ORANGE OLSEN Introduce
For those in Utah seeking a unique and comfortable way to experience the high-elevation wilderness, the Orange Olsen site offers a distinct and memorable alternative to traditional camping. It’s not a typical campground with tent sites and RV pads, but rather a pair of rustic-yet-equipped cabins available for rent. Nestled in the Manti-La Sal National Forest near Joes Valley Reservoir, this location provides a perfect blend of seclusion and convenience. It's an ideal basecamp for families, friends, and anyone who wants to enjoy the rugged beauty of Utah’s mountains without fully roughing it.
The site consists of a main dwelling and a smaller cabin, both of which provide a cozy and clean place to stay. This is a great choice for those who are new to the outdoors or who prefer a solid roof over their heads, especially given the unpredictable weather that can occur at an elevation of 7,000 feet. The setting is beautiful, with panoramic views of Joes Valley and the surrounding landscape of pinyon-juniper and ponderosa pine trees. While there is no dense shade right at the dwelling, the open meadow offers a feeling of expansive freedom. This area is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide array of activities right from your doorstep.
It is important to note that Orange Olsen is an administrative site, not a traditional campground with individual campsites. The facilities are centered around the two rental units, so planning your stay requires a different approach than a typical camping trip. However, this is precisely what makes it such a special and sought-after destination. It provides a private, personal retreat that still offers the convenience of essential amenities, allowing you to focus on the fun and adventure that await just outside your door.
Orange Olsen is located in a stunning area near Orangeville, Utah, at the address of Orangeville, UT 84537, USA. It is situated within the Manti-La Sal National Forest at an elevation of approximately 7,000 feet. The site overlooks Joes Valley Reservoir, a major hub for recreation in the area.
To get there from Orangeville, you will proceed west on Utah Highway 29 for about 10 miles. You’ll then continue on Highway 29 around the north end of Joes Valley Reservoir to Forest Road 0144, where a sign will direct you to the Orange Olsen Administrative Site. The road is gravel, but it is typically well-maintained and accessible by most vehicles. The presence of on-site parking at the cabins makes it easy to unload and get settled in. The accessibility of this location is a key benefit, providing a remote feeling without the hassle of a long, difficult drive.
As a cabin rental, Orange Olsen offers a different set of services than a standard campground. The focus is on providing a comfortable and convenient dwelling.
Public Restrooms and Running Water: The cabins are equipped with flush toilets and showers, a major advantage over traditional camping. The running water simplifies everything from cooking to personal hygiene.
Picnic Tables: Both the dwelling and the cabin are equipped with picnic tables, providing a designated outdoor space for meals and gatherings.
On-site Parking: Dedicated on-site parking is available, ensuring easy access to your vehicle. It is important to note that while trailers are permitted, RVs and motorhomes are not allowed at the cabins themselves.
Equipped Kitchen: The cabins come with a kitchen area, including a sink, a propane stove, and simple cookware. While a refrigerator is not available, having these basic kitchen tools makes meal preparation much easier than traditional camp cooking.
Orange Olsen’s unique features make it a truly special place to stay in Utah’s wilderness.
Comfort and Cleanliness: Reviews consistently mention that the cabins are clean and provide comfortable beds. This level of comfort is a huge draw for those who want an upgraded camping experience. The running water and showers are a luxury in a rustic setting.
Good for Kids: The site is noted as "good for kids," as the cabin provides a secure and comfortable base for families. The surrounding area offers plenty of space for children to play and explore safely.
Access to Joes Valley Reservoir: The site provides direct access to the Joes Valley Reservoir recreation area. Just minutes away, the reservoir is a hub for boating, fishing, and water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking. There are boat ramps on both the east and west shorelines for easy access.
Bouldering and Fishing: The area is renowned for its world-class bouldering in nearby Straight and Cottonwood Canyons. For anglers, the reservoir and nearby mountain fisheries at Grassy Lake and Pete's Hole offer excellent opportunities to catch a variety of fish. The area also connects to the 370-mile Arapeen Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Trail System, making it a great destination for ATV and dirt bike enthusiasts.
Stunning Views: The panoramic views of Joes Valley from the site are breathtaking. The landscape is a beautiful mix of high desert and mountain ecosystems, providing a stunning backdrop for your stay.
For information and reservations, it is best to contact the Manti-La Sal National Forest directly, as reservations are typically made through their authorized booking services.
Address: Orangeville, UT 84537, USA
Phone: (435) 384-2372 or +1 435-384-2372
Choosing Orange Olsen is about prioritizing comfort, convenience, and a unique experience in the heart of Utah’s wilderness. It is an ideal option for those who find traditional tent camping too rugged but still want to be close to nature. The fact that the site is a clean and well-equipped cabin rental is a significant selling point, providing amenities like flush toilets and showers that are rare in such a remote-feeling location. The presence of running water and a kitchen space simplifies the logistics of a trip, making it easier for families to manage meals and clean up.
Furthermore, the location is unbeatable for those interested in a wide range of outdoor activities. Whether you're into bouldering, fishing, boating, or exploring OHV trails, everything is within easy reach. The panoramic views of Joes Valley are a constant reminder of the incredible landscape you’re in. While some reviews mention that the electricity may be unreliable and there is no refrigerator, these are minor trade-offs for the overall quality of the experience. It's a place to be prepared for minor inconveniences while focusing on the major benefits of a secluded, comfortable, and activity-rich getaway. It’s a perfect spot for creating lasting memories with family and friends in a truly beautiful part of Utah.
ORANGE OLSEN Details
Amenities
- Picnic tables
- Public restroom
- Restroom
- Running water
Children
- Good for kids
Parking
- On-site parking
ORANGE OLSEN Photos










