Mirror Lake, near Kamas, Utah, is a stunning destination tucked within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. This campground offers a mix of tent and RV sites, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without the hassle of modern distractions.

The area is known for its breathtaking views and excellent hiking trails, with many visitors raving about the nearby routes leading to picturesque spots like Ruth Lake and Bonnie Lake. Fishing is another highlight, as the lake is stocked with rainbow trout, making it a popular spot for anglers. As one camper noted, “Fishing is good,” and many enjoy kayaking and canoeing on the serene waters.

While the campground can get busy, especially on weekends, the well-kept sites come equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, allowing for cozy evenings around the campfire. Some campers have mentioned the lack of cell service as a plus, giving you a chance to truly disconnect and enjoy the great outdoors. Just be prepared for the pit toilets, which could use a bit more attention.

With its cooler temperatures and beautiful surroundings, Mirror Lake is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to escape the heat and enjoy a slice of Utah's natural beauty. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just soaking in the views, this campground has plenty to offer for a memorable outdoor experience.

## Overview

 Mirror Lake Campground is located just off the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway on the shores of its beautiful namesake lake at an elevation of 10,400 feet. The byway cuts through the Uinta Mountains, which are known for their abundant recreational opportunities and scenic beauty.
## Recreation

 Mirror Lake offers great canoeing and kayaking opportunities. Anglers enjoy fishing for rainbow trout. The lake is open only to non-motorized watercraft. A gravel-surfaced interpretive nature trail circles the lake. Visitors of all ages enjoy learning about local flora and fauna through a series of educational displays scattered along the trail. Many hiking, biking, horse and off-road vehicle trails crisscross this beautiful region, including trails to Bonnie Lake, Scudder Lake and Naturalist Basin, all part of the Highline Trail. Fehr Lake Trail begins just outside the campground. Bald Mountain Trail can be accessed nearby.
## Facilities

 The campground contains several single and double campsites, some of which are accessible, all with picnic and utility tables, tent pads and campfire rings with grills. Equestrian sites are available on a separate loop. Many sites have partial lake views. Vault toilets, drinking water and trash collection are provided. Firewood is available for purchase from the host. Roads and parking spurs are dirt.\_\_A day-use picnic area and small boat ramp are located on the lake shore. Campsites 65-79 are equipped for equestrian use (horses, mules, lamas) hitching rails and feeding boxes. 
## Natural Features

 Mirror Lake is situated at the base of the 11,943-foot Bald Mountain. The campground lies among a forest of white fir trees, which provides partial shade. Colorful summer wildflowers dot the landscape. Summer temperatures range from 65-75 degrees during the day to 40-50 degrees at night. 
## Nearby Attractions

 Mirror Lake Scenic Byway parallels the Lower Provo River as it snakes across a portion of the Uinta Mountains, leading to numerous high alpine lakes and streams, countless trails, breathtaking scenic viewpoints and various campgrounds. Fishing, canoeing, hiking, backpacking, horseback riding and biking are popular activities. The High Uintas Wilderness can be accessed from several trails along the byway. 
## Contact Info

 For facility specific information, please call (385) 273-1100.
## Charges & Cancellations

 Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dates may not be changed beyond the booking window until 18 days after booking the reservation. Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount. You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Late Cancellations Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival. Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply. Cabins / Lookouts: Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin or lookout reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Facility: If a customer cancels a group overnight facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date they will be charged the $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Day Use Area: If a customer cancels a group day use facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service fee charge. No-Shows Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date. If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under \"Late Cancellations\" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees. Refunds Customers must request refunds no later than 14 days after the scheduled departure date. Recreation.gov will not grant refund requests after 14 days of departure. Reservation Fee: For some facilities, tours or permits an additional reservation fee is charged. For some overnight and day-use facilities, an additional non-refundable reservation fee may apply. The non-refundable reservation fee for tours and tickets is $1.00. The non-refundable reservation fee for permits varies by location. Refunds for Bankcard Purchases: Refunds for bank card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank card. Refunds for Check or Cash Purchases: Refunds for Recreation.gov payments made by check or money order, and cash payments at selected campgrounds will be issued a check refund. A refund will be processed within 30 days of receipt and approval. Please Note: Refund requests made during or after departure can only be processed when approved by the facility management staff based upon local policy. Refunds for Emergency Closures: In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team will attempt to notify users and offer alternate dates (as appropriate). If this is not possible, reservations will be cancelled and all fees paid will be refunded. Reservation fees for free tickets are non-refundable in the event of an emergency closure. Recreation.gov Billing Information Reservation transaction will appear on customer's credit card statements as \"Recreation.gov 877-444-6777.\" Changes to Policies and Procedures Recreation.gov reserves the right, when necessary, to modify reservation policies. These policies were last updated July 2018.

