Dispersed tent campsites near Meadow, Utah often sit at elevations between 6,000 and 7,000 feet, creating natural cooling during summer months. Most sites across Fish Lake National Forest feature juniper and pine vegetation that provides partial shade. Fall temperatures drop significantly after sunset, requiring campers to prepare for temperature variations that can exceed 30 degrees between day and night.
What to do
Explore off-road trails: The Fish Lake National Forest Campsite area contains numerous hiking paths through juniper forests that require no permits for day hiking. "We took a short walk and did encounter a small herd of cows near the road. It was perfect!" notes a camper at Fish Lake National Forest.
Watch wildlife: Early morning hours provide opportunities to observe free-ranging cattle and native wildlife. According to one visitor at Dispersed Sandy Lot: "We were looking for an easy place away from the interstate to split our drive from Idaho to St George in half. There was no one here at all and found easy place with a tree to set up 26ft tt. Let the dog roam free around meadow."
Stargaze: Limited light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing conditions. The elevated terrain enhances visibility, particularly at sites further from highways. "We took the next one on the right. It had a pull through and trees and was a bit more private, although no privacy needed as we didn't see a soul," reports a camper about their secluded experience.
What campers like
Natural cooling: Higher elevation sites often benefit from consistent breezes. A camper at Whiskey Creek Road USFS Dispersed shares: "Camp was relatively flat, good trees for shade and elevated to allow for nice views and a breeze. Kids enjoyed exploring and climbing the small trees."
Quick access to highways: Most dispersed sites remain within 30 minutes of major routes while feeling remote. "It's convenient to I-70 but feels very remote. We passed one other camper on the way in," explains a visitor, adding that despite highway proximity, their experience felt secluded.
Existing fire rings: Many sites feature previously established fire pits despite limited other amenities. "There is a fire pit. Access is easy on and off from a gravel road. Campers, RVs, and people with tents can easily use this site," confirms one camper. Remember that seasonal fire restrictions may apply regardless of existing rings.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access roads require different vehicle capabilities depending on recent weather. "Gravel road is well maintained with minimal washboard," reports one Maple Hollow visitor, while another notes: "5 mile rough gravel road for access. Could not find a site in the camp itself, but many pull off on the way up."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites have no water sources or toilets. Pack sufficient water for drinking, cooking and cleanup. "No facilities," confirms a camper succinctly, highlighting the self-sufficient nature of dispersed camping in this area.
Cell service varies: Coverage depends on specific location and carrier. "Great views, quiet, only downside is no cell service," reports one camper, while another notes: "I passed several occupied sites but found a gorgeous pull through with beautiful views. Minor I70 noise, had cell service - T-Mobile."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with natural play features: Look for areas with smaller trees and open spaces for children to explore. "Kids enjoyed exploring and climbing the small trees. Previous campers made fire pits. No one to be seen for miles," shares a visitor at Betenson Flat Trailhead.
Plan for temperature changes: Mountain elevation causes significant temperature drops after sunset. "Beautiful fresh air. Plenty of shade," notes one camper, with evening temperatures often dropping below 50°F even during summer months.
Consider vault toilet locations: When camping with younger children, sites near Maple Hollow provide vault toilet access. "Two vault toilets for the whole camp area," confirms one visitor, making this location more suitable for families with small children than completely undeveloped sites.
Tips from RVers
Evaluate site angles before committing: Many dispersed sites contain uneven terrain requiring careful positioning. "Much bigger climb than expected, so if towing a heavier trailer be aware," cautions an RV camper at Fish Lake National Forest Campsite.
Limited larger rig options: Most undeveloped sites accommodate smaller vehicles only. "Limited space for small trailers/campers. Good for campervans or tent campers," advises one visitor, indicating that larger RVs may struggle to find suitable parking.
Pack leveling equipment: Prepare for sloped sites with blocks or leveling systems. "There was a spot on the left that would have had awesome sunset views, but we took the next one on the right. It had a pull through and trees," reports an RVer, highlighting how site selection often involves trading level ground for views.
