How much does camping cost at Lower Bowns?

Camping fees at Lower Bowns are $20 - $75/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Lower Bowns first-come first-served or reservation?

Lower Bowns accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Lower Bowns before I book?

Yes! Lower Bowns has 7 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 Lower Bowns?

Lower Bowns is open May 15 to September 29. 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 Lower Bowns?

Lower Bowns does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Lower Bowns have?

Lower Bowns has 3 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Lower Bowns?

Yes, pets are allowed at Lower Bowns. 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 Lower Bowns?

Lower Bowns offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Lower Bowns?

Popular activities at Lower Bowns include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Lower Bowns

3.80

56 reviews

138 South Main St., Loa, UT, 84747, USA

Top 25% in UTSpring

C-Report Card

Summer Destination

Featured in:Best Campgrounds Utah

Quick Facts

7,000 ft

Price

$20 - $75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Open May 15–Septembe...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Fishlake National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

7,000 ft

Price

$20 - $75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Open May 15–Septembe...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Fishlake National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Lower Bowns

$20.00 - $75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $75.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $20.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in...

Group Site Fee$75.00

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dihunn1@aim.com

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Campground Map

138 South Main St., Loa, UT, 84747, USA

Lower Bowns

138 South Main St., Loa, UT, 84747, USA

Nearby places

Torrey, Utah (approximately 22 miles, 35-minute drive)

Weather at Lower Bowns

Best Time to Camp at Lower Bowns

Best season: spring. Late spring (after the May 15 opening) delivers the best combination of comfortable daytime highs (typically 55–70°F), crisp nights (30s–40s), full reservoir levels from snowmelt, and abundant wildflowers and migratory birds. Fishing and boating are at their peak as the reservoir fills and water temperatures remain cool, and trails are usually snow-free or melting out — offering excellent hiking and wildlife viewing with relatively low crowds compared with mid-summer. Remote access roads are fir Peak months: June, May, September, July Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Top 25% in UT

Late spring (after May 15 opening) noted as best: comfortable temps and full reservoir from snowmelt.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to September 29. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 15–September 29 annually. Out of season bookings not available.

About Lower Bowns

Lower Bowns sits in the high-elevation alpine terrain of Fishlake National Forest near Loa, Utah, operated by the U.S. Forest Service. This very small campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, serving as a base for fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Reviewers praise the quiet atmosphere, dark skies for stargazing, and access to trails and reservoir recreation, though rough access roads and seasonal low water levels can affect the experience.

Lower Bowns Campground offers a mix of camping accommodations including group campsites and individual sites suitable for RVs and tents. Dispersed camping options are also available nearby.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: spring. Late spring (after the May 15 opening) delivers the best combination of comfortable daytime highs (typically 55–70°F), crisp nights (30s–40s), full reservoir levels from snowmelt, and abundant wildflowers and migratory birds. Fishing and boating are at their peak as the reservoir fills and water temperatures remain cool, and trails are usually snow-free or melting out — offering excellent hiking and wildlife viewing with relatively low crowds compared with mid-summer. Remote access roads are fir Peak months: June, May, September, July Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation7000 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground overlooks Lower Bowns Reservoir, surrounded by pinyon and juniper woodlands typical of Utah's high desert. Sparse vegetation means little natural shade at the sites, but it opens up views to the Henry Mountains in the east and Capitol Reef's Waterpocket Fold to the west. When reservoir levels are full, the water reflects the surrounding rock formations. During dry periods, low water levels diminish the scenery. The exposed landscape shows layers of colored rock and the adapted vegetation of this ecosystem where three of Utah's geological provinces meet.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground does not offer lodging or accommodations beyond campsites.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Camping is limited to a maximum of 16 days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Two single sites can each accommodate up to 10 people.

Groups

One group site is available, capable of accommodating up to 50 people.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityAccessible sites are available, including one group site accommodating up to 50 people and two single sites for up to 10 people each.

Site SizeGroup site accommodates up to 50 people; single sites accommodate up to 10 people each.

