Fish Lake National Forest Campsite offers free dispersed camping on Fishlake National Forest land near Sterling. Located just minutes from Interstate 15, the site features juniper trees providing natural privacy barriers between camping areas. Most sites remain accessible to standard vehicles when roads are dry, with multiple pull-offs suitable for cars, vans, and small trailers. The dispersed camping area sits at approximately 5,500 feet elevation, creating moderate temperature variations between day and night.
What to do
Trail riding exploration: At Tasha Equestrian Campground, campers access numerous riding trails directly from their sites. "Perfect for trail enthusiasts. Plenty of places to explore. Some sites have corrals and some only have hitching posts," notes Molly D.
Fishing at reservoir: Koosharem Reservoir provides accessible shore fishing with rainbow trout stocking. "They stock this with rainbow trout if your a fisherman. Great Verizon service here, mountains are beautiful," reports Cat F. The reservoir sits approximately 25 miles from Sterling.
Winter geocaching: Some campgrounds maintain limited winter accessibility for cold-weather activities. At Potters Pond Campground, winter enthusiasts find unique recreation opportunities even when facilities close. "Winter hike to find an old geocache," mentions Don N. about his off-season visit.
What campers like
Cooler summer temperatures: Higher elevation sites provide relief from summer heat. "The campground is situated above 9000ft elevation so the days are mild warm and the nights can be cool to cold," explains Steven M. from Potters Pond Campground.
Easy interstate access: Fish Lake National Forest Campsite serves as a convenient overnight stop. "This wasn't where we planned to camp but got too tired to drive any further... This spot worked out nicely," shares Valorie H. Many campers appreciate the quick 7-10 minute drive from Interstate 15.
Private, secluded sites: Several campgrounds offer well-spaced sites for privacy. "Very private and not crowded, even during the busiest weekends. Access to lots of pretty places to run around and explore," writes Sage H. about Uinta National Forest Blackhawk Campground.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites have no amenities. "There are pit toilets, but no water so you have to bring your own in. Also, you have to haul out your garbage since there aren't any dumpsters onsite," explains Shad G. about Potters Pond.
Road conditions vary: Many campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. "Much bigger climb than expected, so if towing a heavier trailer be aware. Gravel road is well maintained with minimal washboard," advises Andrew M. about Maple Hollow.
Wildlife encounters: Remote sites occasionally experience wildlife activity. "As I was laying in my sleeping bag inside my tent around 11pm, some creature started stalking me around midnight. I could hear it moving and breathing outside my tent," reports Ean P. from Fish Lake National Forest Campsite.
Tips for camping with families
Shade considerations: Trees provide important relief from summer sun. "The abundant trees and brush truly make one feel like they are a million miles away from home," notes Steven M. about Potters Pond Campground.
Water recreation options: Several sites offer water access. "We had a great overnight stay! We camped in our 4Runner and parked just feet from the waters edge, it was gorgeous!!" shares Josh R. about Koosharem Reservoir.
Group site availability: Some campgrounds accommodate larger family gatherings. "Great spot for camping with a group. Quite a few spots accessible by car. A couple fireplaces here and there too," explains Ean P. about Fish Lake National Forest Campsite.
Tips from RVers
Limited trailer sites: Many horse campgrounds near Sterling accommodate smaller RVs better than large trailers. "Limited space for small trailers/campers. Good for campervans or tent campers," advises Andrew M. about Maple Hollow.
Equestrian site advantages: Non-horse campers can sometimes benefit from booking equestrian sites. "We booked equestrian sites up at the top - highest elevation. Good views, pavilions, fire pits and pit toilets. Don't have to have horses to book equestrian and they seem to be more available since I don't think people know this," recommends Andrea P. from Uinta National Forest Blackhawk Campground.
Weather preparedness: High elevation camping requires preparation for temperature swings. "It got chilly at night & in the early morning," notes Caitlin about Koosharem Reservoir, highlighting the need for appropriate layering even during summer months.
