Mackinaw
4.6149 reviews138 South Main, PO BOX 129, Loa, Utah, UT 84747, USA
Quick Facts
9,000 ftPrice
$20/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
20 campsites
Season
Open season is from ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyShowers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
9,000 ftPrice
$20/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
20 campsites
Season
Open season is from ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyShowers
Get DirectionsMackinaw
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Recreational use fees, including camping, are $20 per night for regular camps with bathrooms, tables, and showers. Additional fees include $0.50 per...
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$20.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
ProviderWhat Campers Say
4.61
Top-Rated
Based on 49 reviews
60 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewsquietcleanshowers
"Reviews highlight the campground's beautiful views, peaceful atmosphere, and proximity to Fish Lake as major advantages. Amenities such as flush toilets and coin-operated showers have mixed feedback regarding cleanliness and maintenance. Friendly camp hosts are frequently praised."
Fees & Passes at Mackinaw
$20/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Camping is limited to 16 days.
Cancellation: Cancellations may incur a $10 fee and, for late cancellations, the first night's recreational fee wi...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Recreation.gov website.
Best Time to Camp at Mackinaw
Summer nights at Mackinaw remind you why mountain camping requires that extra sleeping bag – even July evenings can dip into surprisingly cool temperatures at this elevation. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a golden wonderland as thousands of aspens paint the hillsides in brilliant yellows and oranges. Early season visitors should prepare for possible snow flurries, while peak summer brings warm days perfect for lake activities followed by refreshingly cool evenings around the campfire.
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: Peak season is suggested to align with Memorial Day to Labor Day, though exact dates are unspecified.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open season is from Memorial Day to Labor Day, though specific dates outside of these seasonal ranges are not provided.
About Mackinaw
Perched high in the alpine wilderness at 9,000 feet, Mackinaw Campground beckons adventurers seeking refuge among dancing aspen groves and sweeping lake vistas. This mountain sanctuary offers an intimate escape where single-family campers and groups alike can wake to crisp mountain air and fall asleep under a canopy of stars. Whether you're drawn to the shimmering waters of Fish Lake Basin or simply craving the tranquility of high-country camping, Mackinaw delivers an authentic mountain experience where nature's rhythms replace the rush of everyday life.
The campground accommodates tent, RV, and group camping, with specific site types including Standard Nonelectric and Group Nonelectric. No primitive or glamping options are noted.
Weather and SeasonsSummer nights at Mackinaw remind you why mountain camping requires that extra sleeping bag – even July evenings can dip into surprisingly cool temperatures at this elevation. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a golden wonderland as thousands of aspens paint the hillsides in brilliant yellows and oranges. Early season visitors should prepare for possible snow flurries, while peak summer brings warm days perfect for lake activities followed by refreshingly cool evenings around the campfire.
ElevationAt 9,000 feet above sea level, Mackinaw Campground sits in that sweet spot of mountain elevation where the air is thin enough to make you catch your breath but pure enough to fill your lungs with alpine clarity. This lofty perch creates a natural air conditioning system, offering relief from summer heat while demanding respect for mountain weather. Visitors often find themselves pleasantly surprised by afternoon warmth giving way to evenings that call for fleece jackets and hot cocoa.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to sunlight filtering through quaking aspen leaves while panoramic views of Fish Lake stretch before you like a painted canvas. Mackinaw's sagebrush-dotted hillside location provides the perfect vantage point for watching morning mist rise from the water below. The surrounding aspen forests create natural privacy between sites while hosting a symphony of wildlife – from mule deer grazing at dawn to chorus lines of songbirds greeting each day. This pristine pocket of wilderness showcases nature's artistry in every direction.
Geological RegionNestled within the embrace of Fishlake National Forest, Mackinaw Campground claims its place on the ancient sagebrush slopes overlooking Fish Lake Basin – home to Utah's largest natural mountain lake. This geological treasure sits where volcanic activity and glacial carving created a high-altitude basin now crowned with one of the world's largest aspen colonies. The campground's hillside position above the valley floor offers campers a front-row seat to this remarkable landscape, where millennia of natural forces have sculpted a playground for modern adventurers.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityPartial shade provided by aspen trees. Roads and parking spurs are paved for accessibility.
Sites SizeSites range from single-family to group sites accommodating up to 20 people each.
Sites PrivacySites tend to be very close to neighboring sites, limiting privacy according to reviews.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites with limited shade and proximity to rocks. Select campsites with clear lake views or more shade for a balanced experience.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 11:00 AM local time.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM local time.
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 16 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each group site can accommodate up to 20 people.
