Camping opportunities around Mount Pleasant, Utah range from established campgrounds to dispersed backcountry sites. The Manti-La Sal KOA in Mount Pleasant provides full hookups for RVs and cabins, while Heritage Grove Campground offers cabin options and tent sites. Several National Forest campgrounds like Maple Canyon and Potters Pond Campground in Manti-LaSal National Forest provide more rustic camping experiences. Many locations sit near reservoirs and mountain terrain, giving campers access to fishing, climbing, and off-road trails.
Seasonal considerations play a major role in camping access throughout the region. Most campgrounds operate from late May through October, with higher elevation sites often inaccessible until July due to snow. "We were here in late October after a little snow so the place was empty. Even with no host the area was very clean, pit toilets were open and stocked with TP," noted one visitor about Maple Canyon. The dirt access roads to many sites can be challenging, particularly when wet or for larger RVs and trailers. Campers should pack extra water and supplies, as many Forest Service campgrounds lack potable water or trash facilities. Cell service is limited or nonexistent at most sites away from towns.
The area's campgrounds receive consistently positive reviews for their scenery and recreational access. Maple Canyon stands out for climbers with its unique conglomerate rock walls accessible directly from campsites. Potters Pond Campground, situated above 9,000 feet elevation, offers cooler summer temperatures and access to fishing opportunities. According to feedback, "If you are looking for solitude and nature, this is the place to go!" Lake Canyon Recreation Area provides opportunities for kayaking and fishing at nearby reservoirs. While some campgrounds like Heritage Grove offer amenities including showers and drinking water, many sites are primitive with only vault toilets. Travelers seeking traditional camping experiences appreciate the distance between sites at Forest Service campgrounds, though private facilities tend to place sites closer together.
$50 - $300 / night
"Not too far off the highway and I felt like I was up deep in the mountains. This park is beyond pretty. Staff was great. All around great visit."
"The only reason I did not give it 5 stars is because some of the sites aren't level and are pretty close to each other. I had to use 3 yellow square leveling blocks on the left side."
$10 - $20 / 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."
$25 - $45 / night
"Campgrounds face the main area where cars drive so they’re not very private, but that wasn’t a problem for us."
$10 - $40 / night
"We were blown away at how tranquil and beautiful the surroundings are at Potters Pond Campground. The abundant trees and brush truly make one feel like they are a million miles away from home."
"The campground is right on a main access road for OHV’s to drive up to Skyline Drive which is good if that’s what you are there for."
$15 - $60 / night
"The views are beautiful and it’s great camping, four wheeling, and fishing at the many nearby reservoirs. You can even take Miller Flat Road all the way down to Joe’s Valley."
$30 - $50 / night
"Potters ponds are a short drive and offer trout fishing. There are hiking trails; East Mountain Trail and Spoon Creek Spur Trail just north of the campground."
"Tons of Utv, Atv trails. Wildlife in abundance."
$10 - $18 / night
"Weren’t too many campers around. Lots of trees for shade. Lake is drying up and looks a bit sad."
"Right near the reservoir, I had a freat, secluded time, while in between bouldering seasion. Will visit again but will camp roght outside park with the other renegades"
"It is RIGHT next to a mountain bike trail, so expect some early-morning bikers to be coming down. Overall, it was a great place to camp."
"Campsite I stayed at/the drive up is amazing during sunset"
$10 - $40 / night
"Super close to the lake which I loved. Great fishing and water activities you can do"
"It’s located just 5 minutes from the lake, which can be seen down the hill to the north. In the early morning deer frequent the meadow between the sites and the lake."
TravelerJust few miles away from the interstate. Closer sites can hear some traffic. We went down a little ways and didn’t hear the road. Road would be awful if it rains- be aware!
GuideAs an outdoor enthusiast and an aspiring photographer, this is definitely one of the best camping spots I've been to yet. I absolutely love this spot.
The spot is right off the highway, so you can hear and see the highway depending on how far back you go, but it's mostly white noise for those who don't mind.
