Equestrian camping near Teasdale, Utah offers access to diverse terrain at elevations ranging from 7,000 to 9,500 feet. The region's high desert climate features dramatic temperature variations, with summer daytime highs reaching 85°F while dropping to 45°F overnight. Most horse-friendly campsites in the area remain accessible from late April through October, though water sources at higher elevations may freeze during spring and fall nights.
What to do
Mountain horseback trails: Boulder Mountain area trails provide terrain for all riding skill levels within 15-20 minutes of Teasdale. At Posey Lake Campground, riders can access mountain paths directly from camp. "As of September 8th, the water has been turned off and there are no other campers here. A lot of the campsites have a tent level site included," notes camper DL M., highlighting late-season opportunities.
Fishing access: Several nearby camping areas offer direct lake access for anglers. Pine Lake Campground sits at 8,100 feet elevation with excellent fishing. Camper Colette K. confirms it's "a great place to beat the heat. Sites can be all sun or all shade. Many first come first serve, which is good for a last minute trip."
ATV routes: The region features extensive motorized trail networks connecting to camping areas. Camper Marcie R. notes about Pine Lake, "There are two loops in the campground. The upper loop is for reservations only. The bottom loop is first come first serve... Lots of ATV trails nearby."
What campers like
Quiet high-elevation camping: Boulder Mountain camping areas provide cool summer temperatures and relative solitude. At Durffey Mesa, camper Nick P. describes "Spot on right side, end of a big gravel looking parking lot. Just below two big rock formations and beside a dry creek bed."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high-quality bathroom facilities despite remote locations. According to Ian S. at Grand Staircase Resort of Escalante, "The washrooms and laundry facilities were kept very clean and wash shower had a cloth and bath mat. The office staff were friendly and helpful when planning our trip to the local gulches."
Wildlife viewing: Campsites frequently offer opportunities to observe deer and other wildlife. Nicole M. reports from Escalante Cabins & RV Park, "We watched mule deer out the window for a while and had fantastic views around us. Will definitely be coming back on another trip through Utah!"
What you should know
Road conditions: Many camping areas require driving on rough forest roads. Jen R. notes about Pine Lake Campground, "That 5 mile drive on the gravel road to get to the campsite is no joke — tie down everything that can be tied down — but once you're there, the sites are relatively well-spaced."
Seasonal water availability: Higher elevation campgrounds often shut off water systems in early fall. DL M. reports at Posey Lake, "As of September 8th, the water has been turned off and there are no other campers here."
Cell service variability: Coverage varies dramatically by location and carrier. Cat F. mentions at Koosharem Reservoir, "Great Verizon service here, mountains are beautifull. There is some road noise from 24 at times as it is quite close."
Tips for camping with families
Bear safety protocols: Higher elevation sites require proper food storage. At Barker Reservoir Area, camper Matthew D. warns simply, "Be ware of bears. Use the food boxes."
Weather preparation: Mountain elevations experience significant temperature swings. Camper sunshine M. recounts at Pine Lake, "We visited mid-June of 2017...that's when the massive Brian Head fire happened. We got some ashes at the campsite, but were still able to enjoy the visit."
Insect protection: Certain areas and seasons bring persistent insects. Sunshine M. adds about Pine Lake, "the bugs were relentless. On one occasion, a horsefly bit through my husbands shirt, so be sure to pull out of the bug repellent hacks you can find!"
Tips from RVers
Water management: Freezing temperatures require water system precautions. Marianne G. notes at Grand Staircase Resort, "We were here for 7 nights mid-November. It was very cold so we had to disconnect water at night but hook-ups were easy to use and worked well."
Site selection: Choose campsites based on specific needs and proximity to facilities. Nick M. shares about Grand Staircase Resort, "The tent site were a little tight for our camper van so they pro rated us the tent price for the first night. Very clean showers and bathrooms."
Boondocking options: Free dispersed camping exists throughout the region. At Piute State Park Campground, C A. recommends, "Pick your camping location among the cottonwood trees or out in the open for full solar. No services other than pit toilets (which are still locked in early May)."
