Upper Joes Valley Campground

For Utahns looking to escape the heat and immerse themselves in a high-mountain setting, Upper Joes Valley Campground is an ideal destination. Located in a scenic high mountain valley at an elevation of approximately 7,000 feet, this campground offers a refreshing change of pace and temperature. It is a place where the air is crisp, the views are expansive, and the tranquility of nature is front and center. The campground is situated with views of the vast Joes Valley Reservoir, providing a beautiful backdrop for a relaxing getaway.

Upper Joes Valley Campground is part of the Manti-La Sal National Forest, a region known for its diverse landscapes and abundant recreational opportunities. The campground provides a comfortable and convenient basecamp for exploring the area, which is popular for a variety of activities from fishing and boating to hiking and off-road vehicle (OHV) trail riding. Unlike a dispersed camping site, this campground offers a number of key amenities that make for a more comfortable experience, while still retaining a sense of being in the rugged wilderness. Its first-come, first-served policy for some sites means you can often find a spot even when other campgrounds are full, though many sites are now reservable, so it's always wise to check in advance.

The atmosphere here is generally peaceful, especially during weekdays, and the sites are often well-spaced out, giving campers a sense of privacy. The beautiful scenery, from the juniper and pinyon pine trees to the stunning reservoir vistas, makes every moment spent here a true appreciation of Utah's natural beauty. It's a great place to slow down, relax, and enjoy the simple pleasures of the outdoors.

Upper Joes Valley Campground is located at Forest Rd 0014, Orangeville, UT 84537, USA. The campground is easily accessible from the town of Orangeville via State Road 29, a scenic drive that takes you up into the mountains. The roads to the campground are well-maintained, and many are paved, though some turn to dirt as you gain elevation. While the roads can be narrow and winding, they are generally passable for most vehicles, including RVs and trailers.

The on-site parking at each of the campground’s 26 campsites makes it easy to set up your vehicle and get your gear organized. While some campers have noted that the sites may not be perfectly level, they are all usable and provide a convenient place to park. The campground's location provides a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding Manti-La Sal National Forest, with many popular recreational areas and trails just a short drive away.

Upper Joes Valley Campground provides a selection of services that make for a comfortable stay while maintaining a rustic feel.

• Public Restrooms: The campground is equipped with vault toilets that are noted for being clean and well-maintained. While there are no showers, these facilities are a significant convenience for all campers.

• Running Water: Potable drinking water is available at the campground from spigots, which is a major benefit and reduces the need for campers to pack in all of their own water. This makes for a much easier and more comfortable camping trip.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Pits: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit, making it easy to prepare meals and enjoy a campfire in the evenings. It is important to always check for current fire restrictions before building a fire.

• Tent and RV Sites: The campground offers a mix of single and double sites suitable for both tent camping and RVs. Many sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 30 to 40 feet in length, providing flexibility for different types of campers.

Upper Joes Valley Campground boasts several key features that make it a compelling choice for a camping trip.

• Proximity to Joes Valley Reservoir: The campground offers beautiful views of Joes Valley Reservoir, a major draw for the area. While the path down to the water may be a bit of a hike, the reservoir offers excellent opportunities for boating, fishing for a variety of species like cutthroat trout and tiger muskie, and other water sports like water skiing and canoeing.

• Access to OHV Trails: The campground is a great base for exploring the Arapeen Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Trail System, with nearby trailheads providing access to hundreds of miles of trails for ATVs, dirt bikes, and mountain bikes.

• Hiking and Bouldering: The area is known for its world-class bouldering in nearby canyons and offers numerous hiking trails with spectacular views. This provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure for all skill levels.

• Natural Beauty: The campground is set in a beautiful landscape of juniper, pinyon pine, and sagebrush, with aspen and pine trees dotting the surrounding hills. The high elevation provides a refreshing escape, and the expansive views and clean air are a major draw for visitors.

• Peaceful Atmosphere: While the campground can get busy on weekends, it is known for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere, especially on weekdays. The well-spaced sites and natural surroundings contribute to a sense of tranquility that is highly valued by campers.

For information on reservations, current conditions, and general inquiries, it is best to contact the Manti-La Sal National Forest directly.

• Address: Forest Rd 0014, Orangeville, UT 84537, USA

• Phone: For campground inquiries, you can contact the Manti-La Sal National Forest at (435) 384-2372.

Upper Joes Valley Campground is a fantastic choice for a number of compelling reasons. Its high-elevation location is a major selling point, offering a cool and comfortable escape from the summer heat of Utah's lower valleys. The presence of potable water and clean restrooms is a huge convenience that makes the camping experience much more enjoyable. The variety of sites that can accommodate both tents and RVs, along with on-site parking, makes it a flexible option for different types of campers.

The biggest draw, however, is the access to the wealth of recreational opportunities in the surrounding area. Whether your passion is boating and fishing on the reservoir, bouldering in the canyons, or hiking the numerous trails, you'll find plenty to do. The peace and quiet of the campground, particularly on weekdays, is a major bonus for those seeking a truly relaxing retreat. While some reviews mention the noise from ATVs and generators on weekends, this is often a trade-off for the accessibility to the extensive OHV trail system. It's a place where you can enjoy the serenity of the mountains during the day and gather around a campfire under a star-filled sky at night. For a well-rounded camping trip that combines stunning natural beauty with a variety of outdoor activities, Upper Joes Valley Campground is a wonderful choice for your next Utah adventure.

Upper Joes Valley Campground

Forest Rd 0014, Orangeville, UT 84537, USA