Best Campgrounds near Mona, UT

The small town of Mona, Utah sits at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, providing access to diverse camping environments within a 30-mile radius. Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest manages several established campgrounds including Payson Lakes, Ponderosa, and Bear Canyon, which operate seasonally from May through September. These forest service sites typically offer basic amenities like vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. For those seeking more primitive experiences, Nebo Loop Road provides dispersed camping opportunities with minimal facilities but maximum solitude. RV travelers can find full hookup options at Rollin Home RV Park and Jones High Country RV Park in nearby Nephi, both offering more developed infrastructure including showers, electric hookups, and dump stations.

Most forest service campgrounds in the region require reservations during peak season, with sites filling quickly on summer weekends. According to one camper at Payson Lakes, "Great fishery for children and youth, as well as an amazing area for swimming and kayaking. They do not allow motorized boats, so it is safe." Road conditions vary significantly, with paved access to established campgrounds and rougher dirt roads leading to dispersed sites. Weather patterns follow mountain conditions, with cool nights even in summer and potential for afternoon thunderstorms. Cell service is generally reliable near towns but becomes spotty in canyon areas and at higher elevations. Many dispersed camping areas have 14-day stay limits and may require high-clearance vehicles for access.

Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the region, with several sites offering proximity to lakes or streams. Payson Lakes receives consistently high ratings for its family-friendly swimming and fishing opportunities in a forested setting. Visitors note the well-maintained facilities and shade trees as particular advantages. Cottonwood Campground near Nephi receives mixed reviews, with one camper describing it as "somewhat trashy" with "old toilet seats and some garbage laying around." Noise levels vary significantly between locations, with highway-adjacent sites experiencing more disruption than those deeper in forest settings. Campers seeking solitude should target higher elevation sites along Nebo Loop Road, while those wanting convenience might prefer locations closer to I-15 with easier access to services in Nephi or Payson.

Best Camping Sites Near Mona, Utah (206)

    1. Payson Lakes

    17 Reviews
    Elk Ridge, UT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 798-3571

    $305 / night

    "Being that we already live in southern Utah county, this place has become a go to for our family. Only about 45 mins away from Payson Ut. "

    "There is a lake close by within walking distance with a paved trail all around it. The water was low and pretty gross when we went at the end of the summer.

    I stayed at B23."

    2. Rollin Home RV Park

    8 Reviews
    Nephi, UT
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 250-8800

    "Spots were full but they let us park in the parking lot for the night and gave us full access to showers and laundry. Great showers that were clean and nicer than some hotels."

    "Walking path around a field."

    3. Jones High Country RV Park

    8 Reviews
    Nephi, UT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 623-2624

    $20 - $30 / night

    "Close to everything, clean, quiet, and reasonably priced for full hookup. Has late drop box which was convenient."

    "We pulled in after a long drive and found a cheap place to spend the night. This place is older and not very fancy. The staff was nice and helpful."

    4. Ponderosa Uinta

    7 Reviews
    Nephi, UT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 798-3571

    $51 / night

    "This place was shady and nice all around. The camping spots were spread out okay."

    "stream right next to campsite"

    5. Cottonwood Campground

    4 Reviews
    Mona, UT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 466-6411

    "This canyon offers different hiking trails and camping sites, with picnic tables."

    "Pretty country, not too far from Salt Lake City... A small stream running through the area (in August!)... But small and right off the road... A picnic table and fire ring... Lovely trees..."

    6. Bear Canyon

    2 Reviews
    Mona, UT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 798-3571

    $143 / night

    "It also has individual sites but you must park your car and walk in to your campsite.

    There are flush toilets and the bathrooms are well kept."

    8. Maple Lake Campground

    5 Reviews
    Elk Ridge, UT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (385) 273-1100

    $26 - $29 / night

    "Unreal location, and the lake is beautiful."

    9. Maple Canyon

    12 Reviews
    Fountain Green, UT
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 283-4151

    $40 / night

    "You are WALKING distance from sport climbs of all grades.

    Verizon service just outside the campground, where the pavement ends we parked at a turnout."

    "There are a lot of campsites and all are right next to climbing areas. The maple leaves in the fall are fantastic."

    10. Uinta National Forest Blackhawk Campground

    5 Reviews
    Elk Ridge, UT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 798-3571

    "Access to lots of pretty places to run around and explore. Great places for kids to play. Lots of tall pine trees. I definitely recommend!"

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Recent Reviews near Mona, UT

797 Reviews of 206 Mona Campgrounds


  • Marasha L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Hobble Right Fork Dispersed

    Solid Spot

    Th little nook at the top of the fork provides nice privacy, so felt lucky timing afforded it to me, but ample pull offs along the way ensured there would have been a spot to park. Very busy all along the forest road, though. Lots of cows (and thus manure to drive through some beware if you’re headed toward areas with flies, etc.) The leaves were changing and it was brilliant.

  • a
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Willow Park Campground

    Easy to get to, next to River

    We were able to get a spot next to the Jordan River under a beautiful tree. We brought our 16ft camper and didn’t need to back it in or anything. Spot was decently clean except for a leftover watermelon (which the kids gave to a family of ducks that visited the next morning.)

    Nighttime was quiet after about 10pm. Crickets and some frogs serenaded most of the night. No neighbors on a Thursday night.

    Stunning sunrise—perfect views of Mt. Timp.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Aspen Grove (uinta-wasatch-cache National Forest, Ut)

    Very Nice

    The campground is nice, we stayed in 16 which is at the upper end. No traffic noise other than people going to and from the private property behind. Gold medal fishing water below the dam.

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Spanish Oaks Campground

    Spanish Fork campsite with view

    Up in the hills, Spanish Oaks campground is not a typical campground. It’s close to a suburban area and there is active development of homes in the immediate area. It’s a very convenient location if you are passing through the area..