Groups
Four group sites accommodating up to 20 people each.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes single-family and group sites spread across loops, with paved roads and parking spurs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is from Memorial Day to Labor Day, though specific dates outside of these seasonal ranges are not provided.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThere are no clear details about walk-up availability; however, the campground is reservable in advance.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations may incur a $10 fee and, for late cancellations, the first night's recreational fee will be forfeited. Further changes may incur additional costs depending on when the cancellation occurs.
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.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Activities include fishing, boating, hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and biking. Fish Lake, Utah's largest natural mountain lake, is known for its lake trout and other fish species. Nearby trails offer panoramic views and opportunities for exploration.
Hiking
Pelican Canyon Trail (5 miles) starts nearby and leads to Fish Lake Hightop at 11,633 feet elevation, featuring diverse landscapes. The Lakeshore National Recreation Trail is another popular hiking spot, offering stunning lake views after a 900-foot elevation climb.Fishing
Fish Lake is renowned for its Mackinaw lake trout (20-40 pounds), rainbow trout, and splake. Fishing opportunities extend to nearby Johnson Valley Reservoir.Swimming
Swimming and scuba diving are popular in Fish Lake, although specific facilities for swimming are not detailed.Biking
Biking opportunities exist but specific trails or terrain details are not provided.Boating
Boating, canoeing, and kayaking are widely enjoyed on Fish Lake. Nearby resorts offer boat rentals.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer and various birds can be spotted. Aspen trees provide a habitat for numerous species.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned.Water Sports
Popular non-motorized water sports include canoeing and kayaking.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, and firewood can be purchased from the host for $7 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are generally observed at night, though specific times are not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsCaution is advised due to rocky terrain, low temperatures at night, and occasional wildlife such as hornets at individual campsites.
Weather at Mackinaw
25
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 27.6 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Emergency Services
For emergency services, visitors can access facilities in nearby Loa, Utah, which is the closest population center with essential services.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is suggested to align with Memorial Day to Labor Day, though exact dates are unspecified.
Trash and recyclingThis is a 'pack it in-pack it out' facility, so no garbage services are provided. Campers are advised to bring their own garbage bags.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to Fish Lake, visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, and lakeside trails.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention dirty and poorly maintained restrooms, complaints about proximity to neighboring sites, and lack of shade at certain campsites.
HostThe camp host, Karen, is frequently mentioned as friendly and helpful, keeping the camp clean and providing firewood for $7 per bundle.
Campground Map
138 South Main, PO BOX 129, Loa, Utah, UT 84747, USA
Driving directionsFrom Highway 24 northwest of Loa, Utah, take Highway 25 northeast 9 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads from Highway 25, which is noted as being 9 miles northeast of Loa. There are no indications of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Nearby places
Loa, Utah (9 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Three resorts located in the Fish Lake Basin offer camping and fishing supplies, groceries, gas, laundry facilities, and showers. These are operational from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
49 reviews
Mackinaw is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's beautiful views, peaceful atmosphere, and proximity to Fish Lake as major advantages. Amenities such as flush toilets and coin-operated showers have mixed feedback regarding cleanliness and maintenance. Friendly camp hosts are frequently praised.
Review Summaries
Based on 49 reviews
What Campers Love
Scenic views of Fish Lake, clean coin-operated showers, exceptional drinking water quality, and helpful camp hosts are commonly noted. Several reviewers recommend visiting for the nighttime sky views...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues include poorly maintained bathrooms with spider webs and broken fixtures, proximity of sites limiting privacy, and occasional insect problems such as hornets. Some users report uncleaned or...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring quarters for showers, soap for sinks, and layers for cold nights. A bundle of firewood is available for $7 from the camp hosts, which is considered a good deal. Avoid parking near bathrooms to...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Fall is particularly praised for changing leaves and minimal bugs, while summer offers clear skies for stargazing. After Labor Day, the campground is noted for peacefulness.
Based on 49 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Absolutely beautiful and peaceful, no real critters to bother you and very minimal bugs." - Ken Krogue
"The best tasting water I think I've ever had." - Addy Sales
"It gets pretty cold at night due...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 004: Close to restrooms but limited shade.
Site 010: Infested with hornets.
Site 057: Previous occupants reported; host admitted mistake.
Site 058: Scenic lake views; deer spotted nearby.
Site...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Paved roads and parking spurs make the campground accessible. Partial shade is provided by aspen trees. No specific reviews from users with disabilities.
Based on 49 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed. Some users mention allergic reactions possibly caused by stinging nettle, so exercise caution.
Based on 49 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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