Carmel Campground
03 reviewsCarmel Campground, Manila, UT 84046, USA
Carmel Campground
$13.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$13.00
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
Fees range between $13-$20 per night for single units, depending on the season.
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About this campground
Nestled within the breathtaking Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, Carmel Campground offers adventurers a tranquil retreat where simplicity meets natural splendor. Here, beneath towering cliffs and rustling cottonwoods, you'll find everything needed for an authentic outdoor experience—sturdy picnic tables for memorable meals under the stars, fire rings perfect for evening storytelling, well-maintained vault toilets, and convenient trash disposal. This hidden gem invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature's timeless rhythms.
Carmel Campground offers a mix of primitive tent sites and combined sites suitable for small RVs.
Historical SignificanceJourney through millions of years of Earth's history along the remarkable Sheep Creek Geological Loop, where ancient rock layers tell stories written long before humans walked these lands. The nearby Flaming Gorge Dam stands as a testament to human engineering prowess, creating the stunning reservoir that has become a recreational paradise. These landmarks weave together threads of geological wonder and modern achievement, offering visitors a unique glimpse into both natural history and human innovation.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Carmel Campground awakens with perfect camping weather, welcoming visitors with comfortable temperatures that dance between crisp 31°F mornings and pleasant 65°F afternoons. These golden months offer endless blue skies and gentle breezes ideal for hiking, fishing, and stargazing. As autumn fades, winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, though freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall make this season best admired from afar or by the most intrepid cold-weather enthusiasts.
ElevationPerched at an invigorating 6,200 feet above sea level, Carmel Campground offers a true high-country experience. This elevation brings cooler temperatures, clearer air, and spectacular star-filled nights, though visitors coming from lower altitudes should take time to adjust to the thinner air. The reward for this gentle acclimatization is access to some of Utah's most stunning high-desert landscapes and the refreshing mountain atmosphere that makes summer camping truly delightful.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle murmur of Sheep Creek as it winds through a diverse tapestry of cottonwood groves and spruce stands, all set against the dramatic backdrop of towering Navajo cliffs. Tall grasses sway in the breeze, creating a natural symphony that complements the stunning geological formations surrounding the campground. This remarkable landscape showcases nature's artistry, where ancient red rock cliffs meet verdant riverside habitats, creating endless opportunities for photography, contemplation, and exploration.
Geological RegionStrategically positioned at the gateway to the awe-inspiring Sheep Creek Geological Loop, Carmel Campground serves as your basecamp for exploring one of Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area's most spectacular features. The campground rests in the shadow of majestic Navajo cliffs, their layered faces revealing eons of geological history. Just minutes away, Sheep Creek Bay and the vast Flaming Gorge Reservoir beckon water enthusiasts, while the surrounding landscape offers a masterclass in Utah's dramatic geological heritage, from ancient seabeds to towering sandstone monuments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly toilets are not available at this campground.
Sites SizeSites are dirt and gravel, suitable for tents and small RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is quiet and provides some privacy with a mix of cottonwood and spruce trees.
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to Sheep Creek for a more scenic and serene experience.
Best CampsitesSites near Sheep Creek are highlighted for their proximity to the creek and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 16 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Vehicles limited to two per single site and four per double site.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 14 sites, including 13 combined tent/RV sites and 1 tent-only site.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 13 through September 17, weather dependent.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not accepted; sites operate on a walk-up basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a walk-up basis; no reservations are accepted.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as reservations are not allowed.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Carmel Campground offers a range of outdoor recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and scenic views of the Sheep Creek Geological Loop. Seasonal activities such as observing Kokanee salmon spawning add vibrant wildlife experiences.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available and provide access to caves and natural wonders within the Sheep Creek Geological Loop. Nearby trails include Bear Canyon/Bootleg (1.5 miles), Canyon Rim (4 miles), and more.Fishing
Fishing is available in the Flaming Gorge Reservoir and Green River. Fish species include Mackinaw (Lake Trout), Utah Chub, Rainbow Trout, Channel Catfish, and Smallmouth Bass.Biking
User reviews suggest scenic bike rides in the Sheep Creek Scenic Byway, particularly during morning or evening hours.Boating
Boating opportunities are available at Sheep Creek Bay of Flaming Gorge Reservoir, with both motorized and non-motorized options. A boat ramp is provided.Wildlife viewing
Seasonal wildlife viewing includes vibrant Kokanee salmon spawning in late August through September.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive displays are available at the campground, enhancing appreciation of the surrounding area. Seasonal interpretive programs are provided at different locations.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned for this campground.Water Sports
Water sports such as waterskiing, rafting, and sailing are available at Flaming Gorge Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsThe rough dirt roads within the campground may pose a challenge for navigation. No potable water is available, and wildlife like bears may be nearby, requiring food storage precautions.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 14.6 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
Emergency services are accessible from the Flaming Gorge Ranger District Office and nearby towns like Manila.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay-September
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal is available, though recycling options are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresSheep Creek runs adjacent to the campground, and Sheep Creek Bay is nearby for water activities.
Common complaintsLack of potable water and rough roads are commonly reported issues.
HostAccording to user reviews, campground hosts are described as very friendly and attentive, with efforts to keep bathrooms clean.
Campground Map
Carmel Campground, Manila, UT 84046, USA
Driving directionsDrive 3 miles south of Manila, Utah on UT-44 and turn right on Forest Service Road 218, Sheep Creek Geological Loop Road. Head west for 6 miles to the Palisades Picnic Site.
Access is via dirt and gravel roads. The parking aprons and interior roads within the campground are also dirt, and are described as rough, making navigation potentially challenging for some vehicles.Nearby places
Manila - 3 miles
Nearby supplies
Marinas and lodges within the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area offer supplies ranging from groceries to firewood. Specific lodges include Flaming Gorge Lodge, Red Canyon Lodge, and Spirit Lake Lodge.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Carmel Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground’s cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and helpful staff. The scenic location near rock cliffs and Sheep Creek is often praised.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean bathrooms, a peaceful ambiance, and proximity to scenic areas such as Sheep Creek Geological Loop. Visitors appreciated the stargazing opportunities and friendly...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
No major complaints were noted in the reviews provided.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend exploring nearby hiking trails and caves, as well as cycling in the Sheep Creek Scenic Byway during cooler parts of the day.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest late summer as ideal for viewing Kokanee salmon spawning. Morning and evening hours are preferred for outdoor activities during hotter periods.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Amazing little campground! The bathrooms were kept clean and stocked and the family that tends to the campground were super nice." - Jen M
"Fantastic! Amazing location with creek and rock cliff...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific reviews addressing particular sites were provided.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair accessibility is limited as wheelchair-friendly toilets are not available.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted but must be kept on a leash per campground regulations.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025