Manti Community

Star4.27
27 reviews
540 NORTH MAIN STREET, Ephraim, UT 84627, USA
Manti Community
$10.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$40.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Peak season rates: $10.00 for Standard Nonelectric sites and $40.00 for Group Standard Nonelectric. Non-peak season rates are the same. Additional fees include $3 for extra vehicles and $15 for group site first-come-first-serve if not reserved.
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435-283-4151

About this campground

Nestled at 7,400 feet in Utah's high country, Manti Community Campground offers an authentic mountain escape near the pristine waters of Yearns Reservoir. Adventure seekers will discover a paradise of outdoor pursuits, from casting lines into crystal-clear waters to paddling peacefully across the reservoir's glassy surface. The campground serves as your basecamp for exploring miles of hiking and ATV trails that wind through stunning alpine terrain. Whether you're seeking a cozy individual site or planning a group gathering, this mountain retreat welcomes you via scenic dirt roads that lead deep into nature's embrace.
The campground offers a mix of site types, including group and single-family sites. It accommodates both tent and RV camping but is described as more suitable for smaller RVs due to limited maneuverability.
Historical SignificanceThis mountain sanctuary serves as the gateway to the renowned Arapeen OHV Trail System, where generations of outdoor enthusiasts have carved memories into the landscape. The jewel-like Yearns Reservoir beckons with its timeless allure, while the mystical cascade of Milky Falls whispers stories of the ancient mountains. Though the land keeps its deeper histories close, today it stands as a beloved recreational haven where modern adventurers create their own legends.
Weather and SeasonsAt this lofty elevation, mountain weather creates its own dramatic theater. Days bask in brilliant sunshine and crisp, dry air that fills your lungs with pure mountain freshness. As twilight paints the peaks, temperatures plummet dramatically, reminding visitors they're truly in the high country. Early and late season adventurers might wake to a magical dusting of snow transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland, while summer brings perfect conditions for stargazing under crystalline skies.
ElevationPerched at 7,400 feet where the air grows thin and the views stretch endless, this high-altitude haven offers a true mountain experience. The elevation brings a refreshing escape from valley heat, though wise campers pack warm layers for the surprisingly chilly nights that remind you just how close you are to the sky.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of towering spruce and fir mingles with gnarled pinyon, juniper, and shimmering aspen groves that dance in mountain breezes. This diverse forest ecosystem bursts with life—deer browse in twilight meadows while wildflowers paint the hillsides in summer's vibrant palette. From your hillside perch above Yearns Reservoir, gentle trails beckon you down to the water's edge, where reflections of surrounding peaks create perfect symmetry on calm mornings.
Geological RegionRising 7,400 feet into Utah's dramatic sky, this campground occupies a unique ecological crossroads where diverse forest communities converge. The surrounding landscape tells an ancient geological story through its varied terrain—from the weathered junipers clinging to rocky outcrops to the lush spruce and aspen groves thriving in protected hollows near Yearns Reservoir. This elevation creates a rare montane environment where multiple forest types flourish together in remarkable harmony.

Campsite details

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe group site accommodates up to 30 people and 6 vehicles. Single-family sites are also available and described as spacious with enough room for trailers.
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer a mix of privacy levels. Some are shaded and secluded, while others are more exposed. "Most sites had good shade and were plenty big/wide for trailers with extra space," noted one reviewer.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to the reservoir for better views and access to trails. Users also hinted potential difficulties for oversized vehicles.
Best CampsitesGroup site is highly rated with space for 30 guests and convenient access to the reservoir.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in times not specified directly.
Check-out
Check-out times not specified directly.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group site allows up to 30 guests. Individual sites likely accommodate fewer guests.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 30 people and 6 vehicles. Several tables and benches are provided around a single fire pit. However, the tent spots are reported to be slightly sloped, limiting setup options.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutIncludes 8 sites with gravel pathways and spurs. Group site includes multiple tables, benches, and a fire pit.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 22, 2025, to September 25, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityGroup site is available for $15 on a first-come, first-served basis when not reserved.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival with a $10 fee. Late cancellations for individual campsites incur the first night's recreation use fee in addition to the cancellation fee. Group site late cancellations incur same penalties if canceled less than 14 days before check-in.

