Joes Valley Reservoir area offers camping opportunities in central Utah at an elevation of 6,800 feet. The forested mountain setting sits within Manti-La Sal National Forest, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions with snow limiting access in winter months. Water levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year, affecting shoreline access at campgrounds.
What to do
Bouldering sessions: Joes Valley attracts rock climbing enthusiasts specifically for bouldering. "I had a freat, secluded time, while in between bouldering seasion," notes a visitor at Joes Valley Reservoir.
OHV trail exploration: The extensive trail system includes the Arapeen Trail network. A camper at Joes Valley Campground confirms: "There is no shortage of biking, hiking and riding trails. The campground sits adjacent to the Arapeen Tail which is a network of OHV trails."
Lake activities despite fluctuating levels: Water recreation varies with reservoir levels. "The water was really low. We don't own a boat, so we were shore bound. Lots of rocks and trash on the shores and the sand was like quick sand along the water," warns one Joes Valley Reservoir visitor.
Fishing from shoreline: For anglers without boats, access varies by location. A visitor notes: "It is a bit of a downhill walk to the lake, but worth it given that there are plenty of fish and crawdads to catch for a big fish-fry!"
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Sites at Joes Valley Campground provide adequate space between neighbors. A camper reports: "The campground is clean and well kept. We stayed in site 26. There were trees on both sides of the campsite and there is ample spacing between sites."
Cabin options for non-tent campers: Orange Olsen offers cabin accommodations for those seeking structured shelter. "The Dwelling is large enough to hold a really big family or two couples with small children. The cabin is pretty small but large enough for a family of four. Both have showers, toilet, with running water."
Yurt camping near Orangeville, Utah: For a unique experience, consider the yurt accommodations available at Goblin Valley State Park Campground, about an hour's drive south. While not directly in Orangeville, these yurts provide a distinctive desert glamping option.
Group camping potential: Several campgrounds accommodate larger gatherings. One visitor to Gooseberry Creek Campground shares: "Each site has fire pits and tables, perfect for large group camping. Spigot water is also available for drinking and washing."
What you should know
Pack-out trash requirements: Many campgrounds require you to take all waste with you. "Be prepared to take your trash home because there are no dumpsters," advises a Joes Valley Reservoir camper.
Water access varies by campground: Potable water availability differs between sites. "There are water spigots throughout the campground to fill water containers, but non at the individual sites," notes a Joes Valley camper.
RV and generator noise: Engine noise can affect the camping experience. "It is a bit noisy, however. Everyone has 4-wheelers and most people bring RV's with generators... so expect some noise," warns a camper at Joes Valley Reservoir.
Variable weather conditions: Mountain weather can change rapidly. "When we stayed here it was in the summer and we were the only ones in the whole campground," reports a visitor at Miller Flat-Joes Valley-Huntington Canyon Rec Area, indicating low summer weekday usage.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities for children: Shallow shoreline areas work well for kids. "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early morning offers wildlife sighting possibilities. "In the early morning deer frequent the meadow between the sites and the lake. Even had a few doe right in the sites!"
Family reunion potential: The layout of some campgrounds works well for extended family gatherings. "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."
Easy access campsites: Some locations require no specialized vehicles. At Gooseberry Creek Campground, "Easy access is also another bonus for these sites. You don't need a truck or suv to get there. The average car does just fine."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: Choose sites strategically for more seclusion. "Our site (23) was wide and deep and had lots of trees. We enjoyed the privacy as we couldn't see sites on either side, and we were far enough back that we couldn't see the site across the road."
Consider weekday stays: Weekends fill quickly during peak season. "Based on the reservation placards on the posts, the campground was filling up on Friday," notes an RVer at Blue Cut RV Park.
RV spots with hookups: When full hookups are needed, private parks offer more amenities. "Spots are small. But there are a few larger 5th wheel trails here," reports a Blue Cut RV Park visitor who adds, "Spots leavel to within and inch or two."
Noise considerations: Train and highway noise affects some RV parks. "The trains run 75 yards from camp. And can hear the highway to the west. But Blue Cut is Located on east side of a canyon so cliff wall reflects sound."
