Equestrian campgrounds near Meadow, Utah offer trail access through the Fishlake National Forest and surrounding terrain. Most horse-friendly sites operate from May through October at elevations between 7,000-8,500 feet, creating cooler summer camping conditions compared to lower elevations. Roads to these areas typically require high-clearance vehicles when pulling horse trailers.
What to do
Fishing access points: Koosharem Reservoir permits camping near shorelines with good rainbow trout fishing. "They stock this with rainbow trout if you're a fisherman. Great Verizon service here, mountains are beautiful," notes Cat F. at Koosharem Reservoir.
Mountain biking trails: Big John Flat serves as both camping area and trailhead for numerous mountain biking routes. "Very large open camping area with open meadows and large trees. Great place to camp if you are planning to drive the Tushar road to Fremont," reports Gary E. at Big John Flat.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at Fish Lake National Forest Campsite provide opportunities to spot deer, wild turkeys and various bird species. "There was someone in the actual place of the coordinates. But we found a spot near by," mentions Valorie H., highlighting the flexibility of dispersed camping areas.
What campers like
Shade coverage: Maple Hollow offers dense tree cover providing natural cooling. "Maple trees, evergreens and oak trees throughout. Beautiful fresh air. Plenty of shade," writes Russell W. about Maple Hollow.
Lake proximity: Many visitors appreciate waterfront camping at Piute State Park. "Pick your camping location among the cottonwood trees or out in the open for full solar. No services other than pit toilets. Quiet. Good birding," explains C A. at Piute State Park Campground.
Accessibility from highways: Fish Lake National Forest provides convenient overnight stops. "Super easy access for any car if roads are dry. Lots of places to get back in the junipers a little and have a nice private place to sleep," shares Kristy B. at Fish Lake National Forest Campsite.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to several sites requires navigating unpaved roads. "5 mile rough gravel road for access. Could not find a site in the camp itself, but many pull off on the way up," reports Bob H. about Maple Hollow.
Water availability: Water sources at many sites are seasonal. "Water supply is turned off at all water sites - unsure whether this is related to flood damage or something else," Andrew M. notes regarding Maple Hollow during a July visit.
Toilet facilities: Most established campgrounds maintain vault toilets. "The vault toilets are clean. There was a steady stream of people stopping to use the toilet. But other than that it was pretty quiet," mentions Tom S. about Koosharem Reservoir.
Tips for camping with families
Stargazing spots: Open areas around Koosharem provide unobstructed night sky views. "The sunrise was beautiful here with a great view of the mountains and the reservoir. Hope you don't mind the sound of cows though," writes Lucas F.
Hiking options: Several hiking trails suitable for children start directly from campsites. "The campground had places you could go hiking and do a lot of exploring as well. At night the stars were so beautiful while sitting around the campfire and being together while roasting marshmallows," shares Judy M.
Safety considerations: Wildlife activity requires proper food storage. "Some creature started stalking me around midnight. I could hear it moving and breathing outside my tent. I managed to scare it off by hitting my car's 'panic button' on the keys," cautions Ean P.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Most horse campsites accommodate smaller rigs rather than large trailers. "Looks like there are 3-4 more small spots for tents or vans. Not sure how many could accommodate a bigger rig," observes Megan W.
Parking logistics: Level spots for larger vehicles can be limited. "Much bigger climb than expected, so if towing a heavier trailer be aware. Gravel road is well maintained with minimal washboard. Limited space for small trailers/campers," advises Andrew M.
Seasonal access: Spring camping at higher elevations often means encountering snow patches and muddy conditions until late May. "We'd certainly visit again!" mentions Josh R., who camped at Koosharem Reservoir where dispersed camping areas remain accessible earlier in the season than higher-elevation horse camps.
