Gates Lake Cua Dispersed
02 reviews115 East 900 North, Richfield, UT 84701
Gates Lake Cua Dispersed
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
This is a free camping area with no fees for dispersed camping.
About this campground
High in the Fishlake National Forest, where the air grows thin at 9,800 feet, Gates Lake Recreation Area beckons adventurous souls seeking solitude and natural beauty. This dispersed camping haven sits alongside the pristine Gates Lake reservoir, where morning mist dances across the water's surface and aspens whisper secrets to towering conifers. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, exploring miles of 50-inch ATV trails that wind through the forest, or simply breathing in the pure mountain air while hiking scenic paths, this high-altitude retreat offers an authentic wilderness experience. Basic amenities include a vault restroom and an information kiosk to help orient you to this spectacular landscape.
Gates Lake Recreation Area is primarily a dispersed camping site. There are no developed facilities for RVs, groups, or glamping.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives late but gloriously at Gates Lake, transforming the landscape into a temperate paradise perfect for outdoor adventures. From June through October, visitors enjoy crisp mornings that warm to comfortable afternoons, ideal for fishing and trail exploration. As autumn approaches, the aspens burst into golden flames against the evergreen backdrop, creating a photographer's dream. Winter transforms this high-altitude sanctuary into a snow-locked wonderland, with extreme cold and heavy snowfall making the area inaccessible to all but the most intrepid winter explorers.
ElevationPerched at nearly 9,800 feet above sea level, Gates Lake Recreation Area offers the rare opportunity to camp among the clouds. At this breathtaking elevation, the atmosphere becomes noticeably thinner, creating crystalline skies by day and spectacular stargazing by night. Visitors should prepare for the altitude's effects – cooler temperatures year-round, more intense sun exposure, and the need to acclimate gradually. The reward? Unparalleled mountain vistas and the exhilarating feeling of being on top of the world.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has painted a masterpiece at Gates Lake, where groves of quaking aspen create a living cathedral alongside stately conifers. The centerpiece is the serene Gates Lake reservoir, its waters reflecting the surrounding forest like a mirror. In this high-altitude sanctuary, the interplay of light and shadow through the canopy creates an ever-changing tapestry of green and gold. Wildlife thrives in this pristine environment, offering patient observers glimpses of mountain creatures in their natural habitat.
Geological RegionNestled within the ancient landscape of Fishlake National Forest, Gates Lake Recreation Area showcases the geological wonders of Utah's high country. At nearly 9,800 feet, this remarkable terrain tells a story millions of years in the making, where volcanic activity and glacial forces sculpted the land into today's dramatic topography. The mixed forest of aspens and conifers thrives in the unique microclimate created by the reservoir, while the surrounding peaks and valleys reveal layers of geological history to those who know how to read the rocks.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific details about accessibility options for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeNo specific information on campsite sizes is provided.
Sites PrivacyNo information available on campsite privacy or layout.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
16 days, 15 nights. After this, campers must relocate at least 5 road miles away.
Groups
No designated group sites or information about group camping.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for camping from June to October.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations required; the area is first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is on a first-come, first-served basis as this is a dispersed camping area.
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
This recreation area offers a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, ATV trail riding, hiking, wildlife viewing, and dispersed camping. The Gates Lake Reservoir is a focal point for fishing enthusiasts.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, but no specific details about their lengths or difficulty levels.Fishing
Gates Lake Reservoir is popular for fishing opportunities. However, the types of fish available are not specified.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are noted but without specifics about common species.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned, but the area is open from June to October, suggesting limited winter access.Water Sports
No information provided about non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campers must follow local fire restrictions and fully extinguish campfires before leaving.
Hazards
General hazardsThe road to the site (FR040) can be rough and is not recommended for trailers. High elevation conditions may include sudden weather changes.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Light drizzle
Precipitation: 0.4%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 63%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 12.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Rain - (0.40% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Light drizzle
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
The Supervisors Office & Richfield Ranger District, located at 115 East 900 North, Richfield, UT 84701, provides contact support for the area (Phone: 435-896-9233, Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 4:30 PM).
Good to know
Peak season datesLikely within June to October, given the open dates and weather suitability.
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to pack out all trash. Dedicated trash and recycling facilities are not available.
Proximity to water featuresNext to the Gates Lake reservoir, which is a popular fishing spot.
Common complaintsNo major complaints listed in user reviews, although one user mentioned the area being crowded during the 4th of July holiday.
Campground Map
115 East 900 North, Richfield, UT 84701
Driving directionsGates Lake is located about 29 miles southeast of Salina, Utah. In Salina at the junction of Main Street and State Street, head south on State Street for approximately 2 miles until you reach I-70. Turn left (east) onto I-70 east-bound from Salina for approximately 6.5 miles. Exit I-70 at Gooseberry Road (Exit 63) and then turn right (south) on the paved Gooseberry Road #640 for 18.4 miles. Turn right on FR040 for 2.4 miles.
The road to Gates Lake (FR040) can be rough and is not recommended for trailers. The final 2.4 miles are likely unpaved and may require capable vehicles.Nearby places
Salina, Utah (29 miles, approximately 45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can likely be obtained from Salina, the closest town, approximately 29 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Gates Lake Cua Dispersed has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the scenic beauty of the area and its suitability for dry camping. The Fourth of July tends to be crowded with visitors.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciate the natural beauty and the opportunity for dispersed camping. One reviewer described it as a "Beautiful area great place to dry camp."
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent rough road conditions are noted, especially the access road (FR040), which is not recommended for trailers.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring sufficient water and firewood as these amenities are not available. Be prepared for rough road conditions and crowded conditions during holidays like the Fourth of July.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summers bring more visitors, particularly during the Fourth of July and other holidays. The stay limit of 16 days is more relevant during the peak summer season.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful area great place to dry camp." - James Higgins. "It's the 4th of July and many campers." - Traveling Man.
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No reviews mention specific site numbers or areas within the campground.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically discuss accessibility features or challenges.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No user reviews specifically address pet policies, though dogs must be leashed, and their waste disposed of properly.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025