Cabin camping near Neola, Utah offers options ranging from rustic forest service facilities to more developed accommodations with modern amenities. Located in the Ashley National Forest at approximately 7,000 feet elevation, the area experiences warm summer days with cool evenings and occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Winter brings heavy snowfall, limiting cabin access from late fall through early spring.
What to do
Fishing at local lakes: Moon Lake Campground provides direct lake access for fishing with rentals available. "We love to rent a boat and go fishing(we use the little gold and silver jakes fish hooks) and then we serve them up over the campfire," notes a camper who visits annually at Moon Lake Campground.
Water activities in summer: The reservoirs offer multiple water recreation options. "The water is refreshing to swim, water ski, paddle board or any water sport. Lots of fish in the lake and craw fish," explains a visitor at Indian Bay Campground.
Hiking nearby trails: Several hiking paths surround the cabin areas. "There are many walking trails and atv trails accessible from this campground," states a reviewer about the trails at Steinaker State Park.
Dinosaur tracks exploration: A unique local attraction involves kayaking to prehistoric sites. "Our absolute favorite part of this campground is the ability to rent kayaks and kayak over to see the dinosaur footprints. This was our first time seeing anything of the like, and it absolutely blew our minds," shares a camper at Red Fleet State Park Campground.
What campers like
Privacy at select sites: Some cabin locations offer more seclusion than others. "Some sites are close but others are set alone for privacy. Short hilly walk to the lake depending on which site your in," explains a reviewer at Steinaker State Park.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain their amenities well. "The camp host did an excellent job of daily cleaning and stocking of the campground," reports a visitor at Moon Lake Campground about the bathrooms and common areas.
Nature observation: Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the region. "We saw several deer throughout the day. There are a few hiking trails and they offer horse rides as well," notes a camper at Moon Lake Group Campground.
Convenience stores: Several locations have small markets for basic needs. "The Moon Lake Lodge has some cabins that you can stay in and they have a nice little store that has some essentials there including ice cream," mentions a recent visitor describing the amenities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking, especially during peak season. "They take reservations so that is your best option," advises an Indian Bay Campground visitor about securing spots during summer months.
Weather considerations: The area experiences significant seasonal changes. "We camped in August and temperatures were in the high 90's, maybe 100 degrees. That made things hot. The nights were great. Clear skies made looking at stars wonderful," shares a camper at Moon Lake.
Insect preparation: Bugs can be problematic in warmer months. "The bugs were pretty bad. Gnats that would bite and leave some pretty big welts. Bring plenty of bug spray," warns a Moon Lake visitor.
Site differences: Cabin and campsite quality varies by location. "The spaces are large, level, and easy to get into. I think they all have electricity and water. They are paved, as are the roadways," describes a camper at Mountain View Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options for children: Several campgrounds offer family-friendly facilities. "The family had a blast. The camping area is all paved and the kids loved riding their bikes all day," shares a Mountain View visitor about their experience with children.
Swimming areas: Designated beach zones provide safer water access. "It's just a short drive down to the water with a beach area," notes a reviewer, though they caution "the water was freezing."
Kid-friendly rentals: Some locations offer recreational equipment specifically for younger visitors. "They also rent 3-wheel cycles for kids to ride up and down terrorizing everyone," mentions a reviewer at KOA Campground Vernal.
Playground facilities: Recreation areas supplement water activities. "Lots of activities for families (pool, play area), small dog area, clean restrooms, staff was very friendly," describes a KOA visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections exist at most developed sites. "Steinaker State Park and Campground is located about five miles north of Vernal, UT. The campground is beautiful, and the campsites vary between desert vegetation, large shady cottonwoods, and sandy beaches."
Site selection guidance: Some RV spots offer better experiences than others. "I was glad I had a back-in site around the edge of the loop. I loved the view. The pull through sites in the middle were super close together that left little room for slide outs and entry/exit from the trailers unless you were in the end."
Dump station locations: Know where services are available. "No sewer available in the site, but they do have a dump station," notes a Mountain View Campground visitor detailing the RV facilities.
