was a bit rutted."
Weather considerations: Seasonal changes dramatically affect camping conditions. Willow Creek dispersed camping sits at almost 8,000 feet, with Tracey W. noting it's "not a winter camping spot." At Maple Canyon, Belinda H. shared her March experience: "We didn't realize it was still covered in snow. I drive a Subaru outback AWD and still needed to stop and put on the chains."
Tips for camping with families
Look for water recreation: Families enjoy campgrounds with swimming and boating options. At Oasis Campground, campers mention "recreational opportunities include camping, 🛶, swimming, fishing" and note it has "beaches, and water is warm." LaDell G. adds that they "rent paddle boats and canoes if wanted. Have a sandy little beach as well."
Choose sites with amenities: For easier family camping, consider locations with facilities. Palisade State Park offers "plenty of grass and great facilities" according to one reviewer, while another mentions a "playground" and "pedal boat and other boat rentals" that appeal to families with children.
Find shade when possible: Summer heat makes shade valuable for family comfort. At Painted Rocks Campground, Ben notes that while the "view in all directions is beautiful," Sierra B. wishes "there wasn't so many prickers!" At Oasis Campground, campers appreciate that "each spot has a cover over the picnic table," providing crucial shade protection.
Tips from RVers
Know your site dimensions: RVers should verify site sizes before booking. At Painted Rocks Campground, Phillip R. shares: "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." He specifically recommends "campsite #2" but notes "there are other sites that are quite long."
Check hookup availability: Hookup options vary widely among pet friendly campgrounds near Manti. Jeff W. describes his experience at Manti Community: "We have a 32' trailer and thought we could turn around in the site, don't try that. There is a +/- 30 yard lane you have to back down to get your trailer to the site." At Temple Hill Resort RV & Campground, RVers can access "electric hookup and opened bathrooms" according to one reviewer.
Consider camp layout: Some campgrounds have challenges for larger rigs. At Maple Canyon, Lisa warns that "the sites are great for van/tent or maybe small RV but if it's busy there are no turn around spots as day parking areas could be full." Similarly, at Lake Hill Campground, Tanner S. cautions that sites "can be hard to navigate with a large trailer or RV."
