Utah / Garfield County / Fishlake National Forest

Lower Bowns

Closed — Closed for the season. Reopens Spring 2026. The campground typically operates from April until snow closes the road.

About

Lower Bowns Campground sits on the eastern side of Boulder Mountain along the shore of Lower Bowns Reservoir at an elevation of 7,000 feet. Part of the Fishlake National Forest and managed by the Fremont River Ranger District, this campground offers a peaceful setting with stunning views. Boulder Mountain rises to the west, while Capitol Reef National Park's Waterpocket Fold and the Henry Mountains are visible to the east. The campground includes four accessible single sites that can accommodate up to 10 people each, plus one group site that can hold up to 50 people and 4 vehicles. The area is sparsely forested with pinyon pines and juniper trees, providing limited shade. Gravel roads and parking spurs serve the sites, and vault toilets are available. No potable water is available on-site, so campers must bring their own. Lower Bowns Reservoir is popular for non-motorized boating including canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and float tubes, as well as fishing for rainbow, brook, and cutthroat trout. The nearby Rosebud ATV Trail attracts OHV enthusiasts, and the area offers excellent hiking and biking opportunities. Capitol Reef National Park is just 45 minutes away, and scenic Utah Highway 12, a National Scenic Byway, provides access through stunning red rock canyon country. The campground operates seasonally from April until snow closes the road, typically in late fall.

Directions

From Torrey, Utah, head east on UT-24 for approximately one mile. Turn right (south) onto UT-12 for 17.1 miles. Turn left (east) on FR 168 for 3.1 miles. The campground will be on the left.

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