Lower Bowns
4.0425 reviews138 South Main St., Loa, UT, 84747, USA
Lower Bowns
$20.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates are $20 per night for standard non-electric sites and $75 per night for group standard non-electric sites. These fees apply during May 15–September 29. No booking is available outside this season.
About this campground
Perched at 7,000 feet on Boulder Mountain's eastern slopes, Lower Bowns Campground offers an authentic escape into Utah's high country wilderness. This intimate campground features just three sites—one spacious group area and two secluded single spots—perfect for those seeking solitude beside the shimmering waters of Lower Bowns Reservoir. Adventure awaits with exceptional boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities, though reaching this hidden gem requires navigating remote mountain roads that add to its off-the-beaten-path appeal. Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking scenery and peaceful remoteness that make this destination worth the journey.
Lower Bowns Campground offers a mix of camping accommodations including group campsites and individual sites suitable for RVs and tents. Dispersed camping options are also available nearby.
Historical SignificanceThis corner of Utah tells ancient stories written in stone, sitting in the shadow of Capitol Reef National Park's magnificent geological wonders. The surrounding landscape has witnessed millions of years of Earth's history, from ancient seas to wind-carved canyons, creating a living museum of geological time that captivates visitors with its layers of colorful rock formations and fossil-rich outcroppings.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the crisp mountain air and dramatic weather patterns that define Boulder Mountain's high elevation environment. Late spring through early summer emerges as the sweet spot for camping, when comfortable daytime temperatures give way to cool, star-filled nights. While the area typically enjoys dry conditions with moderate breezes perfect for outdoor activities, nature occasionally reminds visitors of its wild side—from surprisingly aggressive ant populations during warmer months to fluctuating reservoir levels during dry spells. Smart campers come prepared for mountain weather's quick changes and embrace the adventure.
ElevationAt 7,000 feet above sea level, Lower Bowns transforms the typical Utah camping experience into a high-altitude adventure. This elevation blessing brings refreshingly cool temperatures even during summer's peak, crystal-clear mountain air that makes stars seem close enough to touch, and panoramic vistas that stretch across the Colorado Plateau. The thin air and cooler climate create perfect conditions for escaping the desert heat below while enjoying spectacular sunrise and sunset displays painted across Boulder Mountain's dramatic skyline.
Natural Features and SceneryLower Bowns Reservoir sparkles like a hidden jewel against Boulder Mountain's rugged backdrop, surrounded by the distinctive high desert landscape of scattered pinyon pines and aromatic juniper trees. While the sparse forest canopy means campers should bring their own shade solutions, it also ensures unobstructed views of the surrounding wilderness. On clear days, the majestic Henry Mountains rise to the east while the colorful cliffs of Capitol Reef National Park paint the western horizon, creating a 360-degree natural amphitheater of Utah's most stunning geological features.
Geological RegionNestled on Boulder Mountain's eastern flank overlooking Lower Bowns Reservoir, this campground sits at the intersection of three of Utah's most spectacular geological provinces. To the west, Capitol Reef's famous Waterpocket Fold showcases 100-mile wrinkle in the Earth's crust, while the volcanic Henry Mountains punctuate the eastern skyline. The campground itself rests among ancient pinyon and juniper woodlands that have adapted to this unique high-desert ecosystem, where sparse vegetation allows the raw beauty of exposed rock formations and sweeping vistas to take center stage in nature's grand theater.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible sites are available, including one group site accommodating up to 50 people and two single sites for up to 10 people each.
Sites SizeGroup site accommodates up to 50 people; single sites accommodate up to 10 people each.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited, particularly at the group campsite, as its firepit is located close to dispersed camping areas.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid tent camping in areas prone to ants; consider sites closer to the lake for better scenery. "Inspecting the area before reserving a site here if you’re tent camping."
Best CampsitesCampsite 003 often highlighted positively for cleanliness and proximity to the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM local time.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM local time.
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to a maximum of 16 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two single sites can each accommodate up to 10 people.
