Best Campgrounds near Oak City, UT
Dispersed camping opportunities abound in the Fishlake National Forest surrounding Oak City, Utah, with several free sites located along Whiskey Creek Road and West Fork areas. The region includes both primitive dispersed sites and established campgrounds like Oak Creek Recreation Site, which provides drinking water and toilet facilities. Campers can choose between tent camping in more remote forest locations or opt for developed sites at Yuba State Park, where cabins and RV hookups are available approximately 15 miles from Oak City.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the area, with many dispersed sites requiring travel on dirt roads that may become difficult after rain. "It's never full and rarely has any people. There are lots of 4-wheeling trails and a nice waterfall nearby," noted one camper about the Manti Community area. Most dispersed camping in Fishlake National Forest permits stays up to 14 days, though no services are provided at these locations. Summer temperatures can reach the 90s, while spring and fall offer milder conditions. Cell service is limited in canyon areas and higher elevations, with better connectivity near Yuba State Park and major highways.
The camping experience varies dramatically between the developed and dispersed options. Fishlake National Forest sites provide a more secluded experience, with one visitor describing Oak Creek Recreation Area as "a hidden gem" and "the best kept secret in western Utah for camping." These forest sites offer proximity to streams and hiking trails. In contrast, Yuba State Park campgrounds feature amenities like showers, picnic tables with shade structures, and easy lake access. Several campers mentioned the quality of facilities at Yuba, with one noting "clean bathrooms with nice showers for rinsing off after splashing in the lake all day." Wind can be significant in open areas, particularly at sites near Vernon Reservoir, where one camper reported that "the wind picks up a bit too, and will blow you away."
