Dispersed camping options near Salina, Utah range across the Fishlake National Forest with elevations between 5,000-9,000 feet. The region features desert landscapes transitioning to alpine forest zones, creating distinct seasonal temperature variations. Many dispersed sites offer mountain views with juniper and pinyon pine providing natural shade at lower elevations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Maple Grove Campground features a stocked creek running through the property that attracts anglers throughout the camping season. "The small creek that runs through the campground is stocked with fish multiple times per year," notes a camper at Maple Grove.
ATV trail access: The Richfield KOA connects directly to Utah's extensive OHV trail system. "The real draw of this park seems to be people with ATVs as there is a gate at the back for trail access," explains one visitor to Richfield KOA. Another notes, "Great campground in Richfield with a lot of great OHV trails and mountain bike trails nearby."
Hot springs soaking: Mystic Hot Springs offers 24-hour access to mineral pools with camping options nearby. A visitor describes, "The hot springs are amazing and it is beautiful. We visited the hot springs and lava tunnels. Kids had a blast," according to a camper at Mystic Hot Springs.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The dispersed camping at Mountain Mecca provides secluded spots away from other campers. "There are several established places to camp with beautiful views. Very private," reports a reviewer at Mountain Mecca, adding "Beautiful scenery and just right outside of town."
Easy interstate access: Fish Lake National Forest dispersed camping offers convenient overnight options for travelers. "Just needed to find a place for the night and this was perfect! No one around, huge site, beautiful views and free!" mentions a camper at Fish Lake National Forest. Another notes it's "convenient to I-70 but feels very remote."
Well-maintained facilities: Developed campgrounds like Fillmore KOA receive praise for their upkeep. "Showers, bathrooms, laundry and common areas were spotless," writes one visitor, while another mentions "The campground and facilities are very clean and well maintained."
What you should know
Road conditions: Mountain Mecca requires appropriate vehicles for access. "Need high clearance and 4x4... Beautiful but couldn't get up the road," warns one visitor. Another suggests, "Road goes up past water tower and recommends using 4wd to come up to prevent washboard, but any vehicle with awe would do."
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Maple Grove operates from "May 23 to September 13" according to official information, while Fillmore KOA runs from "March 1 to November 30."
Campsite availability: Weekend congestion affects some campgrounds. One camper at Palisade State Park reports, "It can be busy on weekends, but remains very quiet during the week." Another mentions, "It is getting busier so it's harder to get a reservation."
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Palisade State Park offers multiple water recreation options for children. "They also rent paddle boats and canoes if wanted. Have a sandy little beach as well," notes one visitor. Another adds, "Great rec area including a playground. Bathrooms well maintained and pedal boat and other boat rentals."
Pet friendly options: For animal-inclusive family camping near Salina, Utah, Butch Cassidy Campground welcomes pets with full-service sites. "Very nice campsite and not too far from the freeway," mentions a visitor at Butch Cassidy Campground.
Exploring options: Mountain biking trails near dispersed sites provide family adventure opportunities. A Mountain Mecca visitor notes, "Lots of mountain bikers and cool exploring to do around the area," while another adds it's "Great for mountain biking."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Fillmore KOA, certain sites offer better positioning for convenience. "We stayed in site 33 which was great because we didn't have to unhook our tow vehicle and you have no one looking in your front windshield," advises an RVer.
Space limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "Lots of old RVs in very tight spaces. We checked this place out and decided not to stay," warns a visitor regarding Salina Creek RV Camp.
Service availability: Love's RV Stop provides essential amenities for overnight stays. "This was a super easy on and off, clean, new, nice amenities, not very crowded and right at the gas stations," notes a visitor to Love's RV Stop near Salina.