Groups
One group site is available, capable of accommodating up to 50 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne group site and two single sites with gravel roads. Group site includes long tables, a large firepit, and cooking stands on a concrete pad.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15–September 29 annually. Out of season bookings not available.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, along with potential late penalties. Late cancellations result in forfeiting the first night's recreation fee. Changes incur a $10 fee unless within the original reservation dates.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lower Bowns Campground offers a range of recreational activities both within the campground and in nearby areas. These include boating, canoeing, fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, biking, hunting, and exploring ATV trails. The Lower Bowns Reservoir provides opportunities for water-based activities, although fishing from the shore may be less rewarding due to the presence of small fish and low water levels during certain seasons.
Hiking
Popular hiking trails are available nearby, including those at Capitol Reef National Park, located 45 minutes away from the campground.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at Lower Bowns Reservoir, with common catches being rainbow, brook, and cutthroat trout. However, users report challenges fishing from the shore due to low water levels and vegetation.Biking
Biking opportunities include trails within the campground and surrounding areas, suitable for outdoor enthusiasts.Boating
Boating and canoeing are popular activities at Lower Bowns Reservoir. Paddleboarding and kayaking are also mentioned by user reviews.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a noted activity, with deer and other animals commonly spotted.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular non-motorized water sports available at Lower Bowns Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated fire pits; campers encouraged to obtain local firewood to prevent tree-killing pest spread.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazards"Aggressive ants at this site were intolerable...suggest inspecting the area before reserving." Dirt road challenges and seasonal lake vegetation affecting fishing are noted.
Active alertsNone mentioned.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
null
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15–September 29 annually.
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are available. Campers must pack out all trash, adhering to 'pack it in-pack it out' principles.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is located on the shore of Lower Bowns Reservoir, which offers boating, fishing, and paddleboarding opportunities. However, some reviews noted low water levels at certain times.
Common complaintsComplaints include rough roads, lack of water on-site, aggressive ants, and low lake levels impacting fishing. "The aggressive ants at this site were intolerable." "Lake was very low and not particularly scenic."
Host"Very good hosts." "Earnest the camp host was very friendly and a joy to visit with."
Campground Map
138 South Main St., Loa, UT, 84747, USA
Driving directionsFrom Torrey, Utah, take Highway 24 approximately one mile east to the junction with Highway 12. Turn right and travel 16 miles to Forest Road 186. Take FR 186 5 miles to the campground.
The road to the campground is gravel and reported to be rough, with rain damage in some areas. Multiple user reviews mention challenges with driving trailers and small cars due to the rough dirt roads. "The road going into the campsite was pretty rough. Rough enough that I wouldn't pull my trailer down it again."Nearby places
Torrey, Utah (approximately 22 miles, 35-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
null
Camper Reviews
4.0
25 reviews
Lower Bowns is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Lower Bowns Campground vary widely, with positive comments highlighting its quiet, scenic location and clean facilities. Negative reviews focus on challenges such as aggressive ants, rough access roads, and limited shade at campsites.
Review Summaries
Based on 25 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the campground's cleanliness, scenic views, and proximity to recreational activities such as hiking and boating. The quiet atmosphere and opportunities for stargazing are also...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include aggressive ants, lack of water hookups, rough access roads, and limited shade. Reviewers note challenges with fishing due to low reservoir levels and dense vegetation along the...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring water and toilet paper due to limited facilities. Inspect campsites for ants before setting up tents. Avoid the campground during periods of low reservoir levels if fishing is a priority.
Based on 25 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews often mention good weather but note challenges such as rough roads and aggressive ants. Fall reviews highlight quietness and cooler temperatures but describe low reservoir levels and...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful scenery! It was hard to fish without a boat right now due to the lake being so low and vegetation around the edges.' - Alec Slifer
2. 'A pretty and woodsy campground which was extremely...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 002: Multiple reviewers report issues with aggressive ants and challenges with fishing due to low reservoir levels.
Site GP: Reviews indicate limited shade and privacy at the group site, but...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible features include vault toilets and group sites accommodating larger gatherings. Users with mobility challenges may face difficulties due to rough gravel roads and lack of paved paths.
Based on 25 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but some users report challenges with ants when walking pets, particularly near trailers.
Based on 25 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025