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

The campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, canoeing, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Yearns Reservoir is a focal point, popular for its trout fishing and scenic beauty. Trails around the reservoir provide easy access to fishing spots and opportunities for exploration.
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity, with a trail circling Yearns Reservoir. The trail features fishing access points, a wooden bridge, stream crossings, and shaded areas.
Fishing
Fishing is a key attraction, with rainbow and cutthroat trout in Yearns Reservoir. "The lake...was filled with fish, even our children caught each day," one reviewer remarked.
Biking
Mountain biking is a favorite activity in the area, particularly on the trails that connect the campground to the Arapeen OHV Trail System.
Boating
Canoeing is commonly enjoyed on Yearns Reservoir. One user described it as a "small but scenic man-made reservoir" ideal for such activities.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with sightings of deer and other animals common. Summer wildflowers also enhance the experience.
Winter Activities
Winter camping can be challenging due to mixed rain and snow conditions, as noted by one reviewer: "It was a mix of rain and snow we end our trip early because of the weather."
Water Sports
Canoeing is the primary water sport at Yearns Reservoir, with no other specific activities mentioned.

Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires may be restricted; visitors are urged to ensure fires are put out completely.
  • Quiet hours not explicitly mentioned.

Hazards

General hazardsTicks are mentioned in user reviews as prevalent in the area, and dead trees pose some risks with one falling during a user's stay.
Active alertsNo active alerts specified.

Weather forecast

72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected

Humidity: 35%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 14.5 mph

Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected

Overcast
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Temperature Trends

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Precipitation Trends

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Weather Summaries

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Emergency Services

Emergency services not specified; likely available in Ephraim or Manti, Utah.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 22, 2025 - September 6, 2025
Trash and recyclingNo specific information about trash and recycling facilities was provided. Campers are advised to pack out their trash due to the lack of water and other cleaning facilities.
Proximity to water featuresWithin walking distance to Yearns Reservoir with designated fishing points and a trail encircling the water.
Common complaintsRepeated complaints about lack of water availability and poor toilet paper stocking. Flies are abundant near bathrooms. Some sites have uneven terrain.
HostMaintenance personnel are noted to visit daily, but no specific campground hosts are mentioned.

Campground Map

540 NORTH MAIN STREET, Ephraim, UT 84627, USA
Driving directionsLocated 7 miles east of Manti, Utah, on Forest Development Road #045. Accessible by dirt road, no high clearance needed.
Accessible by dirt road, no high clearance needed. Gravel roads and parking spurs within the campground.
Nearby places
Manti - 7 miles
Nearby supplies
Visitors needing water must travel to Ephraim, as it has been noted that Manti businesses may not allow refilling of water containers. Maverick in Ephraim was specifically mentioned in user reviews as being helpful.

Camper Reviews

4.3
27 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Manti Community is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Visitors to Manti Community Campground generally appreciate its scenic beauty, tranquility, and range of outdoor activities. However, consistent issues include the lack of water facilities and occasional maintenance challenges.
Review Summaries
Based on 27 reviews

What Campers Love

Many users praise the campground’s proximity to Yearns Reservoir, its well-maintained vault toilets, and the abundance of recreational activities: "Nice little campground. Literally a stone’s throw...
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Based on 27 reviews

Common Concerns

The absence of potable water is a recurring concern: "There is NO good reason for Manti Community Campground to be a 'dry' campground." Additionally, some users noted issues with maintenance, such as...
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Based on 27 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to bring plenty of water and their own toilet paper. "Bring your own water in but with 15 people and we ran out," one user advised. Another tip: be prepared for ticks in the area.
Based on 27 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight the abundance of flies and the lack of water. Winter reviews suggest the area can be snowy and cold, potentially limiting accessibility.
Based on 27 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Amazing camp ground. Great spot to get away." "Bathrooms were kept very clean." "The lake and creek smelled of sewage." "Ticks are in the area! Be aware, especially if you bring dogs."
Based on 27 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 007 in the MANT loop is highly regarded for its group camping amenities but noted for sloped tent spots. Site 006 received criticism for outdated tables.
Based on 27 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific accessibility reviews were found.
Based on 27 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but no user reviews specifically discuss pet-related facilities or experiences.
Based on 27 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

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