Posey Lake Campground
4.5747 reviewsDixie National Forest, Posey Lake Campground, UT
Quick Facts
8,800 ftPrice
$16 - $65/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
21 campsites
Season
Open from Memorial D...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
8,800 ftPrice
$16 - $65/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
21 campsites
Season
Open from Memorial D...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsPosey Lake Campground
$16.00 - $65.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range between $16 for standard sites and $65 for group sites during peak season. Additional fees apply for late cancellations and changes.
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$65.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$81.00
Get Notified When Available
We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.
Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes
167,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider435-826-5499
What Campers Say
4.57
Top-Rated
Based on 47 reviews
66 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanhikinglakefriendly
Some mention
noise
"Overall, the reviews for Posey Lake Campground are positive, with visitors praising its peaceful location, clean facilities, and friendly camp host. Common complaints include road access difficulties and ATV noise."
Fees & Passes at Posey Lake Campground
$16 - $65/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: Maximum stay duration is 14 nights within a 30-day rolling period.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled any time before the date of scheduled arrival. A $10 cancellation fee a...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Dixie National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Posey Lake Campground
Summer days at Posey Lake unfold with warm, golden afternoons reaching the upper 80s, perfect for lakeside adventures, before cooling to crisp 50-degree evenings ideal for campfire gatherings. As autumn arrives, the aspens burst into flame-colored glory. Winter transforms this high-altitude retreat into a snow-draped wonderland, where temperatures plummet and silence blankets the forest, creating a completely different but equally magical camping experience for the well-prepared adventurer.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Drinking water is only available during this period.
- Current Alerts: As of recent reviews, water may not be available early in the season, and campers should prepare for pack-it-in-pack-it-out policies.
About Posey Lake Campground
Escape to Posey Lake Campground, where the Colorado Plateau reveals its hidden treasures at 8,800 feet. This remote mountain sanctuary beckons adventurers with crystalline waters perfect for fishing and kayaking, trails that wind through ancient forests, and night skies so pristine that the Milky Way stretches overhead like nature's own cathedral. Here, far from city lights, every sunset gives way to a cosmic light show that transforms camping into an otherworldly experience.
Posey Lake Campground features single-family sites, a group site for up to 35 people, and options for tent and RV camping. It provides a rustic, remote camping experience.
Historical SignificanceYour basecamp at Posey Lake places you at the crossroads of geological wonder and ancient history. Just a short drive away, the Escalante Petrified Forest State Park preserves rainbow-hued logs from prehistoric forests, while the vast Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument unfolds its layers of time in dramatic canyons and plateaus. These surrounding landmarks tell a story millions of years in the making, from dinosaur tracks to Native American artifacts, making every day trip an journey through deep time.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Posey Lake unfold with warm, golden afternoons reaching the upper 80s, perfect for lakeside adventures, before cooling to crisp 50-degree evenings ideal for campfire gatherings. As autumn arrives, the aspens burst into flame-colored glory. Winter transforms this high-altitude retreat into a snow-draped wonderland, where temperatures plummet and silence blankets the forest, creating a completely different but equally magical camping experience for the well-prepared adventurer.
ElevationPerched at 8,800 feet on the Colorado Plateau, Posey Lake Campground offers a refreshing high-altitude escape where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and summer heat becomes a distant memory. This elevated paradise provides natural air conditioning and a front-row seat to dramatic weather patterns rolling across the plateau, while the thin mountain air makes stars appear close enough to touch.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic ponderosa pines stand sentinel around Posey Lake, their vanilla-scented bark and towering crowns creating a natural cathedral. Interspersed groves of quaking aspens shimmer in the slightest breeze, their leaves creating nature's own wind chimes. Come summer, the forest floor explodes with wildflower color - Indian paintbrush, columbines, and lupines paint the meadows in purple, red, and gold. The centerpiece remains Posey Lake itself, its mirror-like surface reflecting the surrounding peaks and providing a serene backdrop for both quiet contemplation and active recreation.
Geological RegionRising from the ancient Colorado Plateau, this campground occupies a unique ecological niche where high desert meets mountain forest. The surrounding landscape tells a dramatic geological story - layers of sandstone, limestone, and volcanic rock create a complex tapestry that supports diverse ecosystems. Ponderosa pine forests dominate the higher elevations, while aspen groves fill the draws and meadows, creating a mosaic of habitats that change with every turn of the trail.
Advertisement
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible vault toilets and some sites that accommodate mobility needs. However, terrain may be challenging for some due to the sloped, hillside location.
Sites SizeThe campground contains 21 single-family sites and one group site for up to 35 people. Sites are described as spacious and include tent pads. 'Most sites are level and places to hang a hammock.'
Sites PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy, with some being more secluded than others. 'The camping sites are unique as they are mostly built along the mountain sides.'
