Mallard Bay Overflow Rec Site
05 reviewsMallard Bay Overflow Campground, Fishlake National Forest, UT
Mallard Bay Overflow Rec Site
$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
Fees are subject to change seasonally, and campers are advised to email High Country Recreation at highcountryrec@gmail.com for current rates.
About this campground
When the main campgrounds around Fish Lake reach capacity, Mallard Bay Overflow emerges as a hidden gem for adventurous campers. Nestled along the shores of Fish Lake and perfectly positioned on the famous Fishlake Scenic Byway, this overflow area offers the same stunning access to Utah's alpine wonderland without the crowds. It's the perfect basecamp for those who arrive to find the popular spots taken, yet refuse to compromise on their mountain lake experience.
Mallard Bay Overflow Rec Site primarily caters to RV and tent campers as an overflow facility, ensuring accommodation when primary campgrounds are full.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, Mallard Bay transforms with the seasons. Spring arrives tentatively, with crisp nights that demand warm sleeping bags and mornings that sparkle with frost. As summer settles in, the days warm to perfect hiking temperatures while nights remain refreshingly cool – ideal for campfire gatherings. By late season, autumn paints the aspens gold, and the first whispers of winter may dust the peaks with snow, reminding visitors that this high-altitude paradise follows its own seasonal calendar.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 9,000 feet above sea level, Mallard Bay offers the kind of thin, crystal-clear mountain air that makes every breath feel like a gift. At this elevation, the stars seem close enough to touch, the air stays refreshingly cool even on summer days, and visitors from lower altitudes might find themselves taking it easy for the first day or two as their bodies adjust to the thinner atmosphere. It's a small price to pay for camping among the clouds.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to mirror-like reflections on Fish Lake, Utah's largest natural mountain lake stretching across 2,500 pristine acres. The surrounding landscape reads like a love letter to the American West – dense stands of spruce and pine give way to shimmering aspen groves that dance in the mountain breeze. For those seeking elevated perspectives, the nearby Pelican Canyon Trail rewards hikers with dramatic panoramic vistas that stretch across the forested valleys and crystalline waters below, creating memories that last long after the camping trip ends.
Geological RegionDeep in the heart of central Utah's Fishlake National Forest, at a breathtaking 9,000 feet, Mallard Bay occupies a special place in the state's geological tapestry. This high-altitude haven showcases the powerful forces that carved Utah's landscape – ancient glaciers that sculpted the basin now holding Fish Lake, the state's largest natural mountain lake. The surrounding forest blankets the mountainsides in a verdant embrace, creating a pristine wilderness playground where geological wonders meet outdoor adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features for people with disabilities are not detailed in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe campground is described as an overflow site, suggesting variable site sizes to accommodate different needs, but specific dimensions are not provided.
Sites PrivacyReviews indicate that the area may feel cramped during peak usage, which could affect privacy.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites close to the lake are recommended for wildlife viewing and easy lake access.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Camping stay limit is 16 days, 15 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly mentioned.
Groups
Reviews suggest that the site may accommodate groups, but no specific information is provided about group site facilities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpen only when all other campgrounds in Fish Lake Basin are full, typically during May to October.
Reservation PlatformsContact High Country Recreation via highcountryrec@gmail.com for fee inquiries.
Walk-in AvailabilityOperates exclusively as a walk-up overflow site when all other campgrounds are full.
Cancellation PolicyNot explicitly stated. Campground operates as an overflow site and may not be reserved in advance.
Amenities available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Mallard Bay Overflow Rec Site offers a variety of recreational activities, primarily centered around Fish Lake. Visitors can engage in fishing, boating, hiking, swimming, and even scuba diving. The nearby trails and the lake's natural beauty serve as key attractions.
Hiking
The five-mile Pelican Canyon Trail starts at the nearby Bowery Creek Campground, ascending 900 feet and offering scenic views. The Lakeshore National Recreation Trail runs along the eastern side of the lake.Fishing
Fish Lake is renowned for its 20–40-pound Mackinaw lake trout. Anglers also catch rainbow trout and splake.Swimming
Swimming is a popular activity at Fish Lake, though specific swimming facilities are not mentioned.Boating
Boating and canoeing are highlighted activities on Fish Lake, with its expansive 2,500-acre surface.Winter Activities
No winter activities are described for this campground.Water Sports
In addition to boating and canoeing, Fish Lake supports other water sports like scuba diving, though specific details are limited.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Follow local fire restrictions; avoid cutting or breaking branches and use existing fire pits.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes noted as fierce by reviewers. Wildlife presence necessitates food storage precautions.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 13.2 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 at 138 South Main Street Loa, UT 84747 (~30 miles). Contact: (435) 836-2800.
Good to know
Peak season datesLikely May to October alignment but specific peak season periods are undefined.
Trash and recyclingCampers are encouraged to pack out all trash and follow 'leave no trace' principles. There is no mention of on-site trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresFish Lake is adjacent to the campground, offering fishing and water activities.
Common complaintsSome reviewers mention cramped spaces and mosquito issues.
HostCamp host highly praised in reviews for offering assistance with site selection.
Campground Map
Mallard Bay Overflow Campground, Fishlake National Forest, UT
Driving directionsThe Mallard Bay Overflow Campground is located 40 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 7 miles. Turn right on Doctor Creek Campground Road and travel 0.3 miles.
Accessible via paved roads until UT-25 N and requires navigating some forest service routes such as Doctor Creek Campground Road. Seasonally operational only when overflow needs arise.Nearby places
Richfield, Utah (40 miles, ~1 hour drive)
Nearby supplies
Loa, Utah (~30 miles) includes grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel options.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Mallard Bay Overflow Rec Site has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews consistently praise the site's proximity to Fish Lake and its natural beauty, though some note that it can feel cramped during peak usage. The camp host receives positive mentions for helpfulness.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Proximity to the lake, scenic views, and opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and wildlife watching are frequently mentioned. Camp hosts are noted for their helpfulness.
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
The site can become cramped during high occupancy, and mosquitoes are described as a nuisance. There is also mention of limited facilities.
Based on 5 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bringing mosquito repellent is highly recommended. Reviewers suggest this as a good spot for group camping and enjoying outdoor activities near the lake.
Based on 5 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Positive reviews are more frequent in the summer months, highlighting the lake's accessibility and activities. During peak times, the overflow area is described as cramped.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The camp host was so awesome! Our trailer wouldn't fit in our reserved spot. So he helped us find a different spot in the overflow area." - Jade Boger. "Beautiful location! Lake was amazing and the...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers or areas are highlighted in the reviews.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not discussed in user reviews.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies and experiences are not mentioned in the provided materials.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025