Camping options near Sterling, Utah range from established campgrounds with full amenities to dispersed sites in the Manti-La Sal National Forest. The area sits at elevations between 5,000-8,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night even in summer months. Water levels at reservoirs like Yuba Lake and Joes Valley fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access and water activities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Palisade State Park Campground provides access to a lake stocked with multiple fish species. "Plenty of fish to catch off the shore or in a boat," notes Matt L., who also mentions the "playground and well-maintained bathrooms" available at this recreation area.
Bouldering sessions: Joes Valley attracts rock climbers seeking challenging bouldering routes. According to Andrew P., the area offers "a great, secluded time, while in between bouldering sessions," making it popular with the climbing community throughout spring and fall seasons.
Hot springs soaking: Mystic Hot Springs schedules two-hour soaking windows throughout the day. Sarah S. explains, "I've been here in the summer and winter. Stayed in one of their buses and camped. Both times have been fun experiences." The springs feature natural mineral pools of varying temperatures.
ATV trail access: Numerous off-highway vehicle routes connect campgrounds throughout the region. At Fillmore KOA, campers appreciate the "great location if you ATV or just need a night along Interstate 15," according to Kristi R., who found the staff "so great and flexible" when travel plans changed.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept amenities despite their remote locations. At Fillmore KOA, Thomas W. found "the bathrooms were very clean" and appreciated that he "was able to book a res after closing hours which is always nice to be spontaneous."
Lake activities: Yuba State Park offers swimming, boating, and shoreline recreation. Ashley R. notes, "There is a small beach area by the boat launch, or a 20 minute drive will get you to North Beach. There are a couple of trails, and lots of area to explore."
Stargazing conditions: The dark skies around Sterling provide exceptional night viewing. Ben reported from Yuba State Park that "the view in all directions is beautiful" and the campground is "beautifully settled in the hills," mentioning it was nearly empty when visiting in September.
Yurt camping alternatives: While traditional yurt camping near Sterling, Utah is limited, Mystic Hot Springs offers unique accommodation options. Frederick S. recommends, "Be sure to reserve one of the buses online, soak in the hot springs and enjoy one of the greatest most peaceful relaxing spots I have found."
What you should know
Water level fluctuations: Drought conditions affect lake access at several reservoirs. At Joes Valley Reservoir, Venessa C. cautions, "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."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require advance booking. At Palisade State Park, Karin W. explains it's "a great place to go kayaking (no power boats allowed)" but warns "our best kept secret is no longer a secret and it is crowded all the time."
Pack-out policies: Forest Service campgrounds often lack trash facilities. Mars B. notes about Joes Valley Reservoir, "Campground does not have dumpsters. You are required to pack everything out so try to have as little of garbage as possible or make space for it with you to take."
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds involves narrow mountain roads. Annell N. warns about Yuba State Park, "CAUTION: See GPS Coordinates so that you do not enter on the muddy dirt road like we did. Google maps took us to the park but an uninviting entrance to the park."
Tips for camping with families
Group sites available: Larger families should look for designated group camping areas. At Joes Valley Reservoir, Derek E. shares from experience, "The best part about the campground is its ability to host a large group. The area is spread out yet open enough to feel like everyone has their own space and still together as a group."
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds include features specifically for children. According to Shad G., "My kids loved the water despite the wind throughout the day" at Joes Valley Reservoir, adding "There were a fair amount of people boating, swimming, fishing, kayaking, etc around the shoreline."
Alternative lodging options: Orange Olsen offers cabin accommodations for families not wanting to tent camp. Steven G. explains, "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."
Multiple activities: Look for campgrounds with diverse recreation options. Brittley A. recommends Palisade State Park because "We've been coming here for several years now, and it hasn't disappointed! It is a simple yet adventurous place to hang out and stay a few nights at! We really love the lake and all the little trails we could mountain bike on!"
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Not all campgrounds provide adequate separation between camping units. Stephen D. found Palisade State Park to have "Lots of big rigs, asphalt, generators, traffic and noise," suggesting it may not suit campers seeking quiet or privacy.
Pull-through availability: Large RVs need appropriate sites to avoid difficult maneuvering. At Yuba State Park, Phillip R. notes, "We have a 42 ft motorhome and a separate pickup with a 6x12 trailer and we fit both in a pull through site and it looked like there was another 40 feet available."
Hookup access: Verify what utilities are provided at each site. Kurt C. advises about Palisade State Park: "This place is a great place to camp if you have one of the single or double site next to lake. There is plenty of grass and great facilities. The group site on other side of road is not the best."
