🏕️ Camping & Dispersed Backcountry Camping Areas near Marysvale, UT

The Fishlake National Forest and surrounding mountains offer a wide range of camping opportunities from our full-hookup RV park right on the Paiute Trail to remote backcountry sites where you can sleep under a blanket of stars.

Whether you prefer the comforts of a developed site or want to explore the rugged beauty of dispersed alpine camping, this region has it all. Here's your guide to nearby camping and backcountry camping areas on Monroe Mountain, in Bullion Canyon, and along the Paiute Trail.

Developed & Primitive Campgrounds Nearby

While our RV park provides full amenities and direct trail access, there are also a few primitive campgrounds in the surrounding area:

Big John Flat (Primitive Camping Area)

  • Elevation: 10,200 ft
  • Location: West side of Monroe Mountain
  • Access: Via ATV or high-clearance vehicle (FR 123)
  • What to Expect:
    • Wide alpine meadow
    • No services, vault toilets may be seasonal
    • Cool temps, great base for Delano Peak hiking
  • Ideal for: ATV/UTV riders, hikers, wildlife watchers

Manning Meadows Reservoir (Primitive Camping)

  • Elevation: 9,800 ft
  • Access: Forest roads, ATV/UTV, or 4x4 vehicles
  • What to Expect:
    • Quiet, scenic lakeside camping
    • No formal campground – camp on designated flat areas
    • Great for fishing and relaxing
  • Ideal for: Anglers, remote campers

Box Creek Reservoirs (Upper & Lower)

  • Elevation: ~9,400–9,600 ft
  • Access: Forest roads + ATV/UTV
  • What to Expect:
    • Several flat areas near shoreline for dispersed camping
    • No services – fully pack-in/pack-out
    • Great stargazing and fishing
  • Ideal for: Solitude, backcountry experiences

Dispersed Camping in Fishlake National Forest

Dispersed camping (also known as backcountry or boondocking) is free and allowed throughout most of the Fishlake National Forest, with some simple guidelines to follow:

✅ Where You Can Camp:

  • Along Forest Service roads (FRs)
  • In pull-outs, clearings, and flat areas that have already been used as campsites
  • At least 200 feet from water sources, including lakes and streams
  • Outside of signed "No Camping" zones

❌ Where You Cannot Camp:

  • In active cattle grazing pastures (check signs)
  • Within developed recreation sites (unless designated)
  • Anywhere that damages vegetation or disturbs wildlife

🗺️ Popular dispersed camping zones include:

  • Cottonwood Canyon Road (FR 068) – good base for Monroe Mountain rides
  • Bullion Canyon above Miners Park – access to waterfalls and historic sites
  • Delano Ridge spurs – for experienced riders seeking remote overnights

What to Bring for Backcountry Camping

Because dispersed camping has no services, be fully self-sufficient. Here’s what to bring:

  • Tent or truck camper (high-clearance vehicles recommended)
  • Drinking water (none available at sites)
  • Food and cooking gear
  • Trash bags – pack it in, pack it out
  • Firewood (or use a camp stove – check fire restrictions)
  • Maps or GPS (limited cell service)
  • Warm clothing – nights are cold, even in summer
  • First aid kit and emergency supplies

Why Campers Choose Our RV Park First

Many guests use our RV park as their base camp, then venture into the backcountry for a night or two before returning for a hot shower and a relaxing evening. When you stay with us:

  • Ride straight to dispersed areas via legal ATV routes
  • Get local advice on the best camping zones and roads
  • Restock water, dump tanks, or recharge before heading back out

We're here to support your backcountry adventure whether you’re heading into the forest for a night or planning a multi-day ride-and-camp loop.