Upper Six Mile Ponds Campground

Welcome to the heart of Utah's stunning high country, where the air is crisp, the stars are bright, and nature's beauty is on full display. For residents of Utah seeking a true escape from the everyday, a hidden gem awaits in the Manti-La Sal National Forest: the Upper Six Mile Ponds Campground. This serene and picturesque location is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a gateway to outdoor adventure and a peaceful retreat nestled among towering aspens and pines.

The Upper Six Mile Ponds Campground offers a quintessential high-elevation camping experience, making it a favorite for those who appreciate cool mountain temperatures and breathtaking scenery. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway with the family, a fishing trip with friends, or a solo journey to reconnect with nature, this campground provides the perfect backdrop. Its tranquil setting, combined with access to a variety of recreational activities, makes it an ideal spot for anyone looking to explore the natural wonders that define Utah's landscape.

This article is your comprehensive guide to the Upper Six Mile Ponds Campground, designed to help you plan your visit and make the most of your time in this beautiful area. We'll cover everything from its location and the services it offers to the unique features that make it a special place. Get ready to discover why so many Utah locals consider this campground a top destination for their outdoor pursuits.

Location and Accessibility

The Upper Six Mile Ponds Campground is situated at an impressive elevation of approximately 9,000 feet, providing a refreshing escape from the summer heat of Utah's valleys. It is located within the Manti-La Sal National Forest, a vast and diverse area known for its stunning landscapes, which range from high mountains to desert canyons. The campground is found at Forest Rd 0047, Manti, UT 84642, USA, placing it in a remote yet accessible part of the state.

Reaching the campground typically involves traveling on scenic mountain roads, which adds to the adventure. From the town of Manti, the drive takes you up into the mountains, offering beautiful views along the way. While the roads are generally well-maintained, it's always wise to check for current conditions, especially during the shoulder seasons when snow may still be present at higher elevations. The journey itself is part of the experience, providing a gradual transition from developed areas to the untouched wilderness of the national forest. Its proximity to Manti makes it a convenient option for residents of central Utah, while still feeling a world away from urban life.

Services Offered

• Campsites: The campground features a number of individual campsites suitable for both tents and small to medium-sized RVs. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, allowing campers to comfortably prepare meals and enjoy evenings around a campfire.

• Vault Toilets: For the convenience of all visitors, the campground provides clean and well-maintained vault toilets. While not a flushing system, they are a significant amenity for a remote, high-elevation location, ensuring a more comfortable stay.

• Drinking Water: A crucial service for any extended stay, potable water is available on-site through a hand pump. This eliminates the need for campers to pack in all their water, though it's always a good practice to bring a backup supply.

• Dumpster Service: To help maintain the pristine natural environment, trash receptacles are provided at the campground. Visitors are encouraged to dispose of their waste properly, upholding the "Leave No Trace" principles that protect our public lands.

Features / Highlights

• High-Elevation Beauty: One of the most significant highlights of Upper Six Mile Ponds is its altitude. The cool mountain air and lush, high-elevation vegetation provide a refreshing contrast to the often-hot summers in the lower parts of Utah. The surrounding forest of aspens and conifers is spectacular, particularly in the fall when the leaves change to brilliant shades of gold.

• Proximity to Ponds: The campground is located near the Six Mile Ponds, which are a major attraction. These ponds are a popular spot for fishing, particularly for brook trout. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make for a perfect day of angling, or simply a peaceful place to sit and observe nature.

• Scenic Hiking and ATV Trails: The area around Upper Six Mile Ponds is a network of trails that cater to various outdoor activities. Hikers can explore the surrounding mountains and forests, while ATV and off-road vehicle enthusiasts can access designated trails. This makes the campground an excellent base camp for a day of exploration.

• Peaceful Atmosphere: Compared to some of the more well-known and crowded campgrounds in Utah, Upper Six Mile Ponds offers a more tranquil and secluded experience. The quiet setting allows for true relaxation and a deep connection with the natural world, making it a perfect spot for those seeking solitude or a peaceful family retreat.

Contact Information

For specific inquiries or to check on current conditions, you may wish to contact the Manti-La Sal National Forest Service office.

Address: Forest Rd 0047, Manti, UT 84642, USA

Phone: Note that there is no specific, direct phone number for the campground itself. For general information, please refer to the Manti-La Sal National Forest Manti-La Sal Ranger District offices.

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Upper Six Mile Ponds Campground for your next outing is a decision to embrace the authentic Utah mountain experience. What truly sets this place apart is its perfect blend of rustic charm and convenient, basic amenities. It’s remote enough to feel like a true escape, yet accessible enough for a weekend trip. The high elevation provides a unique and desirable environment, particularly during the hot summer months when many Utahns are looking for a cool place to relax.

The opportunities for recreation are abundant and cater to a variety of interests. Whether you're a passionate angler hoping to catch a beautiful brook trout, a hiker eager to explore new trails, or a family simply looking for a quiet place to roast marshmallows and tell stories by the fire, this campground delivers. The calm, reflective waters of the Six Mile Ponds add a layer of peaceful beauty that is hard to match. It’s a place where you can disconnect from digital life and reconnect with the people you are with and the natural world around you.

For those who value simplicity and genuine outdoor living, Upper Six Mile Ponds is an ideal choice. It's not a resort with endless amenities, but rather a place that celebrates the simple joys of camping—the scent of pine, the sound of a crackling fire, and the stunning canvas of a starlit night sky. For residents of Utah who know and love their state's diverse landscapes, this campground is a perfect example of the high mountain beauty that makes our region so special. It offers a genuine and memorable camping experience that is both refreshing and invigorating.

Upper Six Mile Ponds Campground

Forest Rd 0047, Manti, UT 84642, USA