How much does camping cost at Gates Lake Cua Dispersed?

Camping fees at Gates Lake Cua Dispersed range from Free. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Gates Lake Cua Dispersed first-come first-served or reservation?

Gates Lake Cua Dispersed operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Camping is on a first-come, first-served basis as this is a dispersed camping area.

Can I see photos of campsites at Gates Lake Cua Dispersed before I book?

Yes! Gates Lake Cua Dispersed has 1 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Gates Lake Cua Dispersed?

Gates Lake Cua Dispersed is open Likely within June to October, given the open dates and weather suitability.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Gates Lake Cua Dispersed?

Gates Lake Cua Dispersed does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Gates Lake Cua Dispersed?

Fire policies at Gates Lake Cua Dispersed: Campers must follow local fire restrictions and fully extinguish campfires before leaving.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Are dogs allowed at Gates Lake Cua Dispersed?

Yes, pets are allowed at Gates Lake Cua Dispersed. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Gates Lake Cua Dispersed?

Gates Lake Cua Dispersed offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Gates Lake Cua Dispersed?

Popular activities at Gates Lake Cua Dispersed include Hiking, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Gates Lake Cua Dispersed

3.69

13 reviews

115 East 900 North, Richfield, UT 84701

Summer Destination

Featured in:Fishing Camping Utah

Quick Facts

9,800 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

Open for camping fro...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

9,800 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

Open for camping fro...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Gates Lake Cua Dispersed

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

This is a free camping area with no fees for dispersed camping.

No paid fee categories listed.

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USFS

Provider

435-896-9233

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

115 East 900 North, Richfield, UT 84701

Gates Lake Cua Dispersed

115 East 900 North, Richfield, UT 84701

Nearby places

Salina, Utah (29 miles, approximately 45 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Supplies can likely be obtained from Salina, the closest town, approximately 29 miles away.

Driving directionsGates Lake is located about 29 miles southeast of Salina, Utah. In Salina at the junction of Main Street and State Street, head south on State Street for approximately 2 miles until you reach I-70. Turn left (east) onto I-70 east-bound from Salina for approximately 6.5 miles. Exit I-70 at Gooseberry Road (Exit 63) and then turn right (south) on the paved Gooseberry Road #640 for 18.4 miles. Turn right on FR040 for 2.4 miles.

The road to Gates Lake (FR040) can be rough and is not recommended for trailers. The final 2.4 miles are likely unpaved and may require capable vehicles.

Weather at Gates Lake Cua Dispersed

Best Time to Camp at Gates Lake Cua Dispersed

Summer provides the best combination of accessibility and activity. Roads and dispersed sites are reliably open from July through September, and the reservoir is ice-free for fishing and water sports. Mornings start crisp in the 30s and 40s, warming to the mid-50s through mid-70s by afternoon. Long daylight hours and clear alpine light are standard. Weekends see more ATV traffic on the 50-inch trails, but solitude is still available. Winter brings extreme cold and heavy snow that closes the area to most visitors.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Aspen presence implies strong fall color; area remains open into October for access.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Likely within June to October, given the open dates and weather suitability.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open for camping from June to October.

About Gates Lake Cua Dispersed

Gates Lake Recreation Area sits at 9,800 feet in Fishlake National Forest, offering dispersed camping alongside a reservoir surrounded by aspens and conifers. The area has vault toilets and an information kiosk. Sites accommodate tents and primitive camping. Reviewers praise the natural beauty and dispersed camping options, though the Fourth of July brings crowds.

Gates Lake Recreation Area is primarily a dispersed camping site. There are no developed facilities for RVs, groups, or glamping.

Weather and SeasonsSummer provides the best combination of accessibility and activity. Roads and dispersed sites are reliably open from July through September, and the reservoir is ice-free for fishing and water sports. Mornings start crisp in the 30s and 40s, warming to the mid-50s through mid-70s by afternoon. Long daylight hours and clear alpine light are standard. Weekends see more ATV traffic on the 50-inch trails, but solitude is still available. Winter brings extreme cold and heavy snow that closes the area to most visitors.

