Bowery Creek
P.O Box 129 138 south man Loa, UT 84747, USA
Bowery Creek
$25.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Nightly rates during peak season range from $25 for standard nonelectric sites to $75 for group sites, depending on capacity.
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$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$100.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
ProviderAbout this campground
Perched high in the Fishlake National Forest, Bowery Creek Campground beckons adventurers to discover the pristine shores of Fish Lake, Utah's largest natural mountain lake. This alpine retreat seamlessly blends tranquil waterfront access with endless outdoor pursuits, from dawn fishing expeditions to sunset hikes through aspen groves. Whether you're planning a family reunion at one of the spacious group sites or seeking solitude at a single-family spot, Bowery Creek delivers an authentic high-country experience where the day's biggest decision might be choosing between casting a line or launching your boat into the crystal-clear waters.
Bowery Creek Campground features diverse camping options suitable for families, groups, and individual campers.
Weather and SeasonsAt 9,000 feet, Bowery Creek embraces its mountain character with refreshingly cool summer days and crisp, star-filled nights that call for cozy campfires and warm sleeping bags. Even in July and August, wise campers pack layers as afternoon winds sweep across the lake and temperatures can dip surprisingly low after sunset. This high-altitude climate creates perfect conditions for escaping valley heat, though visitors should come prepared for the occasional summer thunderstorm that rolls through with dramatic flair.
ElevationRising to 9,000 feet above sea level, Bowery Creek sits in that sweet spot where the air is refreshingly thin and the views stretch endlessly. This lofty perch rewards visitors with naturally air-conditioned summers and spectacular vistas, though flatlanders might find themselves catching their breath more often during the first day or two. The elevation creates an alpine environment where wildflowers bloom later, stars shine brighter, and every sunrise feels like a private show.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom its commanding position on a sage-dotted hillside, Bowery Creek offers front-row seats to one of Utah's most stunning natural theaters. Below, the sapphire expanse of 2,500-acre Fish Lake sparkles in the mountain light, while groves of quaking aspen and stately cottonwoods provide natural shade and a symphony of rustling leaves. The contrast between the silvery sagebrush slopes and the emerald forest creates a landscape that shifts with every change of light, making photographers reach for their cameras and everyone else simply pause to take it all in.
Geological RegionBowery Creek occupies a spectacular perch within the Fishlake National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a dramatic landscape of high valleys and volcanic plateaus. The campground's sagebrush-covered hillside tells a story of elevation and exposure, while below, the valley cradles Fish Lake—a 2,500-acre natural wonder formed by ancient lava flows that created Utah's largest mountain lake. Surrounded by dense forests of aspen and cottonwood that paint the hillsides gold each autumn, this unique geological setting offers visitors a front-row seat to millions of years of Earth's artistry.
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Campsite details
AccessibilitySpecific accessibility features are not detailed in the source materials; however, paved roads and parking spurs may enhance accessibility.
Sites SizeCampsites range from single-family sites to group sites accommodating up to 30 people. Some sites have space for multiple RVs, but issues with leveling have been reported.
Sites PrivacySites are situated among aspen and cottonwood trees, offering some shade and privacy. However, the proximity to the lake and lack of dense vegetation in some areas may reduce privacy.
Total Campsites31 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGroup sites 1, 26, and 27 received positive reviews for spaciousness and views. Tent campers should bring extra padding due to rocky terrain. Users recommend verifying campsite maps before arrival.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 16 days per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Group sites can accommodate 20-30 people
- individual limits are not specified.
Groups
There are six group sites: three accommodating up to 30 people each and three suitable for up to 20 people. A group day-use picnic site for up to 100 people is also available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes paved roads and spurs, and offers group and single-family sites. Some sites are pull-through.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 15 to September 14 during reservable peak season. Closed for reservations outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySpecific first-come, first-served availability is not mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before the arrival date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations for individual campsites will forfeit the first night's fee. Group site cancellations made less than 14 days before the arrival date forfeit the entire day-use fee.