Mirror Lake - Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest

Oakley is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Oakley, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Oakley

The Best Camping Near Oakley, Utah

We went for our first family vacation and we had a great time. My 3 year old son had such a blast exploring, bug hunting, star gazing and of course marshmallow toasting and just sitting around a big campfire. We went up over Labor Day weekend so it was chilly and we did get some rain but nothing that dampened our spirits. The fishing was good even though I only went one day due to crowds and considering how many people were near the lake it was actually quiet and we didn't get a lot of traffic through our campground. We camped in an ADA camp spot for my husband and even though it was close to the bathrooms, we never got that nasty pit toilet aroma that you tend to smell with pit toilets and the hosts kept it very clean! Our camp site was on the edge and we had a small cliff at the back of it so that was nice for added privacy, deterring bigger animals and my son loved exploring it. We can't wait to go back and visit again. Great area! 

Beautiful Lake and Great Campground!

Went here with a group of friends. A friend of mine recommended it and has been fly fishing here for years. It is very family friendly, with a well kept trail around the lake. The views cannot be beat, the scenery on the drive up alone made the trip worth it. Our group decided to hammock it, however I would not recommend this, it was way too cold with wind chill going straight through the hammock. With the high elevation make sure to bring plenty of layers. Nonetheless there are some great hammock trees. There are bathrooms, but no flushing toilets. Also some great hikes nearby.

Mirror Lake

Mirror lake is the most popular campground in all of the Uintas so the spots go super fast as soon as registration is opened! If you want solitude this is not the spot for you. I usually like to camp in the middle of nowhere, but this was a fun change. You have the lake right next to the campground where you can fish, canoe, or just chill lakeside. Then return to your tent for an afternoon nap. The nice thing about the Uintas is that it is always pleasant and cool. The views of bald Mountain from this lake is also awesome! Throw up a hammock on the shore and just chill all day long. The Uintas are also full of awesome hikes and millions of other lakes.

Heart of the Uintas

I love the trail that goes all the way along the lake it provides a way to see the whole lake and the surrounding nature.

One of the most naturally beautiful places in Utah. 

Lake is gorgeous and fishing is good. Canoe and kayak, hiking, bike, kids love it, adults love it. Camp hosts are nice. If this campground is full there are tons more around it.

Love-love-love Mirror Lake bi-way and camping.

Cold, beautiful, high Unitas camping 

Love love love this campground. Clean campground, clean bathrooms, and fire pits. Love the lake and hiking trails close by!

Love this beautiful place

We love camping here, but spots can be hard to get. Great fishing and hiking. Clean campground.

Gorgeous but busy

Beautiful higher altitude camping. RV's and tent camping. No electricity or water hookups. No showers and pit toilets. Allow horses in the horse section of the campground. Lake you can canoe, kayak no motorized crafts allwed. Fishing and swimming in the lake. Nice hiking around the lake.

Picturesque!

**Campground Review:**

This is our favorite drive-up campsite in the Uintas just because of the amount there is to do in the area! Nearby by is the namesake lake for not only the campground but the Highway as well. It is a gorgeous lake with views of both Bald Mountain to the west and Hayden peak to the northeast. Each year at least a thousand rainbow trout are stocked with numerous other trout including tiger and brook. We've had good luck fishing there with a classic bubble and fly and other lures like a Jake lure or a spinner.

As for the actual campground there are over 60 sites of which all of them will fill on a summer weekend so get there early!. If you are camping during the week, however, you can still find some solitude as the parties will be a little more spaced out but again no solitude like you can find backpacking only 1/2 mile from most trail heads. Each campground has a picnic table and fire ring, while some also have corrals for livestock. Vault toilets are interspersed throughout the campsites.

Some specifics about things to do in the area include hiking for a little bit on the Highline Trail at the east end of the campground. This trail spans the entire spine of the Uintas from west to east or vice versa. Which is uinique in itself because the Uintas are the tallest east west mountain range in the Lower 48\. Most people that take the trail take the ridge line through to Kings Peak and out Painters Basin by Atwood Lake. Very close by is also a great climbing area known as the Cobrazone. It contains easy to intermediate trad and sport routes with an approach sport route that lands you on top of a large ledge, "The Cobrazone", which gets you access to the rest of the routes!