The road is in pretty good condition with a few potholes; it's a mix of gravel and dirt, but mostly gravel. Do be careful about driving in if it's rained or snowed; the clearings where you camp are mainly dirt and grass, pretty level, but the ground can get very soft.
Mountains surround you; the views are incredible. This is a wildlife management area, so do expect wildlife. I didn't see any except birds, but there are plenty of cow, deer, and elk signs and game trails.
I'll let the pictures do the rest...
GuideThere are no water hookups at sites but water throughout the area. Also had dump station & dumpsters. Lots of trails for side by sides, dirt bikes, & 4wheelers.
LegendLooked like I'd be camping right on a lake, instead it was a dry lake bed.
Kind of fun to walk around and explore. I'm sure it's beautiful when the lake is full.
RangerNice area on the way to Provo. There are some pullouts along the dirt road. I only drove about 3miles. There is a wonderful creek next to the road. I would stay longer but there's rain and snow in the forecast. Zero amenities, so come prepared. Don't be a loser and leave trash. Leave nothing but foot prints and take plenty of memories
TravelerCleaned bathrooms, only has 1 bar of Verizon coverage, with weBoost, no problem
TravelerCame here to work then ride. But there were fire pits. There is just one in the spot but I saw more while riding the trails.
TravelerThis is a rest stop. It's great. There is a dog park. Water to hook up to for a fill. There are a ton of picnic tables and a paved walking path through an outdoor educational museum. bathroom too. Perfect for an in between salt lake and Moab.
GuideIt was right off a rural road that was actually quite busy. They are absolutely no services so be prepared to be tostlkyvoff grid. No cell service which a bit scary if something were to happen and you needed help. You have drive down about 6/8 miles to get cell service. It was a beautiful area though.
Camping opportunities around Mount Pleasant, Utah provide experiences across diverse elevations, from 5,000 to 9,000+ feet. The area features numerous dispersed camping options throughout Manti-La Sal National Forest alongside established campgrounds. Weather changes quickly in this region, with summer thunderstorms common and early fall snow possible at higher elevations.
Climbing conglomerate rock walls: Maple Canyon offers unique climbing experiences with routes suitable for various skill levels. "You are WALKING distance from sport climbs of all grades," notes one visitor to Maple Canyon. The canyon's distinctive conglomerate rock formations provide exceptional climbing opportunities year-round, though fall is particularly popular.
Fishing at high-elevation reservoirs: Located at 9,000 feet elevation, Potters Pond Campground provides access to stocked fishing ponds. "The ponds are great for kayaks, paddle boards, and fishing," according to one camper. The cooler temperatures make this an ideal summer retreat when lower elevations become hot.
OHV trail access: The extensive trail network around Mount Pleasant provides hundreds of miles of off-road terrain. "We were able to ride our side by side from this location right onto the Arapeen trail. The main office will give you a simple map on how to get there and they also sell the trail maps for $10.50," reports a visitor to Manti-La Sal KOA.
Privacy between campsites: The Forest Service campgrounds often provide more space between sites compared to private options. At Lake Canyon Recreation Area, one visitor noted: "The area is spread out yet open enough to feel like everyone has their own space and still together as a group."
Mountain weather refuge: Higher elevation campgrounds provide relief from summer heat. "Due to the elevation it's best to plan to stay here in July or August," advises a regular visitor to Lake Canyon Recreation Area. The 9,000+ foot elevation at some sites keeps temperatures comfortable even during peak summer months.
Clean facilities: Heritage Grove Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Had very clean restrooms and showers. Lots of amenities like a playground and volleyball net," reports one camper. Private campgrounds typically offer more amenities but with less privacy between sites.
Limited services at Forest Service sites: Most national forest campgrounds lack basic services. "The campground does not have any potable water or any services. There are vault toilets spread out throughout the grounds. Also, there are no dumpsters....so what you bring in, you have to take with you," explains a visitor to Potters Pond Campground.
