Many campers may not immediately think of Washington County for alpine mountain camping, especially considering St. George’s scorching reputation in Utah. However, just 32 miles away from St. George lies an unexpected gem nestled within a ponderosa pine forest. Sitting at an elevation of 6,800 feet, this area offers a refreshing escape from the desert heat. You’ll find 67 campsites spread across Crackfoot, Dean Gardner, Ebeneezer Bryce, and Equestrian campgrounds, all conveniently located near the picturesque Pine Valley Reservoir, which is regularly stocked with trout. Don’t forget to explore the Pine Valley Mormon Chapel, one of the oldest places of worship in the faith, known for its distinctive upside-down ship appearance. These campgrounds also serve as gateways to the Pine Valley Wilderness, Utah’s second-largest wilderness area.
Discover the Recreational Paradise of Bear Lake Valley! Known as the ‘Caribbean of the Rockies’ for its mesmerizing turquoise waters, Bear Lake offers an array of activities year-round. You can jet ski, sail, boat, fish, swim, and bask on our sandy beaches during the fall. When winter arrives, there’s snowmobiling, ice fishing, and snow skiing to enjoy. Birdwatching and wildlife spotting are also part of the charm. Find a variety of accommodations in Bear Lake, including lodging, hotels, motels, bed & breakfasts, vacation rentals, RV parks, and campgrounds. Stay up-to-date with the latest Bear Lake Fishing Report!
Fall is just around the corner, and Bear Lake Valley truly shines during this season. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, with the perfect mix of tranquility and open attractions that continue from the vibrant summer. Daytime weather remains pleasantly warm, allowing for outdoor adventures, while evenings invite you to cozy up in your hoodies and enjoy the cool breeze.
Nestled within a serene Ponderosa pine forest atop a spacious plateau, McMillan Spring Campground boasts breathtaking panoramic vistas. This idyllic campground, situated at an elevation of 8,400 feet, is a cherished destination for a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts, particularly drawing avid big game hunters during the autumn months.
Designed with equestrian visitors in mind, McMillan Spring Campground offers an array of amenities catering to horse enthusiasts, including secure corrals, livestock watering facilities, and a convenient trough. The strategically positioned corrals are easily accessible from multiple campsites, enhancing the camping experience for horse owners.
In addition to its equestrian facilities, McMillan Spring is a well-appointed nine-site campground that provides essential amenities such as parking areas, picnic tables, fire rings, grills, benches, potable water, and restroom facilities. Please note that water availability is seasonal, typically running from May through September. To confirm current water status, it’s advisable to contact the Henry Mountains Field Station.
McMillan Spring Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not accept reservations, ensuring a fair and accessible camping experience for all.
For those seeking a more urban adventure, consider staying at the Kaysville campground nestled within a historic orchard. With a remarkable 700 trees on the premises and a total of 180 campsites, including numerous equipped with hookups, this delightful location offers a perfect escape from the summer heat. A plethora of amenities awaits, including a spacious water park, swimming pool, playgrounds, miniature golf, and a challenging climbing wall to keep the kids thoroughly entertained. Additionally, the campground’s proximity to the Lagoon theme park in nearby Farmington adds to its allure. It’s no surprise that many regard this campground as the premier private camping destination in the state.
Cedar Breaks’ Point Supreme: Often Overlooked, Yet Elevated Beauty
When contemplating National Park Service campgrounds, the one located east of Parowan might not be your initial thought. However, perched at an impressive elevation of 10,000 feet, it stands as one of Utah’s highest campgrounds, making it an ideal retreat for savoring the mesmerizing red rock landscapes of southern Utah without the scorching heat.
This 25-unit facility, with 10 units available for advance reservations at http://www.recreation.gov, offers a convenient base within walking distance of the awe-inspiring Cedar Breaks Amphitheater. Nearby, you’ll find a wealth of attractions, including Navajo Lake, Dove Creek, the Brian Head ski area, and Panguitch Lake, along with an array of captivating hiking trails.
