Dispersed camping near Marysvale, Utah offers numerous options throughout the Fishlake National Forest at elevations ranging from 6,000 to 9,000 feet. This region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during day and dropping to 45-55°F at night. Many sites remain accessible from late May through October, with higher elevation locations often inaccessible until late June due to snowmelt.
What to do
Fishing at local reservoirs: Three Creeks Reservoir provides primitive camping with lake access. According to Jake C., "Not any real amenities but that's what makes this area great."
ATV riding on established trails: Big Lake Cua Dispersed connects to popular OHV routes. Tyler R. notes, "Big lake and deep lake are so much fun. Camping here is my all time favorite. Fish, salamanders, cougars, and plenty of elk all over make it a wonderful place to camp."
Fruit picking in season: Visit nearby Capitol Reef where seasonal harvests occur. James W. describes camping options as "On a ridge just outside the national park. Take care driving in as there are large rocks on the entry track. Level sites for RVs and lots of tent suitable spots."
What campers like
Solitude at higher elevations: Otter Creek Dispersed Camping offers waterside locations away from crowds. Cole P. shares, "Had a lovely experience here. Found a nice spot right by the water with a lot of space. Very peaceful and free! Got there Friday later in the evening and had no issues finding a spot."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple sites provide chances to observe native species. At Otter Creek, Tamerisk Point Rec Site, Cat F. observed, "Saw lots of fish jumping in the water as well as ducks, gulls, geese, pelicans and more. Watched a deer stop by for a drink and a cow cross my camping spot."
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation camping offers relief during summer months. Maxime A. found Tamerisk Point to be a "Wonderfully place for a night, isolated and easy access," though notes "the coordinates are not correct, it's on the side of the lake."
What you should know
Cell service variability: Coverage depends on carrier and exact location. Many sites have spotty service. Cat F. reported about Otter Creek, "The downside was pretty much no cell phone coverage."
Road conditions vary significantly: Many dispersed sites require navigating unmaintained roads. Shingle Creek Dispersed access requires preparation as Lisa found: "Access dispersed area by taking Clear Creek Rd exit. There are some spots right after exiting hwy. We keep going back under the underpass and then took the left at the Y. Little rough dirt road if you have a car."
Location verification important: GPS coordinates for some sites may be incorrect. Rachel H. warns about Otter Creek Tamerisk Point: "The coordinates are incorrect so use the long/lat provided by someone in the comments."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: Look for locations with vault toilets for easier family camping. At Capitol Reef National Park Dispersed Camping, Elizabeth D. found, "There are porta potties on site that were cleaned the morning we got there! I also had service which was nice."
Check accessibility first: Some areas require advanced driving skills or higher clearance vehicles. Ron M. advises about Capitol Reef dispersed areas: "Go slow or you'll miss the entrance, it's not marked. Entrance and exit have rocks you need to navigate around but don't let that worry you."
Pack extra clothing layers: Temperature fluctuations can be significant. Katie M. notes, "We pulled in in the middle of the night only to wake up and find ourselves among the red rocks. There are absolutely no amenities here, but there are several established sites with fire pits."
Tips from RVers
Scout potential sites first: Some dispersed areas have limited turning space for larger rigs. Anna observes at Otter Creek BLM, "Multiple spots available along the river. There did seem to be someone who was living there, but there are spots available away from their spot. Picnic tables available!"
Bring leveling equipment: Many sites feature uneven terrain. Kevin T. describes Capitol Reef dispersed camping as "A large space, though uneven in parts. We pulled in later so there were a few folks already parked up for the night."
Research seasonal closures: Higher elevation sites may close early due to weather. Brooke F. shares this warning about Big Lake: "You need permission to hike in. When we showed up, there were turkey hunters already up there. I would do much more research than we did before going to make sure it's open."
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