PrivacyPrivacy is limited, particularly at the group campsite, as its firepit is located close to dispersed camping areas.

Total Campsites3 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid tent camping in areas prone to ants; consider sites closer to the lake for better scenery. "Inspecting the area before reserving a site here if you’re tent camping.

Best CampsitesCampsite 003 gets positive mentions for cleanliness and proximity to the lake. The group site has privacy issues, as its firepit sits close to dispersed camping areas nearby.

Need help booking Lower Bowns?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

There are no electricity, water or sewer site hookups at the campground.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Lower Bowns

Lower Bowns Campground offers a range of recreational activities both within the campground and in nearby areas. These include boating, canoeing, fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, biking, hunting, and exploring ATV trails. The Lower Bowns Reservoir provides opportunities for water-based activities, although fishing from the shore may be less rewarding due to the presence of small fish and low water levels during certain seasons.

Boating4.0/5

Boating and canoeing are described as popular on Lower Bowns Reservoir.

Water Sports4.0/5

Wildlife viewing3.5/5

Wildlife viewing is noted; deer and other animals commonly spotted in pinyon-juniper woodlands.

Hiking3.0/5

Nearby trails and access to Capitol Reef (45 min); hiking is a commonly listed activity.

Fishing3.0/5

Biking3.0/5

Biking opportunities exist on trails in and around the campground; suitable for outdoor riding.

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Clear views of Henry Mts and Waterpocket Fold plus sunrise/sunset lake scenes and dark skies.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

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

No Flush ToiletsNo flush toilets are available; vault toilets are provided instead.

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.

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

3.8

56 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Lower Bowns has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Lower Bowns Campground vary widely, with positive comments highlighting its quiet, scenic location and clean facilities. Negative reviews focus on challenges such as aggressive ants, rough access roads, and limited shade at campsites.

Review Summaries

Based on 56 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 56 reviews.

Site 003Loved
Site 003: Positive user sentiment about cleanliness and quietness, though ants are mentioned.
Site 002Issues noted
Site 002: Multiple reviewers report issues with aggressive ants and challenges with fishing due to low reservoir levels..

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the campground's cleanliness, scenic views, and proximity to recreational activities such as hiking and boating. The quiet atmosphere and opportunities for stargazing are also...

Based on 56 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include aggressive ants, lack of water hookups, rough access roads, and limited shade. Reviewers note challenges with fishing due to low reservoir levels and dense vegetation along the...

Based on 56 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring water and toilet paper due to limited facilities. Inspect campsites for ants before setting up tents. Avoid the campground during periods of low reservoir levels if fishing is a priority.

Based on 56 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews often mention good weather but note challenges such as rough roads and aggressive ants. Fall reviews highlight quietness and cooler temperatures but describe low reservoir levels and...

Based on 56 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Beautiful scenery! It was hard to fish without a boat right now due to the lake being so low and vegetation around the edges.' - Alec Slifer 2. 'A pretty and woodsy campground which was extremely...

Based on 56 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible features include vault toilets and group sites accommodating larger gatherings. Users with mobility challenges may face difficulties due to rough gravel roads and lack of paved paths.

Based on 56 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but some users report challenges with ants when walking pets, particularly near trailers.

Based on 56 reviews

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Lower Bowns

$20.00 - $75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $75.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $20.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in...

Group Site Fee$75.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

dihunn1@aim.com

Go if

You want a small, peaceful campground with dark skies and access to fishing, boating, and mountain trails.

Skip if

You need on-site water, smooth access roads, or guaranteed high reservoir levels for water activities.

Nearby Campgrounds

Rosebud ATV is a small, high-elevation campground in Fishlake National Forest near Loa, managed seasonally for off-road enthusiasts and anglers. At 8,300 feet in ponderosa forest, the campground offers primitive tent and group sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Visitors come for ATV trail access, fishing and boating on nearby Lower Bowns Reservoir, and wildlife viewing in a quiet alpine setting.

Lower Bowns

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Weather at Lower Bowns

Best Time to Camp at Lower Bowns

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About Lower Bowns

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Amenities available

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Common Concerns