Bowery Creek Group Rec Site
4.6519 reviews138 South Main Street, Loa, UT 84747
Bowery Creek Group Rec Site
$12.00 - $65.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The group site fee is $65 per night. Single-family campers may use group sites at the single rate ($12 per day) when not reserved. Vehicles may incur an additional fee if not reserved, and exact fees can be checked at Recreation.gov.
About this campground
Nestled within the tranquil Bowery Creek Campground, this group recreation site offers the perfect gathering place for large families and organizations seeking a memorable day in nature. With space for up to 100 guests and 15 vehicles, visitors find themselves immersed in a serene forest setting where towering pines mingle with graceful aspens, creating natural shade and a peaceful atmosphere for picnics, reunions, and outdoor celebrations.
Bowery Creek Group Rec Site focuses on group day-use picnicking and recreational activities. It is not suitable for tent or RV camping, and primitive camping options are limited due to the absence of overnight stays.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at Bowery Creek, where the legacy of the 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps lives on through carefully preserved structures that tell the story of America's conservation heritage. This remarkable site has become a natural classroom, drawing college geology students who come to study the fascinating rock formations and ancient geological features that make this area a treasure trove of earth science discovery.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of mountain weather at Bowery Creek, where summer days unfold under brilliantly clear skies and refreshingly comfortable temperatures. The peak camping season brings remarkably dry conditions with rare rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Early spring and late fall adventurers should come prepared for possible snow dustings that transform the landscape into a winter wonderland, adding a touch of seasonal magic to the experience.
ElevationPerched at an invigorating 5,900 feet above sea level, Bowery Creek offers visitors a refreshing mountain escape where crisp, clean air and naturally cooler temperatures provide welcome relief from summer heat. This elevated paradise creates the perfect climate for outdoor recreation, with the altitude lending a special quality to the light and atmosphere that mountain lovers cherish.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom its privileged position on a gently sloping hillside, Bowery Creek commands breathtaking views of the shimmering waters of Fish Lake below. The landscape comes alive with the interplay of stately pines and quaking aspens, their contrasting greens creating a tapestry of color that shifts with the seasons. This natural amphitheater provides visitors with front-row seats to nature's daily performances, from sunrise reflections on the lake to the evening alpenglow on distant peaks.
Geological RegionDramatically positioned on a scenic hillside slope that descends toward the pristine waters of Fish Lake, this geological wonderland showcases nature's artistry through its distinctive terrain. The harmonious blend of pine and aspen forests creates a diverse ecosystem that thrives on these ancient slopes, where every rock formation and natural contour tells a story millions of years in the making.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe site includes wheelchair-friendly flush toilets located between the two loops of the campground. However, other accessibility features are not explicitly detailed.
Sites SizeSome campsites are described as small, with larger sites such as double sites (e.g., #34 and #35) recommended for those with large trailers.
Sites PrivacySites at the campground vary in privacy, with some spaces described as tightly configured and others offering scenic views and spacing amidst the aspen trees.
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor large trailers, double sites such as #34 and #35 are recommended. Spot #31 is ideal for views.
Best CampsitesSite numbers 31, 34, and 35 are praised for their views and space.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group sites accommodate up to 100 people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has two loops connected by a road lined with group sites. One loop features grassy areas and volleyball courts, while the other runs along Oak Creek.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May to September.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or the Fillmore Ranger District Office.
Walk-in AvailabilitySeveral first-come, first-served sites are available. Users noted that some reserved sites were not utilized.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are not explicitly mentioned.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bowery Creek Group Rec Site offers nearby recreational opportunities including fishing, boating, hiking, and OHV riding. Scenic drives and group picnicking are explicitly mentioned as activity highlights.
Hiking
User reviews mention "lots of trails to hike" but do not specify trail lengths or difficulty levels.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include rainbow and brook trout. User reviews praise "great fishing on the lake" as a highlight of the camping experience.Biking
Lake trails are described as fun for biking by users.Boating
Boating opportunities are available, with the lake providing a picturesque backdrop for water activities. Detailed docking facilities are not mentioned.Winter Activities
The campground is closed outside the May-September season, and thus winter activities are not applicable.Water Sports
Water skiing, rafting, kayaking, sailing, and other water sports are not offered at this site.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must follow local fire restrictions.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife, such as bears, requiring proper food storage. Users also noted windy conditions at times.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 17.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Fremont River Ranger District (138 South Main Street, Loa, UT 84747; Phone: (435) 836-2800; Hours: Monday-Friday, 8am - 4:30pm, closed on federal holidays).
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season runs from late May through September.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available at the site itself, requiring visitors to dispose of waste at shared dumpsters located between Bowery and Mackinaw Campgrounds. This has been flagged as inconvenient, especially for waste like fish guts.
Proximity to water featuresFish Lake is nearby, offering recreational opportunities such as fishing and scenic views.
Common complaintsSome users reported poor shade availability in certain areas. A notable complaint involved a camp host double-booking a site and causing inconvenience to paying guests.
HostHosts (David and Carol) are frequently praised for their friendliness and helpfulness.
Campground Map
138 South Main Street, Loa, UT 84747
Driving directionsBowery Creek Group Site is 42.3 miles east of Richfield, Utah. Head east on UT-118 N/E 300 N toward N 100 E 0.8 mi. Continue straight onto UT-119 E 8.8 miles. Turn right onto UT-24 E for 23.1 miles then turn left onto UT-25 N for approximately 9.6 miles. Campground is on the left (north) side of the road.
Dirt parking is available, but no specific notes on road quality.Nearby places
Richfield (42.3 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies not explicitly mentioned
users may need to check nearby towns like Richfield.
Camper Reviews
4.7
19 reviews
Bowery Creek Group Rec Site is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise the scenic views, cleanliness of facilities, and helpful campground hosts, though some complaints include lack of shade in lower areas and the absence of garbage cans. Several users recommend visiting during quieter times to enjoy the lake and surroundings.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews
What Campers Love
"Beautiful place to camp," "Friendly Camp Host," "Great campground overlooking the lake," and "Views are picture perfect" highlight the campground's natural beauty and well-maintained facilities.
Based on 19 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users noted the lack of garbage cans and described driving trash out to shared dumpsters as inconvenient. Limited cell service and absence of showers were also flagged. One user reported an...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend reserving double sites for larger trailers, visiting before the main season for quieter experiences, and bringing food as nearby amenities may be unavailable during off-peak times.
Based on 19 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews indicate fewer visitors and quieter conditions before the main season starts in May and after Labor Day in September. Wind and lack of shade are noted during peak summer, while spring and...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The hosts of the site were kind and helpful, and we can't wait to visit again!!" "Awesome campground overlooking the lake." "Fantastic place to camp. Beautiful views of the lake." "Not a lot of...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #34 and #35 were praised as double sites suitable for large trailers. Spot #31 was described as having "killer views."
Based on 19 reviewsAccessibility Features
The wheelchair-friendly toilet is located between the two campground loops. No specific feedback about other accessibility features was provided in user reviews.
Based on 19 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets must be leashed at all times. User reviews did not provide specific feedback about pet-related experiences.
Based on 19 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025