Campsites near Salina, Utah range in elevation from 5,000 feet in the valley to over 8,000 feet in nearby mountain areas, creating significant temperature variations throughout the camping season. The region sits at a geographic crossroads where the Colorado Plateau meets the Great Basin, resulting in diverse plant communities from juniper woodlands to high-elevation aspen groves. Many dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain when dirt roads become rutted.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: The area around Richfield has numerous OHV and mountain biking trails accessible from campsites. A reviewer at Richfield KOA noted, "Great campground in Richfield with a lot of great OHV trails and mountain bike trails nearby."
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing in stocked streams and small lakes. At Maple Grove, a camper mentioned, "The small creek that runs through the campground is stocked with fish multiple times per year."
Hot springs soaking: For a unique experience, the Mystic Hot Springs offers 24-hour access to mineral pools. A visitor shared, "Great water, unique tubs built into the side of springs, crazy painted buses or old cabins to stay in."
Hiking exploration: Many camping areas have hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. Near Mountain Mecca, a camper reported, "Beautiful scenery and just right outside of town. Very easy to access for most... Great for mountain biking."
What campers like
Scenic diversity: The terrain transitions from red rock formations to forested mountain slopes. At Maple Grove Campground, a visitor commented, "Tucked up against red rock cliffs, a forest with maple trees in the desert. This spot is just off hwy 50 (paved all the way) so it makes a great stop."
Privacy at dispersed sites: Free camping areas offer seclusion not found at established campgrounds. A Fish Lake National Forest camper shared, "I passed several occupied sites but found a gorgeous pull through with beautiful views. Minor I70 noise, had cell service- T-Mobile. Private, only had 3 cars drive by in 18 hours."
Golf course access: Some camping areas provide convenient access to recreational facilities. At Palisade State Park Campground, a reviewer noted, "There is a great golf course right next to the lake/campground. The restaurant at the golf club has really good food."
Water features: Creeks and small lakes enhance many camping experiences in this desert region. According to a Palisade visitor, "Great rec area including a playground. Bathrooms well maintained and pedal boat and other boat rentals. Plenty of fish to catch off the shore or in a boat."
What you should know
Campsite spacing varies significantly: Some established campgrounds have tight sites while others offer more room. At Fillmore KOA, a camper observed, "Spaces are level and have a nice, grassy area between sites with a picnic bench & fire pit."
Seasonal closures affect planning: Most campgrounds operate on limited schedules. The Fillmore KOA operates "Mar 1 to Nov 30," while the Richfield KOA is open "March 1 to October 31."
Road conditions can be challenging: Some dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles. At Mountain Mecca, a visitor warned, "Road goes up past water tower and recommends using 4wd to come up to prevent washboard, but any vehicle with awe would do."
Weekday vs. weekend crowds: Popular sites fill quickly during peak times. A camper at Maple Grove observed, "It can be a bit crowded on weekends, but very quiet during the week."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with recreational amenities: Some sites offer activities specifically for children. A Palisade State Park visitor mentioned, "We really love the lake and all the little trails we could mountain bike on! Good place for families or big groups to come to!"
Consider noise levels: Family-friendly campgrounds tend to be quieter and more controlled. At Fillmore KOA, a camper noted, "The campground and facilities are very clean and well maintained. The camp hosts and staff are very friendly."
Access to water features: Kids appreciate streams and lakes for entertainment. A Maple Grove camper shared, "This is one of my favorite hidden little campgrounds, although it is only open seasonally. The small creek that runs through the campground is stocked with fish multiple times per year."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy seeing animals around camp. Near Maple Grove, a visitor reported, "Did walk up and down paved road into camp and then on dirt roads off main road that had a few FCFS dry camp pull out areas along the creek. Saw some bear scat on trail closer to I-70."
Tips from RVers
Convenient overnight stops: Several campgrounds cater to travelers passing through on I-70. A visitor to Love's RV Stop-Salina UT 581 commented, "This was a super easy on and off, clean, new, nice amenities, not very crowded and right at the gas stations. The views were beautiful."
Site selection for large rigs: Not all campgrounds accommodate bigger RVs equally. At Richfield KOA, a camper observed, "Tight spots in a camp right against what looks like a school yard. Everyone had ATV's so I expect if you want to go off-roading this probably perfect for you."
Wind considerations: The area experiences significant wind events that RVers should prepare for. At Fillmore KOA, a visitor noted, "When we arrived, the wind was consistently 45+ mph.... not sure if this is an extraordinary occurrence but the map says wind picks up frequently and to store your things."
Hookup availability: RV sites with services vary widely across the region. Butch Cassidy Campground features "big-rig friendly" sites with "electric-hookups" and "fifty-amp-hookups" for larger vehicles requiring more power.
