Fish Ford CG

For us Utah locals, the vastness of our state offers endless opportunities for escape, from towering red rock formations to serene desert expanses. When the desire for a truly remote and unspoiled camping experience strikes, far from the crowds of more popular areas, places like Fish Ford CG near Cisco stand out. This isn't your typical bustling campground; it's a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of Utah's desert landscape, offering a genuine "hide out" for those willing to embrace self-sufficiency and the quiet solitude of nature. This article is your insider's guide to Fish Ford CG, designed to inform and inspire fellow Utahns about this unique camping destination.

Fish Ford CG, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), is a primitive camping area located in the sparse, captivating desert landscape near Cisco, Utah. It's often described as a lesser-known gem, appealing specifically to those who relish quiet, remote settings. Situated near the Colorado River, the campground offers a unique blend of river access and vast, open terrain. Unlike highly developed campgrounds, Fish Ford provides minimal amenities, emphasizing a "pack it in, pack it out" philosophy. This makes it an ideal spot for experienced campers, adventurers seeking solitude, and those looking for direct access to off-the-beaten-path trails, including a connector to the famous Kokopelli Trail. While the landscape can feel "apocalyptic looking" during windy conditions, as one reviewer noted, it also offers a stark, rugged beauty that is quintessentially Utah, with expansive views and unparalleled stargazing opportunities. It's a place where you can truly disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in the desert's quiet grandeur.

Fish Ford CG is located near the small, historic hamlet of Cisco, Utah, with the general address being Cisco, UT 84515, USA. Accessing the campground typically involves taking the Danish Flat exit (Exit 214) off Interstate 70, then heading south from Cisco towards the Colorado River for approximately three miles. You'll reach a "Y" in the road, and Fish Ford is located at the end of the right-hand turn. While the initial approach is via paved roads, the final stretch to the campground itself might transition to dirt or gravel. Reviews suggest the road in is generally paved, but some sections might be rough or washed out, requiring careful driving. Despite this, it's generally considered traversable for most vehicles, though larger RVs might find some spots challenging due to potential deep sand or limited maneuvering space. Its remote location ensures a secluded feeling, yet it's close enough to I-70 for relatively convenient access from other parts of Utah and neighboring states. This balance of remoteness and accessibility makes it a compelling choice for locals seeking a true wilderness experience without venturing too far off the grid.

As a primitive BLM campground, Fish Ford CG offers fundamental services designed for self-sufficient campers:

• Campsites: The campground offers a modest number of individual campsites. While not always clearly delineated on a map (as one reviewer noted), sites typically include space for a tent or vehicle. Some sites may have basic amenities like a fire pit.
• Vault Toilets: A key amenity for a primitive site, Fish Ford CG provides vault toilets. One review humorously described them as "Gnarly vault 🚽," implying they are functional but basic, typical of remote BLM facilities. Campers should always bring their own toilet paper.
• No Potable Water: It is critical for all campers to understand that Fish Ford CG does not have a source of potable (drinking) water. All water needed for drinking, cooking, and hygiene must be packed in by campers.
• No Utility Hookups: There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups available, making it unsuitable for RVs requiring full hookups. This is a true boondocking-style experience.
• No Trash Receptacles: Fish Ford operates under a strict "pack it in, pack it out" policy. There are no trash cans or dumpsters on site, and campers are responsible for removing all their waste, including human waste if not using the vault toilets.
• Fire Pits: While not explicitly listed for every site, primitive campgrounds often have existing fire rings. However, fire restrictions are common in the Utah desert, especially during dry seasons, so checking current bans is paramount.

Fish Ford CG's appeal lies in its rugged beauty and the immersive desert experience it provides:

• Remote and Secluded Atmosphere: A primary highlight is its remote nature. It's "not well known," leading to fewer crowds and a greater sense of peace and solitude, ideal for escaping the bustle of everyday life.
• Vast BLM Land Access: The campground is surrounded by "Tons of BLM land on all sides for camping," offering extensive opportunities for dispersed camping beyond the main sites and for exploring the vast public lands.
• Stunning Desert Scenery: While it can appear "apocalyptic" in windy conditions, the landscape offers a unique, stark beauty with expansive views, open terrain, and dramatic skies. This is classic Utah desert.
• Colorado River Proximity: Being located near the Colorado River implies potential access for bank fishing (check regulations), or simply enjoying the tranquil sounds and views of the river in a less crowded setting than areas closer to Moab.
• Kokopelli Trail Access: Fish Ford CG serves as a connector to the renowned Kokopelli Trail, a multi-use trail popular with mountain bikers and off-road enthusiasts, offering direct access to challenging and scenic routes.
• Excellent Stargazing: Far from light pollution, the clear, dark desert nights offer incredible opportunities for stargazing and astrophotography.
• Primitive Camping Experience: For those who appreciate a true wilderness experience without the comforts of developed campgrounds, Fish Ford offers the perfect setting to test self-reliance and connect deeply with nature.

Fish Ford CG is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), specifically through the Moab Field Office. As a first-come, first-served primitive campground, there is no direct reservation line for individual sites. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, including current conditions, road accessibility, and critical fire restrictions, locals should contact the BLM directly.

Phone: (435) 259-2100 (BLM Moab Field Office)

Address: Cisco, UT 84515, USA (This is a general area. For precise directions, refer to BLM maps or use GPS coordinates, often found on BLM or recreation websites for "Fish Ford Recreation Site").

It is always highly recommended to call the BLM Moab Field Office or check their official website before heading out to ensure you have the latest information and are prepared for the conditions of this remote site.

For us Utah locals who seek authentic wilderness experiences and a profound connection with our state's unique landscapes, Fish Ford CG near Cisco is an ideal destination. Its remote, unassuming nature means fewer crowds, allowing for a truly peaceful and immersive escape into the desert. While the amenities are minimal, this is precisely its charm – it encourages self-sufficiency and a deeper appreciation for the raw beauty of our natural environment. The proximity to the Colorado River and direct access to the Kokopelli Trail make it a perfect base for river adventures, mountain biking, or simply exploring the vast BLM lands surrounding it. For those moments when the bustling national parks feel too crowded, Fish Ford offers a serene alternative, a place where the quiet of the desert, the vastness of the sky, and the rugged beauty of the red rock country truly take center stage. It's a testament to the diverse camping opportunities available in our backyard, providing a unique and unforgettable experience for every Utahn eager to explore the Land of Zion.

Fish Ford CG

Cisco, UT 84515, USA