Within Manti-La Sal National Forest, Upper Joes Valley Campground operates as a free US Forest Service site from mid-May through October. The forested campground provides basic amenities including toilets and picnic tables, with drive-in access for visitors.
One camper noted crowding issues and infrequent toilet maintenance during peak usage periods, though praised the proximity to climbing areas. The campground sits near several other options, including Joes Valley Campground less than a quarter-mile away. Cold temperatures arrive early in the fall season, so campers should pack appropriate gear for late-season visits.
Description
Upper Joes Valley is located at ~7340' elevation, just south of the intersection of Millers Flat Road and Lowry Water Road. The trees offer shade for most campers and provide spectacular autumn color.
Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. "Dispersed camping" is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest outside of a designated campground, and is generally allowed anywhere unless posted otherwise. Many people drive out on Forest Service roads into the woods and find spots that meet the needs for their camp. Dispersed camping may mean no toilet facilities or treated water are located nearby. Typically, dispersed camping is not allowed near developed recreation areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas or trailheads. Some dispersed sites are provided with fire rings and in those cases please use them as they are designating that area as the spot to safely have a campfire. Finally some dispersed sites have a designated footprint for use. If you see a site with any type of barriers or fencing please respect these areas by not pulling motor vehicles or OHV’s. They are there to preserve the surrounding forest making it enjoyable for all.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundManti-LaSal National Forest Upper Joes Valley Campground is located in Utah
Directions
From Orangeville, Utah, head northwest on State Route 29 and travel for ~14 miles until you see Joes Valley Reservoir. Continue to follow SR-29 to the north end of the reservoir, about 2.5 miles, until you get to the turn-off for Millers Flat Road/Forest Road (FR) 0014. Head north on FR 0014 for about 2.2 miles until just before the intersection with Lowry Water Road/FR 0038 on the east side of the road.
Coordinates
39.29733061381098 N
111.29751041256968 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 39 min from Provo, UT
- 3 hrs 10 min from Salt Lake City, UT
- 3 hrs 38 min from Ogden, UT
- 3 hrs 49 min from Grand Junction, CO
