Tent campsites near Sterling, Utah range from established sites with basic amenities to remote dispersed locations at elevations up to 8,000 feet. The Fishlake National Forest provides the majority of camping options, with sites situated among juniper and pine forests. Camping conditions vary significantly by season, with most higher-elevation sites accessible only from late spring through early fall due to snowpack and road conditions.
What to do
Explore nearby trails: At Fish Lake National Forest Campsite, campers can access several hiking paths directly from their site. One reviewer noted there are "open fields, so watch out for cows and cowpoo" when exploring the surrounding landscape. The area offers both shaded forest hiking and open meadow exploration.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote locations of Sterling area campsites provide exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. A camper at Maple Hollow mentioned "at night the stars were so beautiful while sitting around the campfire and being together while roasting marsh mellows." Darkness typically sets in completely by 9:30 PM during summer months.
Mountain biking access: Several primitive campsites connect directly to mountain biking trails. A reviewer at Willow Creek Road advised the site "is RIGHT next to a mountain bike trail, so expect some early-morning bikers to be coming down." Most trails in the area are intermediate to advanced level.
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Many dispersed sites around Sterling offer significant separation from other campers. At Willow Creek Road, one camper reported they "stayed at/the drive up is amazing during sunset" and another mentioned they "saw 2 other people" during their weekday stay. Even on weekends, most dispersed areas remain uncrowded.
Accessibility without crowds: Despite relatively easy access, many tent campsites maintain a remote feel. A reviewer at Fish Lake National Forest found their site "convenient to I-70 but feels very remote. We passed one other camper on the way in." Most sites can be reached on gravel roads suitable for passenger vehicles.
Natural shade coverage: Unlike many Utah camping areas, Sterling area campsites often feature ample tree cover. According to a Maple Hollow visitor, the campground has "Maple trees, evergreens and oak trees throughout. Beautiful fresh air. Plenty of shade." This natural canopy helps moderate summer temperatures that regularly exceed 90°F in exposed areas.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access to many tent campsites deteriorates after precipitation. One camper at Fish Lake National Forest Campsite shared: "The road was pretty doable in our truck, but it think it would be easy in a sedan too." However, another reviewer warned about "5 mile rough gravel road for access" to Maple Hollow.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites require complete self-sufficiency. A Fish Lake National Forest camper warned about "some broken glass and trash, but nothing unexpected," while another noted being completely self-contained was necessary as there were "no toilets" or other amenities.
Wildlife encounters: Local wildlife regularly visits campsites in the Sterling area. One Fish Lake National Forest Campsite visitor cautioned: "some creature started stalking me around midnight. I could hear it moving and breathing outside my tent." Proper food storage in sealed containers is essential.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites for amenities: Families often prefer campsites with basic facilities. At Maple Hollow, a visitor noted "each campsite had running water" and "the bathrooms were nice as well even though they didn't flush." The campground also features defined sites with fire rings and picnic tables.
Plan for elevation changes: Temperature variations can surprise unprepared campers. At Willow Creek Road, a reviewer mentioned "You are at almost 8000 ft so not a winter camping spot," indicating the need for warmer sleeping gear even in summer months when overnight temperatures can drop into the 40s.
Explore car-accessible sites: Many tent sites are appropriate for family camping without requiring extensive hiking. A Fish Lake National Forest camper described their experience: "This was our first time boondocking and this spot did not disappoint! It's convenient to I-70 but feels very remote." Sites vary in size, with some accommodating multiple tents.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for campers: Most Sterling area tent sites have restrictions on larger vehicles. At Maple Hollow, a reviewer observed "Limited space for small trailers/campers. Good for campervans or tent campers." Most dispersed sites can accommodate vans or truck campers but have tight turning radiuses for larger rigs.
Consider weekday visits: Weekend congestion can make navigating narrow forest roads challenging. One Willow Creek Road visitor suggested "we got there on a Sunday night and quite a bit of traffic heading out. I imagine the weekends are busy." Midweek arrivals improve the chances of securing preferred sites.
