How much does camping cost at Palisade State Park?

Camping fees at Palisade State Park range from $35-$125/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Palisade State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Palisade State Park 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 Palisade State Park before I book?

Yes! Palisade State Park has 9 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 Palisade State Park?

Palisade State Park is open Not specified.. 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 Palisade State Park?

Yes, Palisade State Park has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Are dogs allowed at Palisade State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Palisade State Park. 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 Palisade State Park?

Palisade State Park offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Sewer Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Palisade State Park?

Popular activities at Palisade State Park include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Palisade State Park

Q: Can I have a campfire at Palisade State Park?

Fire policies at Palisade State Park: Fire pits available at most sites. Must be at least 16 inches above ground unless fire restrictions are in place.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.30

164 reviews

BOX 650070, STERLING, Utah, 84665-0070, United States

Top 24% in UTFall

SwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Swimming Camping Utah

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

5,889 ft

Price

$35 - $125/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Full HookupsPull-ThroughUp to 35 ftShowers

Book on Utah State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

5,889 ft

Price

$35 - $125/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Full HookupsPull-ThroughUp to 35 ftShowers

Book on Utah State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Palisade State Park

$35.00 - $125.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campsites range from $35 to $45 depending on hookups and amenities. Cabins are priced at $100-$125 depending on amenities. Extra vehicles are charged...

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Hookup Site Fee$45.00

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4358357275

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

BOX 650070, STERLING, Utah, 84665-0070, United States

Palisade State Park

BOX 650070, STERLING, Utah, 84665-0070, United States

Nearby places

Sterling (~2 miles), Ephraim (~10 miles), Manti (~12 miles), Gunnison (~19 miles), Nephi (~30 miles)

Nearby supplies

Closest groceries, camping supplies, and essentials available in Ephraim (~10 miles). Fuel stations located in the area.

Weather at Palisade State Park

Best Time to Camp at Palisade State Park

Fall delivers the best conditions. Daytime highs run from the upper 50s to low 80s°F with nights in the 30s to 50s, making hiking and fishing more comfortable than the hot summer stretch when temperatures hit 90°F. Cottonwoods show color in October, and crowds drop off after Labor Day. Early fall still supports swimming and boating when the water holds warmth. Winter brings freezing temperatures but clear skies. The high desert climate means precipitation is light year-round.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 24% in UT

Description states fall delivers the best conditions for hiking and fishing.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Not specified.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: No specific seasonal closures. Available year-round.

About Palisade State Park

Palisade State Park sits at 5,889 feet elevation near Sterling, where a reservoir fills an old desert canyon carved by Sixmile Creek. The park offers tent sites, RV hookups, group areas, and cabins, with fees ranging from $35 to $125 per night. The campground gets crowded during peak times, but reviewers consistently praise the clean facilities and access to the lake and golf course.

Palisade State Park accommodates various camping styles including tent camping, RV sites, cabins, and group camping areas.

Historical Significance

Settlers in the 1860s diverted Sixmile Creek to create the reservoir, transforming the natural canyon into what they called a pleasure resort. The land was originally home to the Sanpitch people. The park's current layout references this history through area names: Arapein, Pioneer, Sanpitch, and Wakara.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the best conditions. Daytime highs run from the upper 50s to low 80s°F with nights in the 30s to 50s, making hiking and fishing more comfortable than the hot summer stretch when temperatures hit 90°F. Cottonwoods show color in October, and crowds drop off after Labor Day. Early fall still supports swimming and boating when the water holds warmth. Winter brings freezing temperatures but clear skies. The high desert climate means precipitation is light year-round.

ElevationSituated at Utah's characteristic high desert elevation, the park offers that perfect balance of mountain proximity and accessible terrain that makes outdoor activities comfortable year-round.

Natural Features and SceneryDesert canyon walls rise around the reservoir created when 19th-century settlers diverted Sixmile Creek. The result is an unusual landscape where red rock formations frame the water and grassy camping areas soften the transition between desert geology and lake shoreline. Cottonwoods and other riparian vegetation grow along the water's edge, providing shade in an otherwise arid environment. The contrast between the ancient canyon stone and the human-made reservoir creates dramatic morning reflections and good light for photography at sunset.

Geological RegionDiscover the fascinating geological story written in stone at Palisade State Park, where ancient desert canyon formations cradle the human-made reservoir. This remarkable landscape showcases nature's artistry alongside human innovation—the original desert canyon, carved by millennia of natural forces, now frames the waters of Sixmile Creek, diverted by 19th-century settlers. The result is a unique ecosystem where desert geology meets aquatic recreation, creating diverse habitats and stunning visual contrasts that define this special corner of Utah.

Scenic ViewsScenic views include the reservoir, surrounding golf course, and desert canyon. Sunsets over the water are especially praised.

Lodging & AccommodationsCabins are available for rent with basic or full amenities. Full amenity cabins cost $125 per night and include conveniences like air conditioning, a refrigerator, and a microwave. However, reviews note some issues with upkeep, such as cleanliness and maintenance.

