Frying Pan
4.3327 reviews138 South Main PO Box 129, Loa, UT 84747, USA
Frying Pan
$25.00 - $110.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$110.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The standard non-electric site fee is $25 per night during the peak season. Group non-electric sites are available for $110 per night. Extra vehicles may incur a fee of $7.50 per day as stated on the website, but user reviews report a discrepancy where the hosts charge $10 per night per vehicle.
About this campground
Tucked away at 9,000 feet along the stunning Fishlake Scenic Byway, Frying Pan Campground offers an intimate escape from the crowds. This hidden gem welcomes families and groups alike, with thoughtfully designed single-family sites and a spacious group camping area. Modern conveniences like flush toilets and smooth paved roads blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, while nearby Fish Lake beckons with world-class fishing, scenic hiking trails, and peaceful boating opportunities. Despite its smaller size, this tranquil retreat provides all the essentials for an unforgettable mountain adventure.
Frying Pan Campground offers diverse camping accommodations, including single-family sites and group camping. The group site can host up to 100 people. RV camping and tent camping are supported, although no hookups are available.
Historical SignificanceWhile Frying Pan Campground may not boast ancient ruins or historic landmarks, its story unfolds through the experiences of generations of families who have made memories beneath its aspens. This peaceful corner of the Fishlake National Forest continues to serve as a gateway to outdoor traditions passed down through the years.
Weather and SeasonsPerched high in the mountains at 9,000 feet, Frying Pan Campground offers a refreshing escape from summer heat. When valley temperatures soar, campers here enjoy crisp mornings and pleasantly cool afternoons that rarely climb above the low 70s. As autumn arrives, the air turns crystal clear and invigorating. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, though freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall typically close the campground during these months. The high elevation ensures that even on the warmest summer days, evenings require a cozy campfire and warm layers.
ElevationAt 9,000 feet above sea level, Frying Pan Campground sits in that sweet spot where the air is thin enough to remind you you're in the mountains, but not so high that altitude becomes a concern for most visitors. This lofty perch guarantees refreshingly cool temperatures throughout the camping season and offers that distinctive mountain atmosphere where stars seem close enough to touch and morning coffee tastes somehow better in the crisp, pine-scented air.
Natural Features and SceneryRising from a windswept hillside adorned with silver-green sagebrush, Frying Pan Campground presents a unique high-desert meets mountain landscape. Graceful aspen groves dot the terrain, their leaves whispering secrets in the mountain breeze and providing pockets of dappled shade. From this elevated vantage point, sweeping views unfold across the north end of Fish Lake Basin, where the interplay of light and shadow creates an ever-changing canvas throughout the day. The contrast between the aromatic sagebrush slopes and the shimmering aspens creates a distinctly Western scene that captures the diverse beauty of Utah's high country.
Geological RegionFrying Pan Campground occupies a fascinating geological position within the Fish Lake Basin, where ancient forces sculpted a dramatic landscape of valleys and ridges. The campground's sagebrush-covered hillside tells a story of volcanic activity and glacial carving that shaped this high-elevation basin over millions of years. Perched above the valley floor, campers enjoy panoramic views that showcase the basin's unique topography, where aspen forests climb the slopes and open meadows stretch toward distant peaks. This elevated position not only provides stunning vistas but also offers a front-row seat to observe the geological tapestry that makes the Fish Lake region so captivating.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe group site is handicap accessible, with ample space for tents and parking according to user reviews.
Sites SizeReviews indicate some sites are small, but the group site is spacious and can accommodate up to 100 people. Individual sites vary in size, and one reviewer mentioned setting up a large tent in the gravel driveway due to limited flat tent spots.
Sites PrivacyIndividual sites are reported to be well-spaced, offering a decent level of privacy. However, a few reviewers noted limited shade at some sites.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers recommend site 4 for shade and the group site for large gatherings. Bring bug spray for mosquitoes and be prepared for limited shade at most sites.
Best CampsitesUsers praised site 4 for good shade and group site G1 for ample space and amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not explicitly mentioned.
Check-out
Check-out time is not explicitly mentioned.
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 16 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group site allows up to 100 people. Single-family sites vary in capacity.
