Uinta National Forest Blackhawk Campground maintains equestrian sites at its highest elevation points with excellent views. The upper loop accommodates horse owners with spacious sites that include pavilions and fire pits. While horses aren't required to reserve these equestrian-designated areas, they typically remain more available than standard sites during peak seasons. The campground provides access to multiple trails within the Nebo Loop scenic area, offering secluded camping with good privacy between sites. Pit toilets serve the campground, and the sites remain particularly quiet even during busy weekends. The equestrian loop contains hitching posts at every site, making it practical for those traveling with horses while less ideal for those with dogs due to the prevalence of horses in the immediate area.
Located along the Mount Nebo Scenic Byway, horseback riders can access numerous trails directly from the campground. The surrounding pine forests offer shade during summer months when temperatures frequently reach 90 degrees. Camping fees run approximately $20 per night, which also covers access to Payson Lakes recreation area. Seasonal availability typically extends from late May through early September, though occasional closures affect access. Very private and secluded conditions characterize the equestrian camping experience, with natural barriers between sites enhancing the sense of solitude. Riders appreciate the proximity to forest service roads and trail connections that provide extended riding opportunities throughout the Uinta National Forest. The horse-friendly sites should be reserved well in advance during summer weekends as they remain popular despite being less known than standard camping areas.
$27 - $270 / night
"Located in National Forest at 8,000 ft with lots of sites, many of them pull through with fire rings."
"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. "
"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!"
$26 / night
"Unreal location, and the lake is beautiful."
"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."
"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."
"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. "
"Close in to town, very pretty with Provo river next to it. Bike path and highway noise can be distracting."
$27 - $313 / night
"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."
$25 - $175 / night
"This campground was nestled in the middle of Lehi Utah and it was a great place for us to swing in for one night."
"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."
$27 - $540 / 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."
GuideBlackhawk is great if you can’t find reservations elsewhere. we booked equestrian sites up at the top - highest elevation. Good views, pavilions, fire pits and pit toilets. Don’t have to have horses to book equestrian and they seem to be more available since I don’t think people k ow this.
TravelerLocated in National Forest at 8,000 ft with lots of sites, many of them pull through with fire rings. Lots of trees for privacy and, when we were there 8/25 - 8/27, were the only ones other than the camp hosts. Brought bikes and there were ample riding areas. A couple miles up the hill at 9,000 ft the views are truly spectacular. Continuing over the 38 mile scenic highway is well worth the drive with sheer drop offs demanding full attention ending in Nephi.
GuideFREE! No amenities! Must carry in all water. Shooting Range nearby. Great for ATVs and off road vehicles. Hiking is easy to moderate in abilty. Fire ring established in most common camp areas. Animals allowed. Close to Utah Lake.
GuideIt's not great. Next to a shooting range and orv trails, so you'll hear that. Shrubs and a few small trees dominate the landscape, so there isn't much privacy. Roads were bumpy, but manageable. Access depends on where you go, Several paths to take w other sites. Lots of trash. Rock fire pits. Amazing views of the mountains behind Provo and Utah Lake. Full cell service w At&t. Free!
LegendWe 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 journey to the campground starts at Millers Flat Road which is a dirt road that is for the most part well groomed/maintained. It is very bumpy, but can be done with most vehicles. We were towing our 24' TT so we were going slow. 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. The short walk to the pond is easy and you will appreciate the stillness of the water. Most people were either fishing or enjoying the pond on a row boat. Not 100% sure if the pond is okay to swim in as there are no signage and the presence of blue algae is apparent. Potters Pond is part of the USDA national forest and is wide open and plenty of trails to hike/bike. The campground is adjacent to the Appain Trails where one has access to 300+ miles of off-road enjoyment.
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. The campground is situated above 9000ft elevation so the days are mild warm and the nights can be cool to cold. If you're looking for solitude and nature, this is the place to go!
ScoutI would reserve a spot ahead of time, avoiding any site in loop 'E'. That loop is for those planning to camp with horses. There are hitching posts at every site, therefore, lots of horse poo. And not the best place to take a dog because of all the horses in the area.
The camp host at loop 'E' and 'D' is very nice, and is willing to split up group areas to individuals who have no where else to set up camp. If you do this, expect to get to know new people as you will share a fire pit and eating area.
The fee to camp for one night is $20, but that includes access to any of the Payson lakes, which is $8 for day use.
We didn't go on any hikes during our stay, as we bummed at the beautiful lakes (only the middle of the three lakes is dog friendly) all day. However, there is plenty of hiking in the area.