Jordanelle State Park, a prime location mere minutes from some of Utah’s finest attractions and experiences. Whether your interests lie in skiing, shopping, attending screenings at the world-renowned Sundance Film Festival, or exploring the historic venues of the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics, this is your ideal destination. Situated just a few miles from Park City, Jordanelle State Park offers convenient access to all these opportunities.
If you’re in the mood for a scenic drive or an exciting snowmobiling adventure, you’ll find the Mirror Lake Highway just a short drive away, promising even more outdoor exploration and enjoyment.
Nestled alongside the tranquil Currant Creek Reservoir, Currant Creek Campground offers a serene retreat enveloped by the beauty of aspen, fir, and lodgepole pine forests. The reservoir teems with rainbow and cutthroat trout, delighting fishing enthusiasts. A dedicated campground host is available on-site to assist visitors.
The campground boasts numerous amenities, including well-maintained paved roads and parking spaces, a convenient dump station, a boat ramp, inviting fire rings, readily available firewood, grilling facilities, picnic tables, a handicap-accessible fishing pier, and an engaging playground for families. Popular activities at this expansive 133-unit U.S. Forest Service campground encompass hiking, wildlife observation, fishing, and boating.
While the campground’s size may seem generous for the nearby reservoir, its elevated location at 8,000 feet offers a welcome escape from late-summer heat and a chance to savor the vibrant fall foliage. Shaded by aspen, fir, and lodgepole pine, the campground frequently hosts deer and elk, enhancing the enchanting natural experience. Anglers will find productive trout fishing opportunities in the reservoir, and horseback riding enthusiasts can take advantage of designated facilities. In all, Currant Creek Campground is a perfect spot to relish the great outdoors.
Experience Old-Time Charm at This Sanpete County Reservoir
Nestled about two hours to the south of Salt Lake City, this quaint Sanpete County reservoir has been a beloved resort destination since the 1860s, offering a wealth of entertainment in a compact space. The site comprises four campgrounds — Arapeen, Sanpitch, Wakara, and Pioneer — providing an array of camping options, from tent sites to RV spots, some equipped with hookups. These campgrounds sit along the picturesque shores of a small reservoir, where the use of motorized boats is restricted.
Families seeking a late-summer retreat will find an array of delights, including a sandy swimming beach, inviting swimming platforms, canoe and kayak rentals, cozy cabins available for rent through Utah State Parks, a charming small playground, and a splendid 18-hole golf course. Additionally, adventure enthusiasts can explore the nearby Skyline Drive, renowned as one of Utah’s top four-wheel-drive experiences.
Immerse Yourself in the Serenity of Flaming Gorge Reservoir at This Campground
Nestled within a dense landscape of pinyon pine and juniper trees, accentuated by occasional sagebrush, this campground finds its idyllic setting on the picturesque Flaming Gorge Reservoir. The abundant vegetation not only affords campers a degree of privacy between sites but also offers partial shade. For those occupying the outer loop campsites, perched on the ridge’s edge, the reward is breathtaking panoramic vistas of the sprawling reservoir.
This generously sized campground features numerous family-friendly sites, including two accessible ones, as well as a group site accommodating up to 50 individuals. Each site is thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings to enhance your outdoor experience.
Guests can avail themselves of modern conveniences such as flush and vault toilets, potable water, and refreshing showers. An amphitheater with comfortable bleacher seating and a sturdy screen support is conveniently located on the outer loop, providing an ideal venue for gatherings and entertainment. Firewood is available for purchase from the campground host, and both roads and parking spurs are paved for ease of navigation and accessibility.
As the vibrant hues of fall begin to paint the landscape, there’s no better time to weave the final threads of your camping memories for the year. While you consider the following suggestions, or perhaps stumble upon your very own secret spot, don’t let the enchanting opportunities of fall camping slip through your fingers. Embrace this magical season and savor all the wonders it has in store for camping enthusiasts.