ORANGE OLSEN Location
ORANGE OLSEN Reviews
fridgecabincookersdwellingtable
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1This is a great forest service cabin. The family enjoyed it very much. However, the electricity did not work as promised. Make sure to bring an alternate light source. Also there is no fridge. The lake is beautiful and our group enjoyed fishing, bouldering, and water sports. Not really crowded, good spot to get away!
June 11 · Steve GI've stayed at alot of these rough dwellings. This one was a little more rough... water was off and the place was winterized but I think it was because the heater did not work. There was also no fire place like most of them have. On the plus side the beds were fairly comfortable and it was quite clean. We found the mud up on the mountain and had a great time!
October 12 · Ryan MillerThe good:We would certainly stay again! One of the top five cabins/lookouts we’ve stayed in out of 40. All the comforts of home accept no refrigerator, or AC.The solar powered plugs and lights are very helpful.There are four rooms. The main kitchen/dining room, bedroom with two sets of bunk beds with ladders for top bunks with super comfy mattresses, the bathroom and a mudroom.Nobody has mentioned the FREE WIFI courtesy of the local utility company! While there is no cell service you could use WIFI calling if needed.It has running water, kitchen sink, propane stove/oven/heater/water heater, dishes, pots, pans, glasses & silverware. 6 place dining table.There is a bathroom with shower/tub, sink and even one of those fancy indoor toilets with TP! HA!Nice picnic table with fire pit but no wood is supplied. There is also no ax or maul so make sure to bring those if needed.With the dwelling available next door if you had a large group you could rent both at the same time.The nearby lake with boating and fishing and many nearby road/trails will keep you busy.The bad:They have a digital front door lock so there is no latch to attach your own lock while you are away. Who knows how many people have the code and how often it is changed. Don’t leave any valuables while gone.As another mentioned there is no way to lock the front door from inside either when you go to bed! People do get their dates confused so there is a chance somebody could come in while you are sleeping.The free WIFI is known about by some locals as they came up at different times even at night just to use it. They ignored the “Official Vehicles Only” sign and drive right up to the tower.It would be nice if a locked gate and some fencing were put at the front to block access.There are a few trees between the dwelling and the cabin providing some privacy. If you want to be alone and not hear or see others then this is not a place for you.Limited rental window dates.
November 13 · Tripper DudesClean, remote but close to water, beautiful, perfect night sky, accommodating
August 20 · Victoria LloydNice clean cabins. Has power for lights, phone charger, not for Xbox, coffee, and other cookers. Has outdoor table and fire ring. Plenty of space. Has stove, and heater. Does not have fridge or bedding as mentioned on site.
May 13 · Dillon johns
More Camping Near Me

Forest Rd 0137, Orangeville, UT 84537, USA

Unnamed Road, Orangeville, UT 84537, USA

Ferron, UT 84523, USA

115 Canyon Rd, Ferron, UT 84523, USA

865 Mohrland Rd, Huntington, UT 84528, USA

572H+JW, Fruitland, UT 84027, USA

Camp 4, Heber City, UT 84032, USA

Camp Snow Rd, Heber City, UT 84032, USA

Utah, USA

Labyrinth Campground B, Moab, UT 84532, USA

Labyrinth Campground, Labyrinth Campground A A, Moab, UT 84532, USA

Canyonlands National Park, Hardscrabble Bottom Rd, Moab, UT 84532, USA
Categories
Top Visited Sites






Top Searches
Trending The Campfire Posts