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
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Bowery Creek Campground offers a wealth of recreational activities, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities include hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
The Pelican Canyon Trail begins in the campground and stretches 5 miles, climbing to the 11,633-foot Fish Lake Hightop. In addition, the Lakeshore National Recreation Trail offers stunning lake views after a 900-foot elevation gain.Fishing
Fish Lake, famous for its Mackinaw lake trout weighing between 20-40 pounds, also hosts rainbow trout and splake. It is a prime destination for anglers.Swimming
Fish Lake provides opportunities for swimming and scuba diving, though details about designated swimming areas are not available.Biking
The area supports biking activities, though no specific biking trails or terrain details are provided.Boating
Boating and canoeing are popular on Fish Lake. Shallow areas near the upper end are good for kayaking and paddleboarding, away from motorized fishing boats.Wildlife viewing
The campground's elevation and location among aspen and cottonwoods provide opportunities for bird-watching and spotting deer.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned, as the campground primarily operates during warmer seasons.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are popular, especially in shallow lake areas.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh elevation may cause altitude sickness. Extreme weather conditions and potholes near the entrance have been reported. Wildlife encounters are possible.
Weather forecast
39
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available in Loa, UT, approximately 9.5 miles away, including hospitals, police, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 to September 14
Trash and recyclingThe campground follows a 'pack it in-pack it out' policy, meaning campers must bring their own trash bags. No garbage services are available on-site, but a dumpster is located about 100 yards past the area.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to Fish Lake, with easy access for kayaking, fishing, and paddle-boarding.
Common complaintsNoise from generators and motorized vehicles was a concern among users. Some restrooms were reported as poorly maintained, and campsite maps were noted as inaccurate by reviewers.
HostCampground hosts were consistently described as friendly, helpful, and accommodating. Some hosts, like 'Dick,' were specifically praised for their outstanding service.
Campground Map
P.O Box 129 138 south man Loa, UT 84747, USA
Driving directionsFrom Highway 24 northwest of Loa, Utah, take Highway 25 northeast 9.5 miles to the campground.
Roads to the campground are paved and accessible. Seasonal conditions may affect travel as this is a high elevation facility. Use caution when traveling from lower elevations and be prepared for inclement weather.Nearby places
Loa (9.5 miles, approximately 15 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Three resorts in Fish Lake Basin offer camping and fishing supplies, RV parks with hookups, cabin and boat rentals, marinas, gas, restaurants, groceries, laundry facilities, and showers. These are open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Camper Reviews
4.4
38 reviews
Bowery Creek is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews emphasize the campground's scenic beauty, convenient location near Fish Lake, and overall cleanliness. However, some campers raised concerns about traffic noise, generator use, and uneven campsites.
Review Summaries
Based on 38 reviews
What Campers Love
Camp hosts are widely praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. Many campers appreciate the lake views, clean facilities, and proximity to recreational activities.
Based on 38 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues include uneven campsites, long distances to restrooms, and disruptive vehicle traffic. Some reviewers also mentioned noise from generators and cleanliness concerns in restrooms.
Based on 38 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring leveling blocks for RVs. Tent campers should bring sleeping pads due to rocky ground. Campers are advised to pack extra trash bags for 'pack it in-pack it out' policies.
Based on 38 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews often highlight beautiful weather and active recreational opportunities. Some complaints during peak season focus on crowded conditions and noise.
Based on 38 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The natural resources approximate to this campground are splendid. The Pelican Canyon Hiking Trail to Fishlake Flatop is spectacular." - Arthur D.; "Bowery is beautiful and has good amenities, but...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Loops and campsites vary in quality. For instance, site 36 received complaints about uneven terrain. Site 9 is described as offering good views but lacking adequate ground for tents.
Based on 38 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly reviewed, though paved roads and parking spurs are noted.
Based on 38 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed. One reviewer noted that pets were welcome, and no specific complaints or praises were recorded about pet-related facilities.
Based on 38 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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