Joes Valley Pavilion Group Site A
04 reviewsUS FOREST SERVICE, 115 WEST CANYON ROAD, PO BOX 310
Joes Valley Pavilion Group Site A
$20.00 - $50.00 / 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$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season group standard non-electric site fees are $50 per night. During first-come, first-served season, the fee is $20 per night. This does not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Perched high above the shimmering waters of Joes Valley Reservoir, this mountain retreat beckons groups seeking adventure in Utah's backcountry. The expansive pavilion anchors your basecamp, offering shelter for gatherings while the surrounding landscape unfolds with endless possibilities—cast a line into trophy trout waters, launch your boat for a day of exploration, or set off on trails that wind through sagebrush meadows and into hidden canyons. With its generous gravel parking area and well-maintained vault toilets, Joes Valley Pavilion Group Site A provides the perfect balance of mountain solitude and essential amenities for your next group adventure.
Joes Valley Pavilion Group Site A caters to group camping with accommodations for up to 100 people. The site is equipped for trailers and RVs but has limited tent placement options, as noted in user reviews.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this high country into an outdoor playground, with warm, sun-drenched days perfect for lakeside adventures and cool evenings made for campfire stories. As autumn arrives, crisp mountain air carries the scent of sagebrush across the plateau. Winter blankets the landscape in snow, creating a serene wonderland for those prepared for cold-weather camping. Throughout the year, the dry climate and minimal precipitation mean more blue-sky days for your outdoor pursuits.
ElevationAt 7,000 feet above sea level, this mountain perch offers a refreshing escape from the desert heat below. The thin, crisp air carries the scent of pine and sage, while cooler temperatures provide natural air conditioning even during summer's peak. From this lofty vantage point, sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys remind you why Utah's high country is legendary among outdoor enthusiasts.
Natural Features and SceneryThe landscape here tells the story of Utah's high desert meets mountain majesty. Silver-green sagebrush carpets the immediate camping area in an aromatic tapestry, while scattered groves of quaking aspens, stately pines, and rustling cottonwoods dot the surrounding hillsides. Though the pavilion area itself offers little natural shade—keeping the space open and airy—the sparse vegetation creates dramatic sight lines to the reservoir below and the rugged peaks beyond.
Geological RegionWelcome to the Wasatch Plateau, where Central Utah's geography reaches skyward in a dramatic display of high mountain valleys and windswept ridges. This ancient landscape, carved by time and weather, showcases the region's signature blend of sagebrush steppes punctuated by pockets of mountain forest. Cottonwoods trace the water courses, aspens shimmer on the hillsides, and lone pines stand sentinel on the ridgelines, creating a mosaic of textures and colors that shifts with every season.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features for campers with disabilities are mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe gravel parking area offers ample space for vehicles, RVs, trailers, and tents. However, user reviews have indicated limited options for tent placement.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as having no trees or natural shade, which implies low privacy at campsites.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviews suggest the site is best suited for large groups using trailers rather than tents due to the gravel terrain.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 100 people
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 100 people, with a large pavilion offering shaded picnic tables and ample parking space for vehicles, RVs, and trailers.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe site includes a large pavilion with picnic tables, gravel parking areas for vehicles and trailers, and limited tent space.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 8 to October 7 during the reservable period, and October 8 to November 4 for first-come, first-served access.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or through the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is offered during the first-come, first-served period (October 8 to November 4) with reduced fees.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made in advance. Standard cancellations carry a $10 fee, and late cancellations (within 14 days of arrival) forfeit the first night's fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and also forfeit the first night’s 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
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors at Joes Valley Pavilion Group Site A can engage in diverse activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, mountain biking, and bouldering. The nearby reservoir supports fishing for cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, tiger muskie, and trophy splake, along with opportunities for water skiing and canoeing. The surrounding area also features trails for horseback riding and off-road vehicle use, although these are prohibited within the campground itself. Renowned bouldering opportunities are located in nearby Straight and Cottonwood Canyons.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible from the campground, and nearby attractions include trails leading to renowned bouldering sites in Straight and Cottonwood Canyons.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing at Joes Valley Reservoir includes species such as cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, tiger muskie, and trophy splake. User feedback indicates good fishing conditions at the reservoir, though one review noted that low water levels could affect activities.Biking
Mountain biking is popular in the area surrounding Joes Valley Pavilion Group Site A, with trails accessible nearby.Boating
Boating activities, including water skiing and canoeing, are supported at Joes Valley Reservoir. A boat ramp is accessible on the eastern shoreline.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities such as skiing or snowshoeing are mentioned.Water Sports
Boating and water skiing are popular water sports at Joes Valley Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings are provided. Visitors are encouraged to use locally-sourced firewood to prevent tree pests.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include barren terrain with little shade, seasonal low water levels in the reservoir, and wildlife typical of the region.
Active alertsNone currently noted.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 11.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Closest emergency services can be found in Ferron (~30 miles) including hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 8 - October 7
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are not provided; visitors must carry out all garbage.
Proximity to water featuresSituated near Joes Valley Reservoir, offering fishing and boating opportunities.
Common complaintsComplaints include the lack of shaded areas within the campground and limited tent setup locations.
HostThe campground host, Wayne, has been described as helpful and accommodating, especially in resolving reservation issues.
Campground Map
US FOREST SERVICE, 115 WEST CANYON ROAD, PO BOX 310
Driving directionsFrom Price, Utah, travel 45 miles south on State Road 10, to the junction of State Roads 10 and 29. Turn west on State Road 29 and continue through Orangeville, approximately 12 miles. Turn north at the stop sign and follow State Road 29 approximately 18 miles to campground.
State Road 29 provides access to the campground. Road conditions are suitable for vehicles, RVs, and trailers. The gravel parking area offers ample space.Nearby places
Price (~45 miles, ~1 hour drive), Orangeville (~12 miles, ~20-minute drive), Ferron (~30 miles, ~45-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies for groceries, camping gear, and fuel can be found in Price (~45 miles) or Ferron (~30 miles).
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Joes Valley Pavilion Group Site A has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User feedback highlights the cleanliness of vault toilets, spacious pavilion with shade, and proximity to Joes Valley Reservoir as major positives. However, some users expressed concerns about limited tent placement options and the lack of natural shade.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews frequently mention the cleanliness of the vault toilets ('Bathrooms are super close and very clean') and the large pavilion's capacity ('The pavilion has 10 tables in it and 3...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues raised by users include limited tent placement options ('Not many nice places to put a tent') and barren surroundings ('No trees or anything, it was pretty barren').
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and garbage bags, as trash facilities are not provided. Consider using a trailer or RV due to limited tent placement options. Some reviews suggest interacting with the camp host...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
User experiences vary seasonally, with positive sentiments regarding summer activities like boating and fishing but concerns about low water levels affecting reservoir usability during dry periods...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The bathrooms are close by, kept very clean, and smell a lot better than most.' 2. 'The pavilion has 10 tables in it and 3 outside by the fire pit.' 3. 'Not many nice places to put a tent.'
Based on 4 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site PAVI in Loop JOES VALLEY PAVILION GROUP SITE A received mixed feedback. Positive reviews mention its suitability for trailers or big groups, while negative feedback highlights the lack of...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address accessibility features or experiences for campers with disabilities.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, but no user reviews specifically discuss pet-friendly features or experiences.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025