Uinta National Forest Blackhawk Campground provides equestrian-specific campsites at the highest elevation area of the facility. Horse owners can reserve these dedicated equestrian sites even without horses, making them more readily available than standard camping areas during peak periods. The equestrian area includes hitching posts at every campsite with pavilions, fire pits and pit toilets nearby. The campground creates natural separation between standard campsites and the horse-focused areas, minimizing conflicts between different user groups. Loop E is specifically designated for campers with horses, while other loops serve traditional tent and RV camping needs. Sites are positioned to provide privacy and seclusion even during busy holiday weekends.
Riders can access multiple trail networks directly from the campground, which connects to routes throughout the scenic Nebo Loop area. The campground's location provides convenient access to numerous exploration opportunities for equestrians seeking day trips. Horse owners should be aware of the $20 nightly camping fee which includes access to nearby Payson Lakes recreation area. Blackhawk's equestrian sites feature ample space for horse trailers and associated equipment. The campground maintains separation between horse areas and other recreational facilities to accommodate the specific needs of equestrian campers. Regular seasonal availability runs from late May through early September, though periodic closures may affect access. The area surrounding Blackhawk offers extensive opportunities for trail riding through forested mountain terrain with impressive views of the surrounding landscape.
"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."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $28 - $272 / night
"Unreal location, and the lake is beautiful."
from $26 / night
"we booked equestrian sites up at the top - highest elevation. Good views, pavilions, fire pits and pit toilets."
"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!"
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when available"But this is Utah in the heat... Bring your own air conditioning. We are here mid-week. It is very quiet and peaceful except for the occasional train."
"Better for RVs and self contained vans as there were no amenities or even privacy, it was still large enough that we had plenty of distance between us and any other parties."
"There is a sign on the highway Sheep Creek. This is open range so you might see some cattle. I am sure you will see some cow patties so watch your step."
"The only bad part about this camp site is all the highway noise. It is close to the Provo river and there is lots of shade so that is nice. Great place to have a camp fire and cook some S'mores. "
"A clean, nice, convenient getaway just under 15 minutes outside the city. This served as a great stop for our road trip where we were able to camp 10-steps away from the river, and it was ."
"Fun campground with a discovery walking nature trail. Dry camping with easy river/creek access. Stayed in loop A - lots of trees, birds and insects. Clean and close to the Salt Lake Valley."
"We were close to the river though and the kids had fun playing in it. There are no fish in this river, which was unfortunate since I was hoping to do a little fishing."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $27 - $313 / night
"Tucked in very back. Long ways to walk from car. Water spout next to car area. Will be sharing parking with 2 other sites. 2 lakes nearby. Fire pit with grill gate. Shaded area."
"Utah is such an amazing place to visit for the outdoors. My family and I come here once a year because we love hiking and being in the outdoors."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $27 - $355 / night
"Nice campground in Utah County. Not far from town and any services that could be needed. Lots of hiking available, although a bit rocky and steep for my old knees."
"Here are some of the things we loved about staying here:
- Great hiking- the hiking around this area was amazing. We absolutely enjoyed these trails."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $27 - $540 / night
GuideNice spot in the mountains with some trees. We have done a family reunion here a few times. The ponds are decent with some ok fish. Most anyone could catch some fish at them. A lot of roads and trails to go riding OHV's. Saw a moose one year.
GuideLots of space, not too busy, beautiful view in the morning
GuideI don’t know why the alert states it’s closed till 2027 but that’s not true. All paved, easy access. Pit toilets and drinking fountains. Sites are too small for huge motorhomes- we fit our 33 foot trailer but had to park the truck down by the toilets, and backing in was fine in our spot but they’re not all as wide of an angle. Site was level, toilets clean. Fountains everywhere but for filling jugs only. A million little trails everywhere. The reservoir is right next to camp and the people there are very annoying, loud, and leave trash. The trails were much more peaceful.
ScoutThis campground has trees of fur trees, spruce trees, mountain ash, Hemlock, and some scrub Oak. It’s a beautiful campground, well shaded, and some wildlife mostly deer and some moose.
ScoutWe had a wonderful time! It was cooler up behind Timp than in the valley. Our site was shaded all day. The camp host, Sarah, was amazing! She went above and beyond for everyone! We were there from Sunday to Friday and the camp ground was quiet and peaceful! Our 20 foot trailer fit very nicely. Only drawback was no drinking water. We had to have bottled water for everything. We were sorry to have to leave!
GuideWe camp in this area every July. Lots of good hikes, place to ride ATV and motorcycles. Even can get a little fishing in at Silver Lake. Best to reserve a spot in advance.
