Fishlake National Forest wilderness guide
National Forest · UT

Fishlake National Forest

Fishlake National Forest is celebrated for its vast landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the serene beauty of Fish Lake, its namesake and largest natural mountain lake in the state of Utah.

National Forest1,480,3304+ Trails

Designation

National Forest

Total Wilderness Area

1,480,330

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Fishlake National Forest

Fishlake National Forest is celebrated for its vast landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the serene beauty of Fish Lake, its namesake and largest natural mountain lake in the state of Utah.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Fishlake National Forest, established in 1907, spans across approximately 1.5 million acres in central Utah's Sevier and Piute counties. This extensive forest features a diverse mix of terrain ranging from high mountain areas to rolling desert. Known for its signature Fish Lake, a pristine body fed by scenic mountain streams, the forest provides a habitat for diverse wildlife including elk, deer, and numerous bird species. The scenery includes sprawling aspen groves, particularly the famous Pando clone, one of the world's largest and oldest living organisms by mass. Outdoor enthusiasts find ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing, with several developed campgrounds offering access to overnight stays among nature's silence. Historically, the area has seen the influence of Native American tribes and later European settlers, creating a rich cultural backdrop for visitors to explore. The forest's appeal lies not only in its biological diversity but also in the recreational activities it supports all year round.

Field Guide · National Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Fishlake National Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Fish Lake—Utah's largest natural mountain lake, perfect for trout fishing.✦ Pando Aspen Clone—one of the world's oldest and largest living organisms.✦ Capitol Reef Scenic Byway—offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.✦ Fremont Indian State Park and Museum—showcasing ancient petroglyphs and artifacts.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Fishlake National Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Fishlake National Forest
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Fishlake National Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Fishlake National Forest
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Fishlake National Forest
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Fishlake National Forest
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Fishlake National Forest
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Fishlake National Forest
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Fishlake National Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Fishlake National Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Fishlake National Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Access is generally free, but fees may apply for campgrounds or specific recreation sites.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Fishlake National Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Fishlake National Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Sevier, Utah
⌖ 28.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sevier, Utah

Sevier, Utah offers outdoor lovers a blend of hiking, mountain biking, river rafting, and fishing along the scenic Sevier River and Fishlake National Forest. This quiet town is an ideal basecamp for uncrowded adventures from late spring through fall.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Marysvale, Utah
⌖ 29.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Marysvale, Utah

Marysvale, Utah, is a rugged adventure hub with legendary mountain biking, serene fishing spots, and hidden caves. Surrounded by towering canyons and forested peaks, it offers an inviting base to challenge trails, climb cliffs, or relax beside mountain streams.

Late spring through early fall
Explore Town
Emery, Utah
⌖ 34.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Emery, Utah

Emery, Utah, is an authentic desert adventure town offering hiking, mountain biking, backpacking, and rock climbing amid the vast San Rafael Swell. With slot canyons, scenic backcountry trails, and solitude, it’s perfect for outdoor explorers looking for quiet wilderness.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Manti, Utah
⌖ 46.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Manti, Utah

Manti, Utah, is a charming mountain town offering hiking, mountain biking, canyoneering, and winter sports amid stunning canyon landscapes and historic sites. Its access to Manti-La Sal National Forest and local trails makes it a quiet yet thrilling outdoor destination.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Ephraim, Utah
⌖ 53.36 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ephraim, Utah

Ephraim, Utah offers year-round outdoor adventures from rugged hiking and mountain biking to pristine fishing and winter snowmobiling. Surrounded by national forest and scenic reservoirs, it’s a hidden gem for active travelers seeking solitude and variety.

Late Spring through Early Fall for most activities; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Castle Dale, Utah
⌖ 57.10 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Castle Dale, Utah

Castle Dale offers outdoor fans access to the San Rafael Swell’s stunning desert canyons and mountain forests. With hiking, biking, fishing, and camping options, it’s an ideal quiet basecamp for exploring eastern Utah’s open spaces.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Fishlake National Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

An Hour on Horseback Across Fishlake: Riding the Water Pocket Fold from Torrey
ADVEXPEDITION
Torrey, Utah
HorseADV Bookable

An Hour on Horseback Across Fishlake: Riding the Water Pocket Fold from Torrey

A one-hour guided horse ride operated by Wilderness Ridge Adventures that takes riders through Fishlake National Park scenery — including the Water Pocket Fold, Red Bluff, and the Petrified Forest — useful as a concise, on-the-ground guide for first-time riders.

HorsePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Flat‑Track Adrenaline at Sevier County Fairgrounds
ADVEXPEDITION
Richfield, Utah
HorseADV Bookable

Flat‑Track Adrenaline at Sevier County Fairgrounds

Outdoor track rentals in Richfield for equine races (flat track only) or non‑equine events that alter the surface — this guide covers pricing, deposit policy, and what to expect for a full‑day rental.

HorsePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip