Camping at Joe's Valley Reservoir Campground

Location and Access

Joe's Valley Reservoir Campground is located in the Manti-La Sal National Forest in Utah, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and outdoor recreation activities. The campground is situated near Joe's Valley Reservoir at an elevation of about 7,000 feet, ensuring a cooler climate even in summer.

Campground Features

Campsites:

• The campground provides several campsites, both standard and group sites, suitable for tents and RVs.
• Each site typically has a picnic table, fire ring, and grill.

Amenities:

• Potable water is provided within the campground for drinking and cooking.
• Vault toilets are available, but there is no RV dump station or electric hookups.
• Some sites may have access to bear-proof containers for food storage.

Activities

Water Recreation:

• Anglers can enjoy fishing for trout in Joe's Valley Reservoir.
• Boating is a popular activity, with a boat ramp available for launching watercraft.

Land-Based Recreation:

• Hiking trails are accessible from the campground, leading through diverse landscapes of the national forest.
• Mountain biking and off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding are also popular activities.
• Hunting for game species is allowed in certain areas during designated seasons, following the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources regulations.

Wildlife and Plants:

• The area is abundant in wildlife, including deer, elk, and various bird species, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• With its high elevation, the region is home to a variety of plants and trees like pines, aspens, and wildflowers.

Reservations and Season

Availability:

• The camping season usually runs from late spring through early fall, depending on the weather conditions.
• It is recommended to check current conditions and availability before planning your trip, as seasons may vary.

Reservations:

• Reservations can be made in advance through the recreation.gov website, or sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• During peak seasons and holidays, it is recommended to book reservations early.

Considerations

Weather:

• The weather at this elevation can be unpredictable, with cold nights even in summer. Campers should come prepared with appropriate gear.

Altitude:

• Because of its high elevation, visitors may want to acclimate to avoid altitude sickness.

Wildlife Precautions:

• Following proper food storage guidelines is essential to prevent attracting bears and other wildlife.

Leave No Trace:

• Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize the impact on the natural environment, including proper disposal of waste and respecting wildlife and other campers.

Accessibility:

• Visitors with disabilities should check ahead for the accessibility of campsites and facilities.

By taking the necessary precautions and planning ahead, camping at Joe's Valley Reservoir Campground in the Manti-La Sal National Forest can be a fantastic outdoor experience for individuals, families, and groups looking to enjoy Utah's stunning wilderness.