Programs & ActivitiesNo specific cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Entrance station closes at 10 PM, but late arrivals are not restricted.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit not specified in authoritative sources.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum number of guests per site not specified in authoritative sources.

Groups

Five group areas are available, accommodating larger parties, with picnic shelters and other amenities.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground spreads across named areas including Arapein, Pioneer, Sanpitch, Wakara, and group cabins. Sites vary in spacing. Some are close together, but many reviewers found them spacious enough. Grassy common areas between camping sections give families room to spread out with games and outdoor toys.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via phone or on stateparks.utah.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityThe website may show full bookings but calling ahead often secures last-minute reservations.

Cancellation PolicyNot specified.

AccessibilitySome sites have paved surfaces and are accessible for RVs. However, specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are not detailed.

Site SizeCampsites appear spacious based on user reviews. For instance, Wendie Buttars mentioned, 'The campsites are spacious.

PrivacyPrivacy varies; some users noted sites are close together, while others appreciated the roominess. James Higgins stated, 'Some of the spots are a bit close together but there are several options to choose from.

Recommended SitesConsider sites closer to the beach and shaded areas for comfort. Avoid upper loop Wakara sites if seeking shade.

Best CampsitesReviewers favor sites near the water and those with good shade. Call the park directly for last-minute availability even if the website shows full. Some campers recommend bringing extra leveling blocks for RVs depending on which site you draw.

Need help booking Palisade State Park?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

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Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Palisade State Park offers a variety of amenities catering to campers and day visitors. The campground includes shower facilities, drinking water, picnic tables, and fire pits at nearly all campsites. Additionally, campers can enjoy modern restrooms, a dump station for RVs, and access to recreational rentals such as paddleboards and kayaks. Many reviews highlight the clean and well-maintained facilities, including the bathrooms.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Sewer hookups

Flush toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Electric hookups4 of 13 sites (31%)

13 pull-through sitesUp to 35 ft vehicles

Activities you can enjoy

Palisade State Park offers diverse recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and golfing. Highlights include an 18-hole golf course with well-maintained putting greens and access to paddleboards and kayak rentals for water activities.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsReported issues include gnats, lack of shade at certain sites, and broken glass in the water near beach areas.

Fire PolicyFire pits available at most sites. Must be at least 16 inches above ground unless fire restrictions are in place.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM.

Emergency ServicesClosest hospital and police station located in Ephraim (~10 miles). Ranger station available on-site.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling services are available, and park staff regularly empty garbage cans. Geoffrey Cates observed, 'The staff is great; they came by once a day and emptied the 2 garbage cans at the campground.'

Water FeaturesAdjacent to Palisade Reservoir. Many campsites are near the water, allowing easy access for recreation.

Camp HostHosts often described as friendly. Some complaints about lack of enforcement of rules.

Cell CoverageMixed reviews regarding cell service. One user, Bob, mentioned, 'Verizon signal was very good, probably due to all the ritzy vacation homes in the immediate area.'

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

From Booking Sources

4.3

164 reviews

Satisfactory

Palisade State Park is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews for Palisade State Park are generally positive, emphasizing the scenic beauty, family-friendly atmosphere, and variety of activities. Common highlights include clean facilities, the well-maintained golf course, and lake access. Negative feedback often centers on overcrowding, high fees, and the upkeep of specific amenities like cabins.

Review Summaries

Based on 164 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean bathrooms and showers, scenic lake and surroundings, family-friendly environment, and a variety of activities like golfing, kayaking, and hiking.

Based on 164 reviews

Common Concerns

Overcrowding on weekends, steep fees for additional vehicles, maintenance issues with cabins, and occasional noise from other campers.

Based on 164 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site W64 received criticism for awkward placement of utilities, as noted by Wendie Buttars.

Based on 164 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Call for last-minute reservations even if the website shows full availability. Bring extra blocks for leveling RVs at some sites. For families, pack board games and outdoor toys to make the most of...

Based on 164 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the busiest season, with crowded beaches and high demand for water rentals. Spring and fall offer quieter experiences but may have variable weather. Winter activities are not highlighted.

Based on 164 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Great find for a very relaxing fishing getaway! Camping next to the water and hungry rainbow trout!' - Kristy Rehfeldt. 2. 'Bathrooms are clean, but the showers have very poor water pressure.' -...

Based on 164 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, with some cabins prohibiting them indoors. Dani Settle commented, 'I just wish that there were some cabins that allowed pets while others did not as a lot of people bring their pets...

Based on 164 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Families who want lake swimming, paddling, and grassy space to spread out will get the most from this place. Beach areas are genuinely swim-friendly, kayak rentals are on-site, and the walking trail around the reservoir is easy enough for kids. Fall weekends after Labor Day hit t

Skip if

Showers close from 10 AM to 5 PM daily, gnats are a real nuisance near the water, and weekend crowds pack sites tight. Campers who are visibly outside the predominantly local, culturally homogeneous crowd that tends to fill this park have reported unwelcoming interactions, worth

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