GuideA clean, nice, convenient getaway just under 15 minutes outside the city. This served as a great stop for our road trip where we were able to camp 10-steps away from the river, and it was . Due to the fires and wind no campfires were allowed during our stay, but they do have pits. The reviews about the road noise are valid, but being at site #8 we were lucky enough to have the sound of the river balance it out. The spots alongside the river are relatively small and although we were able to fit our 4-person tent there, it seemed like a better spot for someone with a little camper van.
TravelerFun campground with a discovery walking nature trail. Dry camping with easy river/creek access. Stayed in loop A - lots of trees, birds and insects. Clean and close to the Salt Lake Valley. Fun place to camp with family. Limited cell service, clean vault toilets, great fire rings, picnic tables.
TravelerCleanest vault toilets. Nice trees area right by the water and a short walk to bridal veil falls. Tactic noise in the morning was louder than I’d expected. If you are in a tent site 6 has a little path down to the creek, otherwise it’s just a couple feet of plants and then you are there.
Equestrian camping near Mona, Utah offers multiple trail networks accessible from developed campgrounds within the Uinta National Forest. Located in Utah County at elevations between 5,500-7,000 feet, the area experiences moderate summer temperatures ranging from 75-85°F during the day and 45-55°F at night. The camping season typically runs from late May through early September with periodic closures affecting accessibility.
Trail riding opportunities: Riders accessing Uinta National Forest Blackhawk Campground can explore multiple trail networks throughout the scenic Nebo Loop. "Such a beautiful campground! Very private and not crowded, even during the busiest weekends. Access to lots of pretty places to run around and explore," notes Sage H.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Visit Payson Lakes for family-friendly fishing opportunities. "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," shares James B. The lake is approximately 45 minutes from Payson and features non-motorized boating activities.
Hiking accessible trails: The area offers trails suitable for various skill levels. At Whiting Campground, you can access several routes. "We did a hike that about 10 miles roundtrip with low elevation gain. We also did a hike that was 5 miles round trip, and 4 miles round trip. The views were incredible," says Analia F.
Proximity to water features: Many camping areas offer direct access to lakes or streams. At Maple Lake Campground, "Absolutely beautiful setting. Lots of trees if you want to hammock. Plenty of space for tents too. Unreal location, and the lake is beautiful," according to Jeremy W.
Spacious sites with privacy: Campgrounds in the region often provide adequate separation between sites. "This is one of my favorite spots. Lots of trees with large sites spaced apart," says Tanner S. about Maple Lake Campground, making it ideal for campers seeking some separation from neighboring sites.
Family-friendly environment: The campgrounds cater well to families with children. At Payson Lakes, "The campground was super pretty" according to Paige J., though she notes the sites were close together. Another camper reports, "Great campground. Bathrooms and drinking water available. Lots of shade. Easy walk to the lake. Great fishing. Very fun for kids."
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking during peak season. At Granite Flat, "Book EARLY! This campsite is always full," warns Andrea P. Weekend reservations for summer months often fill by late May.
Campsite fees and amenities: Prices vary by location, typically $20-25 per night. "One night is $23 and an additional vehicle is $8," notes Shantelle P. regarding Payson Lakes. Facilities generally include pit toilets, fire rings, and some drinking water sources, though amenities vary significantly by location.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally. Diamond Campground runs "early May-mid Oct" while Whiting Campground operates "May 18 to September 23." Weather conditions can affect these dates, with some locations closing earlier or opening later depending on snowpack and conditions.
Campground selection criteria: Choose locations with appropriate facilities for children. "Great campground. Campsite was clean and well taken care of" mentions Whitney J. about Granite Flat, which offers larger group areas suitable for family gatherings.
Activity planning for children: Consider campgrounds with built-in recreational opportunities. At Spanish Fork River Park, "Great open area with plenty of space. Great for kids and dogs and close to the highway," notes Catherine S., making it convenient for shorter trips with younger children.
Safety considerations: Be aware of natural hazards when camping with children. "The nice part about the wind is it keeps the bugs away," mentions one camper about Sheep Creek, highlighting the importance of considering insects and weather patterns when planning family camping trips.
Site selection for larger vehicles: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs comfortably. At Diamond Campground, "All driveways and roads up to and around camp were paved. We have a 31 ft class A motor home and we navigated around easily," reports Monica W., noting the accessibility for larger recreational vehicles.
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds in the area offer limited hookups. "We booked a spot for our RV. Nice, wide spots, all on grass. A firepit and a grill," shares Merel J. about Spanish Fork River Park, though noting road noise can be an issue for light sleepers.
Seasonal considerations: RV campers should be mindful of weather patterns. "This campground was nice. We were in loop B which lacked trees so it got hot during the day," notes Preston G. about Diamond Campground, highlighting the importance of securing shaded sites during summer months if possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Mona, UT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Mona, UT is Payson Lakes with a 4.3-star rating from 17 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Mona, UT?
TheDyrt.com has all 19 equestrian camping locations near Mona, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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