**Product Review:**

As a Ranger for The Dyrt, we occasionally to get products to test! While at Mirror Lake Campground we tested the [Chicken Fried Rice](https://www.mountainhouse.com/M/product/chicken-fried-rice.html?variant_id=192) freeze-dried meal by [Mountain House](https://www.mountainhouse.com/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwrszdBRDWARIsAEEYhrcpuhRyUh4GUrarTTgm2nUuFMTl4IA-GglpJuUt9YbB8KGneVj_xfQaAqo-EALw_wcB) from their [5-day emergency meal kit](https://www.mountainhouse.com/m/product/0085606.html). We ate the meal off a point on the east side of the lake while fishing during one of our days there.

**Chicken Fried Rice:**

**Pros:**

*   The chicken was very tender and surprisingly juicy in the meal and the amount and variety of vegetables was nice including: mushrooms, carrots, red peppers, and green peas.
*   The convenience of being able to cook and eat from the same pouch makes cleaning up easy and enables you to bring just a stove and pot plus some fuel. In that regard it's great for backpacking trips at lower elevations.

**Cons:**

*   We think this meal is best suited as a side dish to a heartier main entree. While it did taste very good, it was the repetitive texture that made us desire a little change up. If you're car camping this can easily be remedied by adding some fresh veggies or making it a easy to prepare side dish to a main entree.
*   The only other complaints we had was that while the simplicity of the design cuts down on extra dishes we wish the packaging itself was also recyclable. Also if you plan on going on very high elevation trips eating beyond 12k' then we would recommend the [pro-paks](https://www.mountainhouse.com/m/category/entrees.html?Per_Page=12&amp;Sort_By=disp_order&amp;package=3_Pro-Pak%C2%AE) as they are vacuum sealed. You can also vacuum seal them yourself if you plan on serving in bowls on your backpacking trip. Just keep in mind that the pro-paks are smaller than the pouches.

As they have been in business since 1969 Mountain House definitely delivers a quality product and even if Fried Rice isn't your flavor, we're pretty sure you'll be able to find something you like, as long as you're a meat eater. Unfortunately there's not many vegetarian options

**Chicken Fried Rice: 4/5** Tastes great, more of a side than entree

Ranger Review: Mountain House's Chicken Fried Rice @ Mirror Lake Campground

We were there Thursday through Saturday and had a great time! Be warned that the bathrooms smell pretty strongly. Our site (62) was right next to it and we could smell orders from our camp. 

The sites themselves were really nice. Plenty of space for parking and tents, and every spot had a picnic table and fire pit. 👍🏻

Great Spot!!!

This is an absolutely amazing place.  Sits in the heart of the Uintas with the perfect view, unfortunately everyone knows its the best and very difficult to find a spot.  Online reservations fill up 6 months in advance, the day they are available and drive ups are tough to find.

Best of the Uintas!

Mirror Lake is one of my all time favorite camp areas. The designated camp sites are nice but the dispersed camping down the trails are even more beautiful, while close to the rest of the camps, that true feeling of isolation can be achieved. I would recommend mid July-September as the ideal times to camp here. We actually had a local join our camp one night who brought a drum, a flute, and a didgeridoo. It was transcendent.

Beautiful Site

I have backpacked in the Uintas for several years and have driven past this lake many times, but never stayed there. I am glad we did. 

The good:
1. Campsites are well kept.
2. Hiking trails around the lake and from the campground take you to some beautiful places. We backpacked one night to Bonnie Lake. 
3. Fish are stocked so the fishing is good. 
4. Kayaking and canoeing are great in this lake. 
5. No cell service. 
6. Cooler temperatures. About 20 degrees cooler than the Salt Lake Valley. 

The not so good:
1. Crowded on the weekends especially. 
2. The campsites are closer together than I normally like. 
3. People don’t take great care of the area. Lots of trash, fishing garbage, dead fish people leave, etc. 
4. Pit toilets could be cleaned and maintained more frequently. 

Beautiful Destination

I love camping here because of all of the available spaces, also the trails for hiking are amazing and there are so many options. 
We hiked up to Ruth Lake and had a picnic there, we saw a lot of people going up that way who were backpacking. 


Disperse Camping, Great Lakes.

Went to the day use area and it was great.  Toilets available, multiple picnic tables which included fire pits and a place to put your camping stove or other provisions.  Nice 2.1 mile hike around the lake before heading back, areas were still soggy with lots of mud. 

Campground still closed but day use area open 

As the most popular campsite in the area, I was a little worried we wouldn’t be able to snag a spot. But we went up on a Tuesday and there was plenty of room! So glad I finally was able to check this campground out because it’s can be difficult this time of year. Truly one of the most beautiful spots, it’s easy to understand why it’s so popular! 

Photos of Mirror Lake - Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest

Real photos from real campers