Very hot. Around 90 degrees. Wake up and get breakfast early. Then enjoy the water in the heat!
P.S. 3 stars due to the fact that I had to camp in horse crap.
ScoutBeing 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.
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. Also the lake isn't too big so if your teen blows across the lake on his kayak or raft he can easily walk it back around the lake.
We definitely recommend it.
ScoutNice big shade trees. Close to town. On the website it says atv’s need to be registered in Utah so I understood you can ride there. I was wrong you can’t have atv’s in the campground.
LegendThis is a great place to pitch a tent or come up and stay for the day. 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. The bike path is close so bring your long board or bike and go for a ride. This is withing walking distance from Bridal Vail Falls so that is a great day hike and see the falls. Also great fly fishing in the Provo river so do yourself a favor and bring your fishing gear.
The Uinta National Forest near Nephi, Utah offers equestrian camping across multiple campgrounds with elevations ranging from 5,500 to 9,000 feet. Summer temperatures in this region typically reach the mid-80s during the day with cooler evenings in the 50s. Trail access varies by campground with some offering direct connections to forest service roads while others require short drives to trailheads.
Hiking nearby Payson Lakes: Located about 45 minutes from Nephi, Payson Lakes recreation area offers several hiking trails including the Grotto trail. "It was pretty full when we got here(it was a holiday weekend) but we off roaded a little bit and found a beautiful little haven... Highly suggest coming here and hike the grotto because it's a short hike and so close to the Payson Lakes campground," notes Veronica S.
Fishing for beginners: The nearby lakes provide excellent fishing opportunities for families. "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. about Payson Lakes.
Explore Maple Canyon: Head to Whiting Campground for access to multiple trails with varied difficulty. "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," reports Analia F. at Uinta National Forest Whiting Campground.
Private camping spots: The area offers several secluded camping options. "My favorite thing is how secluded it is. Definitely would recommend," says Becky J. about Blackhawk Horse Camp, one of the premier horse campgrounds near Nephi, Utah.
Mountain views and weather: Camping at higher elevations provides cooler temperatures and scenic views. "This is one of my favorite summer get away spots. Lots of fish in the lake, great bike trails and amazing views all around. With it being a 15 minute drive from Payson makes for a great time," says Brad B. about Payson Lakes.
Sunrise viewing: Campsites near lakes offer spectacular morning views. "The sunrise is spectacular, especially when you wait for it out by the lake! It's a wonderful place and is family friendly! 10/10, would camp again," shares Stephanie R.
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds in the area have unexpected closures. "Was unable to get in, this whole area was under closure. No for sure for how long. It wasn't a normal seasonal closure. Cuz all the areas around it are opened," reports Jeff H. about Blackhawk Horse Camp.
Toilet availability: Restroom facilities vary by campground. "Pit toilets are well maintained," notes connie C. about Whiting Campground, while some dispersed camping areas like Sheep Creek have no facilities at all.
Campsite reservations: During peak seasons, reservations are essential. "Great campground. Popular and crowded. Should reserve well in advance or get there early for the walk-in sites," advises David C.
Lake activities for kids: Several campgrounds offer safe water recreation. "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... Also the lake isn't too big so if your teen blows across the lake on his kayak or raft he can easily walk it back around the lake," shares James B.
Playgrounds and facilities: Some campgrounds offer additional recreation options. "Great campground. Bathrooms and drinking water available. Lots of shade. Easy walk to the lake. Great fishing. Very fun for kids," says Courtney S. about Payson Lakes.
Spacious sites for multiple tents: Larger family groups should look for campgrounds with ample space. "Loved that the spaces were big enough to fit our truck and 2 tents," notes Analia F. about Whiting Campground.
Level sites with concrete pads: Whiting Campground offers well-maintained RV spots. "Campsites are concrete with tables and firepits, very clean. Pit toilets are well maintained," says connie C.
Overnight spots near highways: For travelers just passing through, consider areas like Sheep Creek. "Plenty of space for any camper, tents to fifth wheels. The night I camped 9/20/25 there were about a dozen vehicles," notes Robert C. about Sheep Creek, one of the accessible horse campgrounds near Nephi, Utah.
Campsite sizing confusion: Be aware that site sizes might not be clearly marked. "First, their normal campsites are really small. We'd actually accidentally set up residence in a double spot without knowing it. So that was unexpected, given the spots are kind of pricey already (normally it's $23/night, but the doubles were $46/night)," warns Sheila M. about camping at Payson Lakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Nephi, UT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Nephi, UT is Payson Lakes with a 4.3-star rating from 17 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 14 equestrian camping locations near Nephi, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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