Camping spots near Spring City, Utah range from high-elevation mountain sites to desert dispersed areas, with elevations typically between 5,700 and 9,000 feet. The Manti-LaSal National Forest surrounds much of the region, creating distinct camping experiences between eastern and western sites. Most forest service roads close seasonally from November through April due to snow accumulation.
What to do
Rock climbing at Maple Canyon: Just 15 miles from Spring City, Maple Canyon Campground offers world-class conglomerate rock climbing. "You are WALKING distance from sport climbs of all grades. Some canyons have pictographs too! We also have dogs, so the small creek was nice for them to cool down in," reports Sarah W.
Fishing at mountain lakes: Lake Hill Campground provides fishing opportunities at higher elevations. "Cant swim in the lake because its really small but it has a lot of fish. A lot of cows and horses roaming freely," notes Overland Pioneer. The small alpine lakes throughout the area stock rainbow and brown trout.
Off-road trail exploration: Many campers use Joes Valley Reservoir as a base for OHV adventures. "There are toilets and picnic tables, and the roads have been paved in recent years. The best part about the campground is its ability to host a large group," explains Derek E. The area connects to hundreds of miles of forest service roads open to motorized vehicles.
What campers like
High-elevation escapes: During summer heat, campers seek higher sites like Potters Pond Campground for cooler temperatures. "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!" writes Steven M.
Free dispersed camping: Budget-conscious campers prefer Willow Creek Road for no-fee camping. "Great dispersed place to stay. Was there on a thursday and saw 2 other people. Campsite I stayed at/the drive up is amazing during sunset," shares Dalton. These sites lack facilities but offer privacy away from developed campgrounds.
Access to water recreation: The reservoirs provide water activities despite drought conditions. "The camp sites were great. They were clean and well kept. The water was really low. We don't own a boat, so we were shore bound," explains Venessa C. about Joes Valley. Ponds and small lakes often remain accessible even when larger reservoirs drop.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many camping areas require travel on dirt roads of varying quality. "Just off of willow creek rd. Turn left at the map coordinates. You are at almost 8000 ft so not a winter camping spot. There is some ATV traffic but respectfully slow. Good roads in but we got there on a Sunday night and quite a bit of traffic heading out," advises Tracey W.
Limited amenities at remote sites: Most dispersed and national forest campgrounds have minimal facilities. "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," notes Steven M. about Potters Pond.
Weekend congestion: Popular campgrounds fill quickly Friday through Sunday. "Based on the reservation placards on the posts, the campground was filling up on Friday," reports Mary S. about Joes Valley. Holiday weekends often reach capacity by Thursday afternoon at reservable sites.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Heritage Grove Campground offers facilities designed for families. "Had very clean restrooms and showers. Lots of amenities like a playground and volleyball net. Campgrounds face the main area where cars drive so they're not very private, but that wasn't a problem for us," shares Rayna D.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds feature regular wildlife sightings. "There are plenty of opportunities to see wildlife such as deer, elk, coyotes, and we have seen black bears in the area," notes Troy L. about Indian Creek Campground. Morning and evening offer the best viewing times.
Swimming options: Some sites provide better swimming access than others. "The 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," reports Shad G.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring adjustment. "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," explains Steven M. about the journey to Potters Pond.
Reservation considerations: Pleasant Creek Ranch Camperworld offers the most reliable hookups in the area. "The only reason I did not give it 5 stars is because some of the sites aren't level and are pretty close to each other. I had to use 3 yellow square leveling blocks on the left side," notes Kenyon. This campground remains the only full-hookup option near Spring City.
Generator restrictions: National Forest campgrounds limit generator hours. "Pads on single sites for back in or pullthrough easily accommodate large trailers and fifth wheel campers. That translates to many generators which can be run from 6 am to 10 pm," explains Mary S. Private campgrounds often have fewer restrictions.
