Paiute Campground

Closed — Closed for winter. Reopens in spring 2026, typically in May depending on snow conditions. The campground operates May through September or until snow closes the road.

About

Paiute Campground sits at 8,800 feet elevation in the Fishlake National Forest, 29 miles north of Loa, Utah, adjacent to Johnson Valley Reservoir. The campground features 48 pull-through sites spread across an open sagebrush-covered hillside with no tree cover, offering sweeping panoramic views and a true high-desert camping experience. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations accepted. The campground provides vault toilets and potable water from hand pumps during the regular operating season from May through September. Each campsite includes a picnic table and fire pit. Campers should bring their own firewood. OHVs are permitted for ingress and egress only to access adjacent trail systems, including the Gooseberry and Great Western Trails to the north. Recreation opportunities abound in the area. Johnson Valley Reservoir offers fishing and boating with a nearby boat ramp. Fish Lake, Utah's largest natural mountain lake, is easily accessible and famous for its 20-40 pound Mackinaw lake trout, as well as rainbow trout and splake. The non-motorized trail from the campground leads to Tasha Creek and beyond, providing excellent hiking opportunities. The 5-mile Pelican Canyon Trail and the Lakeshore National Recreation Trail are also nearby, offering stunning views of the surrounding forests and lakes.

Directions

Approximately 49 miles east of Richfield, Utah. Head east on UT-118 N 0.8 miles. Continue straight onto UT-119 E 8.8 miles. Turn right onto UT-24 E 23.1 miles. Turn left onto UT-25 N 10.0 miles. Continue onto FR640 6.0 miles, then turn left into the campground entrance.

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