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    Easy drive and beautiful view

    EDIT: Okay I lied. The bugs have infiltrated my tent. I don’t even know how but they have. I can hear the rest of them outside trying to find a way in. I didn’t even have any lights on. I’m scared and itchy and I hate bugs. Come here to watch the sunset and leave.

    The sites are trashed. I think people live here full time. You can hear generators running at night and occasional gunshots in the distance (shooting range). There’s giant fly swarms all over that you hear buzzing all night. There’s little to no privacy. I should really give it two or three stars but DAMN is it beautiful. Great sunrise and sunset spot right on the water with the mountains in front and behind you. Plenty of spots you can get to with 2WD. I didn’t venture up the hill because it seems a little more unlikely I’d make it, but like I said, plenty of other spots.

  • Allisson G.
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Uinta National Forest Hope Campground

    Great views, lots of Yellowjacket’s

    The yellowjackets were pretty annoying to deal with until after dusk and they’re right back out as soon as it’s light. My husband and I camped at an overlook spot about a mile north of this campground and it was an amazing view, little car activity but lots of yellowjackets. I’d recommend bringing a trap and wear peppermint essential oil to deter

  • Taylor K.
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Tinney Flat

    Great spot!

    There is a sign on the way up that says no dispersed camping, but that’s just for a specific area. A little ways past that it switches back to free dispersed. Nice quiet spot with hardly anyone else! Cute stream and mountain bike track on the way up too.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Lakeside RV Campground

    Nice quiet park

    Friendly staff nice level sites pull through FHU grassy spot between sites.

  • Doug B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Spanish Oaks Campground

    Great views

    Great campground with nice views. Fun mbt trails..and easy access to paved Spanish Fork river trail.


Guide to Mona

Camping near Mona, Utah, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Water Sports: Enjoy activities like fishing and boating at Hailstone - Upper Fisher Campground — Jordanelle State Park. One reviewer mentioned, "Clean campground with access to water sports, and very close to Park City."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Granite Flat. A visitor noted, "The drive and location is beautiful. The campground is large and there is a lot of privacy."
  • Astrophotography: If you’re into stargazing, Hailstone - Upper Fisher Campground is a great spot. One camper shared, "Jordanelle State Park is a good place to go for astrophotography if you don't have 4 hours to drive out of the city."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A review for Granite Flat stated, "Bathrooms are clean. No complaints other than the showers could use some cleaning and work on their drainage."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds, like Nunns Park, offer roomy sites. One visitor said, "Camp spots are snug but do the job. Love the shade and scenic views."
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often mention the welcoming vibe. A review for Castle Gate RV Park highlighted, "The staff was amazing, warm, and friendly; the views were beautiful."

What you should know:

  • Road Noise: Some campgrounds, like Nunns Park, are close to highways, which can be noisy. A camper noted, "Hwy traffic noise is louder near sites 11,12."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For instance, Ken's Lake Campground lacks drinking water and showers. One reviewer mentioned, "The lake is beautiful and you can actually swim in it."
  • Reservation Challenges: Some sites can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Granite Flat warned, "Can get busy and hard to get reservations."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Mountain Valley RV Resort, which has amenities like pools and playgrounds. A parent shared, "The kids enjoyed their time at the playground and splash pad."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities lined up. One family at Yuba Campground enjoyed the lake, saying, "Clean bathrooms with nice showers for rinsing off after splashing in the lake all day."
  • Pack Snacks and Games: Keep the kids entertained with snacks and games. A camper at Spruces - Big Cottonwood mentioned, "Good hammock trees" for relaxing while the kids play.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Castle Gate RV Park noted, "Large sites with plenty of room between sites."
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Some areas can get windy, especially at night. A visitor at Yuba Campground mentioned, "Super windy at night, not sure if it’s the time of year or the norm."
  • Utilize Online Reservations: Many campgrounds allow online check-ins, which can save time. A camper at Hailstone - Upper Fisher Campground appreciated the ease of checking in with a QR code.

Camping near Mona, Utah, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Make sure to explore the local campgrounds and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Mona Lake camping areas?

Camping areas around Mona Lake (Reservoir) offer limited amenities. The most developed option is Jones High Country RV Park near Nephi, which provides water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly. For those seeking basic facilities, Miner's Canyon Dispersed offers lakeside sites but lacks formal amenities and sometimes has trash issues. Most camping around Mona is primitive, so campers should bring their own water, portable toilets, and pack-out trash systems. Cell service is generally available but can be spotty depending on your location. Fire rings are typically present at established sites, though fire restrictions may apply during dry seasons.

What fishing opportunities are available at Mona Reservoir?

Mona Reservoir offers good fishing opportunities, particularly for perch, rainbow trout, walleye, and channel catfish. While not Utah's premier fishing destination, it provides a convenient option for anglers in Utah County. For a more reliable fishing experience near the area, consider Payson Lakes which is known as a great fishery especially for children and youth. Alternatively, Yuba State Park with its Oasis Campground provides access to Yuba Reservoir which offers better fishing conditions. The best fishing at Mona is typically in spring and fall when water temperatures are moderate. Shore fishing is accessible, but a small boat provides better access to productive areas.

Where can I camp at Mona Reservoir in Utah?

For camping at Mona Reservoir, consider Rollin Home RV Park which provides convenient access to the reservoir with drive-in sites. Another option is dispersed camping at Nebo Loop Road Dispersed Camping in the nearby area. If you're looking for established campgrounds close to Mona, Cottonwood Campground outside of Nephi is a free option, though it's more basic with just one pit toilet. Most camping around Mona Reservoir is primitive, so come prepared with all necessary supplies including water. The area is especially popular with ATV enthusiasts and anglers.