Groups
The group site can accommodate up to 100 people and features picnic tables, a large campfire ring, and a spacious parking area. User reviews highlighted its accessibility and ample room for tents and RVs.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 10 sites: 4 reservable and the rest first-come, first-served. Sites are spaced apart for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15th to September 14th. Peak season begins May 15th and ends September 14th each year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFour sites are reservable, while the remaining are first-come, first-served.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations prior to arrival incur $10 fees, with late cancellations forfeiting the first night's fee. No refunds or modifications are allowed for Scan & Pay transactions.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Frying Pan Campground provides a variety of recreational activities. It's located near Fish Lake, Utah's largest natural mountain lake, which offers boating, fishing, swimming, and scuba diving opportunities. Hiking trails, including the Lakeshore National Recreation Trail and Pelican Canyon Trail, are nearby and provide scenic views and challenges for hikers.
Hiking
The Lakeshore National Recreation Trail offers hikers stunning lake views after climbing 900 feet in elevation. Additionally, the Pelican Canyon Trail near Bowery Creek Campground provides a 5-mile trek through meadows and dense forests of spruce, pine, and aspen.Fishing
Fish Lake is renowned for its 20-40 pound Mackinaw lake trout and also offers opportunities to catch rainbow trout and splake. Johnson Valley Reservoir nearby provides additional fishing options.Swimming
Swimming is a popular activity at Fish Lake, located just 3 miles from the Frying Pan Campground. Designated swimming areas are available at Fish Lake.Biking
Several reviewers noted that kids enjoyed riding bikes around the campground. Specific biking trails are not mentioned in the authoritative or user review sources.Boating
Boating and canoeing are common activities at Fish Lake. Visitors can rent boats at nearby resorts and access marinas.Wildlife viewing
The area around Frying Pan Campground is rich in wildlife. Reviewers have noted waking up to 'mooing cows and chirping birds,' and the sagebrush-covered hillside provides habitat for various species.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not detailed in the authoritative or user review sources.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and paddleboarding are available at Fish Lake, though specifics on rentals and facilities are mentioned only in relation to nearby resorts.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated rings. Firewood must be sourced locally to prevent pest spread.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsCattle roam freely in the area, leading to cow pies near campsites. The high elevation may pose challenges for visitors unaccustomed to altitude changes.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 17.1 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 can be accessed in Loa, approximately 15 miles from the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15th to September 14th.
Trash and recyclingThis is a 'pack it in-pack it out' facility, meaning there are no garbage services available. Visitors are reminded to bring their own garbage bags for trash removal.
Proximity to water featuresFish Lake is three miles south and provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water activities.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention issues with free-roaming cattle, limited tent space due to cow pies, and inconsistent charges for extra vehicles.
HostMixed reviews about campground hosts; some users found hosts friendly and informative, while others cited issues with moodiness and enforcement.
Campground Map
138 South Main PO Box 129, Loa, UT 84747, USA
Driving directionsFrom Highway 24 northwest of Loa, Utah, take Highway 25 northeast approximately 15 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessed via paved roads and is situated along the Fishlake Scenic Byway. Caution is advised for travelers coming from lower elevations to this high-altitude facility as inclement weather may occur.Nearby places
Loa (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, gas, and other essentials are available at resorts within the Fish Lake Basin, which are operational from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Camper Reviews
4.3
27 reviews
Frying Pan is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Frying Pan Campground is highly appreciated for its cleanliness, scenic views, and peaceful atmosphere. It is described as 'beautiful quiet small campground' and a 'hidden gem.'
Review Summaries
Based on 27 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained facilities, scenic views, peaceful environment, spacious group site, and friendly hosts.
Based on 27 reviewsCommon Concerns
Limited shade at individual sites, presence of cow pies affecting tent placement, and lack of proximity to the lake.
Based on 27 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray to manage mosquitoes. Be prepared for early morning sounds from cows and birds. For tent campers, choosing sites with flat spots is advisable. Carry a shovel for managing cow pies at...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight cool weather at high elevation and a well-maintained environment. Late summer sees increased mosquito activity. The campground operates from May 15 to September 14.
Based on 27 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms are pit toilets, but they are super clean and don't smell.' (Rachelle Gunderson, 2018)
2. 'Great place to camp! Flushing toilets, very clean!' (James Sorensen, 2018)
3. 'The group site...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 003: Spacious but sparse on shade; suitable for large tents.
Site 004: Good shade from Aspens; stays cool due to elevation.
Site 007: Nice clean site but requires driving to reach the...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The group site was noted for its handicap accessibility, with ample space for tents and parking.
Based on 27 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressing pets or pet policies were found in the source materials.
Based on 27 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025