Dirt road access challenges: Many dispersed and established campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. "It is about 8.3 miles of dirt road to the campground from UT 31. The sites are spaced far enough from each other which gives you plenty of room to spread out and relax," notes a camper at Potters Pond.
No cell service at remote sites: Communication becomes limited quickly outside town. "No water and no cell service. Closest cell reception is top of canyon (via hike) or where concrete road ends at mouth of canyon," reports a camper from Maple Canyon.
Look for campgrounds with activities: Some sites offer recreational facilities on-site. Heritage Grove Campground provides "amenities like a playground and volleyball net" according to visitor reviews, making it suitable for families with children needing entertainment options.
Consider reservoir access for water activities: Joes Valley Reservoir offers options for families. "My kids loved the water despite the wind throughout the day. There were a fair amount of people boating, swimming, fishing, kayaking, etc around the shoreline near the marina, but I didn't feel it was too crowded at all," shares one family camper.
Prepare for quick weather changes: At higher elevations, conditions shift rapidly. "Since I was about 3, my family has gone to Joes Valley Reservoir for an extended family reunion! We tend to reserve the entire lower loop for a week in August," explains a regular visitor, noting this timing helps avoid unpredictable weather in earlier summer months.
Check site leveling before setup: Some campgrounds feature uneven sites. "The sites aren't level and are pretty close to each other. I had to use 3 yellow square leveling blocks on the left side," advises an RVer who stayed at Manti-La Sal KOA.
Research road conditions carefully: Access roads to popular sites may present challenges. "Dirt road in, off the hwy, was a bit rutted, but we made it okay in van. Took our chances on a FCFS spot, #8 which looked fairly level but was not," reports a camper about their experience at Maple Canyon.
Reserve early for summer weekends: The best places to camp near Mount Pleasant, Utah fill quickly during peak season. "I've camped at this campground twice now; once in August of 2020 and once in July of 2021. Both times the experience has been good. Before my two visits, I reserved my sites on recreation.gov. This made the experience hassle-free," advises a Joes Valley Reservoir camper.
Frequently Asked Questions
What campgrounds are available in Mount Pleasant?
Mount Pleasant offers several nearby camping options. Manti - La Sal KOA is conveniently located near Mount Pleasant with drive-in access and amenities including water, toilets, and big-rig-friendly sites. For those seeking a more natural setting, Manti-LaSal National Forest Potters Pond Campground provides a tranquil experience with abundant trees and beautiful surroundings. The journey to this campground starts at Millers Flat Road, a dirt road that is generally accessible for most vehicles. Other options in the broader area include Heritage Grove Campground and various dispersed camping opportunities along Skyline Drive.
Are there tent camping options in Mount Pleasant?
Mount Pleasant offers excellent tent camping opportunities. Payson Lakes is a popular option about 45 minutes from Payson, featuring swimming and kayaking opportunities with no motorized boats allowed, making it family-friendly. The campground has large shade trees and is convenient to town. For those seeking free dispersed camping, Wedge Overlook in Utah's San Rafael Swell offers basic sites along the edge of a beautiful canyon carved by the San Rafael River with one vault toilet. Maple Canyon near Ephraim also provides tent-friendly sites with hike-in options and basic facilities including toilets, perfect for those who prefer a more rustic camping experience.
Can I bring my RV to Mount Pleasant camping areas?
Yes, several campgrounds near Mount Pleasant accommodate RVs. Canyon View RV Park offers water and electricity hookups with back-in sites arranged in a parking lot style area. The park includes a dump station on site and provides easy access to bike/walk trails and nearby amenities. Huntington State Park Campground is another option for RV camping in the region, though reviews suggest varying experiences with cleanliness and atmosphere. For larger rigs, Joes Valley Reservoir area offers big-rig-friendly sites. Always check specific site dimensions and amenities when booking, as some campgrounds have limited facilities or uneven parking areas.
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