ElevationPerched at nearly 9,800 feet above sea level, Gates Lake Recreation Area offers the rare opportunity to camp among the clouds. At this breathtaking elevation, the atmosphere becomes noticeably thinner, creating crystalline skies by day and spectacular stargazing by night. Visitors should prepare for the altitude's effects – cooler temperatures year-round, more intense sun exposure, and the need to acclimate gradually. The reward? Unparalleled mountain vistas and the exhilarating feeling of being on top of the world.

Natural Features and SceneryThe reservoir anchors this high-altitude landscape, its waters bordered by mixed forest of quaking aspen and conifers. At nearly 9,800 feet, the terrain reflects millions of years of volcanic activity and glacial shaping. The surrounding peaks and valleys show distinct geological layering. The reservoir's microclimate supports the forest growth, and wildlife moves through the area regularly enough that patient observers can spot mountain species.

Geological RegionNestled within the ancient landscape of Fishlake National Forest, Gates Lake Recreation Area showcases the geological wonders of Utah's high country. At nearly 9,800 feet, this remarkable terrain tells a story millions of years in the making, where volcanic activity and glacial forces sculpted the land into today's dramatic topography. The mixed forest of aspens and conifers thrives in the unique microclimate created by the reservoir, while the surrounding peaks and valleys reveal layers of geological history to those who know how to read the rocks.

Scenic ViewsSurrounding views are of aspen and conifer forests, with the Gates Lake reservoir providing a scenic focal point. No specific mention of panoramic or distant views.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available. The site is strictly for camping.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

16 days, 15 nights. After this, campers must relocate at least 5 road miles away.

Groups

No designated group sites or information about group camping.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Reservation PlatformsNo reservations required; the area is first-come, first-served.

Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is on a first-come, first-served basis as this is a dispersed camping area.

AccessibilityNo specific details about accessibility options for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeNo specific information on campsite sizes is provided.

PrivacyNo information available on campsite privacy or layout.

Amenities available

Potable water is not available at this site.

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

This recreation area offers a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, ATV trail riding, hiking, wildlife viewing, and dispersed camping. The Gates Lake Reservoir is a focal point for fishing enthusiasts.

Hiking

Fishing

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe road to the site (FR040) can be rough and is not recommended for trailers. High elevation conditions may include sudden weather changes.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets not available; a vault restroom is provided.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyCampers must follow local fire restrictions and fully extinguish campfires before leaving.

Emergency ServicesThe Supervisors Office & Richfield Ranger District, located at 115 East 900 North, Richfield, UT 84701, provides contact support for the area (Phone: 435-896-9233, Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 4:30 PM).

Trash & RecyclingCampers are required to pack out all trash. Dedicated trash and recycling facilities are not available.

Water FeaturesNext to the Gates Lake reservoir, which is a popular fishing spot.

Cell CoverageNo information about cell phone service quality or availability.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.7

13 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Gates Lake Cua Dispersed has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the scenic beauty of the area and its suitability for dry camping. The Fourth of July tends to be crowded with visitors.

Review Summaries

Based on 13 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers appreciate the natural beauty and the opportunity for dispersed camping. One reviewer described it as a "Beautiful area great place to dry camp."

Based on 13 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent rough road conditions are noted, especially the access road (FR040), which is not recommended for trailers.

Based on 13 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No reviews mention specific site numbers or areas within the campground.

Based on 13 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring sufficient water and firewood as these amenities are not available. Be prepared for rough road conditions and crowded conditions during holidays like the Fourth of July.

Based on 13 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summers bring more visitors, particularly during the Fourth of July and other holidays. The stay limit of 16 days is more relevant during the peak summer season.

Based on 13 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Beautiful area great place to dry camp." - James Higgins. "It's the 4th of July and many campers." - Traveling Man.

Based on 13 reviews

Accessibility Features

No user reviews specifically discuss accessibility features or challenges.

Based on 13 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No user reviews specifically address pet policies, though dogs must be leashed, and their waste disposed of properly.

Based on 13 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Tent campers and overlanders who haul their own water will find real solitude here most of summer and fall. The reservoir is the draw for fishing, and the aspen-and-conifer setting delivers without a fee.

