Dispersed camping opportunities near Tabiona, Utah range from reservoir access points to high-elevation sites in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. At elevations between 6,500-10,000 feet, summer temperatures typically range from 40°F at night to 75°F during daytime, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms from July through August. The region's camping season runs primarily from late May through mid-October, with some higher elevation sites accessible only after snowmelt in late June.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: Moon Lake Campground provides excellent fishing access with boat rentals available. "My family has been going here every year in the summer for the last 30 years, we love to rent a boat and go fishing(we use the little gold and silver jakes fish hooks) and then we serve them up over the campfire," notes a regular visitor to Moon Lake Campground.
Hiking in surrounding forests: The area offers numerous trails for all skill levels. A camper at Aspen (UT) shares, "Aspen Campground is a beautiful little campground up Forest Road 144 (just east of Wolf Creek Pass, just before Hannah, UT). There are several reservable sites at Aspen, many of which border the Duchesne River."
Paddleboarding and water activities: Several lakes provide opportunities for paddling and swimming. "This was a great place to get away from the normal day to day. The lake is pretty low due to the drought, but we had a great time enjoying the water from the shore. We brought kayaks and paddleboards and the water was perfect," reports a visitor about their experience at Moon Lake.
Wildlife viewing: The surrounding forest hosts diverse wildlife. "We saw several deer throughout the day. There are a few hiking trails and they offer horse rides as well," mentions a Moon Lake camper, highlighting the accessible nature experiences in the area.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Many sites offer ample room for setting up camp. At Aspen Grove (uinta-wasatch-cache National Forest, Ut), campers appreciate the layout: "We took a 21' bumper pull to a double RV site and had a super great time. Site 46 on loop B is so good, double RV spot, right by the bathroom, tons of extra room for a tent if you want one."
Lakeside camping locations: Proximity to water is a major draw for glamping close to Tabiona, Utah. A visitor to Alexander Lake Backcountry notes, "There are numerous campsites spread around the lake and many are right on the water which is awesome."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain good standards for amenities. "The campground was very clean including the bathrooms," shares a Moon Lake camper, while an Aspen Grove visitor points out, "Toilets flush! Honestly one of the best bathrooms I've seen."
Stargazing opportunities: The dark skies offer spectacular views. A camper at Ashley National Forest Riverview Campground enthuses, "The night sky was amazing, could see the whole milky way galaxy."
What you should know
Weather variability: The high elevation brings unpredictable conditions. A visitor at Lost Creek Campground advises, "At nearly 10000 feet elevation, Temps were cool and air refreshing!" Another camper adds, "We went over 4th of July weekend 2 years ago and it was beautiful on the first 2 days the last day however it started to hail and snow. Yes, in July."
Access challenges: Some sites require appropriate vehicles. For Alexander Lake, a camper warns, "You must have high-clearance 4WD to get to these sites. Also like one of the other reviewers states, this does not mean that you'll be one of few campers at the lake."
Insects during summer months: Bugs can be problematic in warmer months. A Lost Creek visitor cautions, "During the day and ESPECIALLY in the evening, the mosquitoes are pretty intense throughout the whole summer. If you're planning to spend a lot of time outside of your tent (which you should!), bring lots of bugspray and citronella candles!"
Campsite availability: Weekends see higher usage than weekdays. "We learned that a trail encircles the lake and goes through all of the campsites. Lots of folks walking on the trail (and thus through our 'secluded' site)... Everyone cleared out after Sunday and we had the lake practically to ourselves," shares an Alexander Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Bring shade structures: Some sites lack natural shade. A visitor to Strawberry Hideout advises, "No shade in sight! No trees or anything to provide shade from 7:30-6ish (the sun goes behind the tent around 6). So bring a canopy or two because we forgot to bring one and were scorched!"
Pack for temperature swings: Daily temperature variations can be significant. "Stayed in mid August and the weather was perfect. Mid 70's during the day and low 40's at night," notes a Lost Creek Campground visitor, highlighting the need for layered clothing.
Prepare for strong winds: Wind protection for tents is essential. A Strawberry Hideout camper warns, "The wind will take your tent if you're not careful! The wind gusts would be so powerful at times it would almost carry out tent away from us. We had ours on the deck and it was an ample target for the biggest tent-napper out there: the wind."
Bring insect repellent: Bugs can be problematic during summer. "Bring bug spray and sun screen! We got burnt so badly and there were ants and ant hills everywhere," advises a Strawberry Hideout visitor, emphasizing preparation for outdoor conditions.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions: Some sites accommodate larger vehicles better than others. At Aspen Grove, "I have stayed here a couple times. We like campsite #38 because it is a double spot that can fit 3 or more cars or a truck and boat or large RV or trailer."
Consider elevation for engine performance: Higher elevations affect vehicle operation. When accessing sites like Alexander Lake, engines work harder and may consume more fuel due to thinner air at 8,800+ feet elevation.
Reserve pull-through sites when available: These simplify arrival and departure. A camper at Soldier Creek notes, "We stayed for 3 nights here and loved the Campground/area. We had two RVs and a tent and the pull through locations were great."
Look for level sites: Natural terrain creates challenges at some locations. A visitor to Aspen mentions, "Many individual sites have great shade from the trees. However, the group site has little."