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with larger bear boxes for easier food storage; sites closer to water and trails are noted for convenience.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay duration is 14 nights within a 30-day rolling period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One group site allows up to 35 people.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 35 people. 'Family camped here on the group site! Great fishing and hiking to the lookout.'
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground is built along mountainsides with sites featuring level tent pads, fire rings, picnic tables, and gravel parking spurs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Drinking water is only available during this period.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov or via phone.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available for walk-up reservations, including additional sites that may be held for first-come, first-served availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the date of scheduled arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations result in forfeiting the first night's stay fee. No-show penalties also apply.
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
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Posey Lake Campground offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing for rainbow and brook trout, canoeing, and kayaking. Non-motorized boating is allowed, and there are two hiking trails starting from the campground. Wildlife viewing is also a highlight, and the remote location makes it ideal for stargazing.
Hiking
Two hiking trails originate from the campground. The Posey Overlook Trail is a mile-long trail leading to a scenic overlook, while the Posey Spur Trail connects to the Great Western Trail, which is suitable for hiking and mountain biking. 'There’s a nice little trail along the perimeter of the lake but you need to do it early in the morning to avoid the flies.'Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Posey Lake, which is stocked with rainbow and brook trout. 'The kids had fun for hours on it in kayaks.' However, some users reported less success fishing due to weeds near the docks.Biking
Mountain biking is available on the Great Western Trail, which connects to the Posey Spur Trail from the campground.Boating
Non-motorized boating, such as canoeing and kayaking, is allowed. 'The lake is a great little spot for casual kayaking.' Motorized boats are prohibited.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight of the area, with opportunities to see birds such as Canadian geese and ducks. 'The marshes, birds, and scenery of the mountains were enjoyable.'Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited due to snow and access issues.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are the primary water sports available.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated but general campground etiquette applies.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is an American black bear habitat, and precautions such as using bear boxes are recommended.
Active alertsAs of recent reviews, water may not be available early in the season, and campers should prepare for pack-it-in-pack-it-out policies.
Weather at Posey Lake Campground
24
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are located in Escalante, including a clinic and police station.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is not available. Visitors are required to pack out their garbage. 'Pack-it-in Pack-it-out! No trash collection available. Come prepared to stow and haul out your garbage.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Posey Lake, with two docks and a boat ramp for non-motorized watercraft.
Common complaintsNoise and lack of rule enforcement are occasionally cited, along with limited potable water access early in the season.
HostCamp host 'Don' has been mentioned positively for friendliness and maintaining cleanliness.
Campground Map
Dixie National Forest, Posey Lake Campground, UT
Driving directionsFrom Highway 12 in Escalante, turn north at 300 East at the elementary school at the Posey Lake/Hell's Backbone sign. Travel 14 miles to junction of Forest Roads 153 and 154, keep left and travel 2 miles to Posey Lake Campground.
Site access can be difficult; about 14 miles of the road is gravel with some steep sections.Nearby places
Escalante - 16 miles, approximately 30 minutes travel time
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and additional camping supplies can be found in Escalante, 16 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
47 reviews
Posey Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, the reviews for Posey Lake Campground are positive, with visitors praising its peaceful location, clean facilities, and friendly camp host. Common complaints include road access difficulties and ATV noise.
Review Summaries
Based on 47 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors highlighted the clean and well-maintained vault toilets, friendly camp host, scenic hiking trails, and the lake’s suitability for fishing and kayaking. 'Bathrooms are vault but some of the...
Based on 47 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviewers noted the challenging road access, especially during wet weather, and the presence of noisy ATVs. 'The forest roads turn to mud in wet weather.' 'OHVs rule the campground all day long.'
Based on 47 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray due to mosquitoes. Avoid swimming in the lake. Plan to pack out trash as there is no collection. Arrive early for the best sites. Consider visiting nearby attractions like the...
Based on 47 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and summer are the most popular seasons, with visitors enjoying cool temperatures compared to the valley. Fall offers fewer crowds and beautiful foliage. Winter access is limited due to snow.
Based on 47 reviewsCamper Quotes
'The hike to the lookout is totally worth it. We will be back!' - Spencer Labunski. 'Posey Lake Campground exceeded our expectations. Beautiful location, great fishing, and peaceful campground.' -...
Based on 47 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 23: Described as spacious with a lot of mosquitoes. Site 14: Highlighted for its clean facilities and proximity to the lake.
Based on 47 reviewsAccessibility Features
Some sites are accessible, but the sloped terrain may present challenges for visitors with mobility issues.
Based on 47 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed. 'Great for family camping, including pets.'
Based on 47 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
0
0 review
1
2
3
4
5
Last updated November 27, 2025
Advertisement