Skip if

FR040 is rough enough that trailers aren't recommended, and there's no potable water on-site. The nearest resupply is 29 miles in Salina. Holiday weekends, especially Fourth of July, fill this place up fast.

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Salina Reservoir Cua Dispersed sits at 9,700 feet in Fishlake National Forest, where aspen and conifer forest meets high-elevation fishing water. The area offers first-come, first-served dispersed camping with vault toilets and a gravel parking area. It's quiet and remote, but there's no potable water and bathroom access is limited.

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Harves River Cua Dispersed sits in a high-elevation meadow at 9,500 feet in Fishlake National Forest, surrounded by aspen and conifer trees. The area offers free dispersed camping with vault toilets and bear lockers. It gets crowded around holidays like the Fourth of July, so arrive early if you're visiting during peak times.

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Farnsworth Cua Dispersed

Farnsworth Dispersed Camping Area, 23 miles southeast of Salina, Utah

Farnsworth Cua Dispersed sits at 9,000 feet in Fishlake National Forest, where vault toilets and gravel access roads serve primitive and RV campers seeking high-elevation solitude. The campground earns a 5.0 rating from six reviewers. Dispersed sites spread across ancient aspen groves that turn gold and orange each fall.

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Gooseberry Admin Site Cabins

115 EAST 900 NORTH, RICHFIELD, UT 84701, USA

Gooseberry Admin Site Cabins sits at 8,000 feet in Fishlake National Forest near Salina, offering a group-focused retreat with multiple cabins, a recreation hall, and full amenities including showers and flush toilets. Operated as a premium reservation site, it caters to family reunions, scout groups, and other large gatherings seeking a high-elevation alpine setting with hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing access. The aspen-shaded location provides comfortable summer conditions, though reviewers note occasional wasp activity and overnight gate closures.

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Cold Springs Cua Dispersed

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Cold Springs Cua Dispersed sits at over 9,000 feet in Fishlake National Forest, about 20 miles from Salina, Utah. The dispersed sites spread through shaded aspen groves, offering free primitive camping with vault toilets and bear lockers. Reviewers call it a "beautiful area great place to dry camp."

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Mt Terrill Guard Station

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Mt Terrill Guard Station sits at 9,800 feet in Fishlake National Forest, a high-alpine rental cabin with tent and RV sites managed by the Forest Service near Salina. The rustic cabin and surrounding campsites offer access to wildflower meadows, fishing, and trail networks, though the property has no water or electricity and the gate closes overnight. Summer brings warm days and crisp nights ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing, with July peak wildflower season.

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Rex Reservoir Cua Dispersed

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Rex Reservoir sits at 7,200 feet in Fishlake National Forest, a dispersed camping area where you pick your own spot along the shoreline. The campground has one vault toilet and an information kiosk. Summer is the best season for access and weather, with daytime highs in the mid-60s to mid-80s°F. Roads can get slick when wet.

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Paiute Campground sits at 8,800 feet in Fishlake National Forest with 47 paved pull-through sites designed for RVs. Fees run $10 per night. The open sagebrush setting means big views of Johnson Valley Reservoir and surrounding peaks, but zero privacy between sites and no shade whatsoever.

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P.O Box 129 138 south man Loa, UT 84747, USA

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Campgrounds

Fishlake National Forest

Gates Lake Cua Dispersed

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Gates Lake Cua Dispersed sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p><img alt="canoes on the edge of Gate Lake" class="float-left margin-right-2" max-width="650px" src="http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_MEDIA/FSEPRD1133263.jpg" style="width: 60%;" /></p><p>Gates Lake dispersed recreation site is located next to Gates Lake reservoir at an elevation of nearly 9,800 feet and is shaded by aspen and conifer trees.  Facilities include a vault restroom and information kiosk.  Gates Lake reservoir is available for fishing.  The road to Gates Lake (FR040) can be rough and is not recommended for trailers.  There is also 50" ATV riding on designated routes, camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing.  Please pack-out all you pack-in.  Camping stay limit is 16 days. </p>

Open Season: June – October