The Joes Valley Campground continues its scheduled closure for significant upgrades and renovations, according to recent updates from the U.S. Forest Service. The facility has been undergoing construction since October 8, 2025, as part of an effort to provide an enhanced camping experience for visitors to the Manti-La Sal National Forest.
Ongoing Campground Renovations
The campground, located within the Ferron Recreation Region, is slated to remain closed through July 26, 2026. The U.S. Forest Service noted that the construction project is intended to modernize the site's amenities for the public.
The Joes Valley Reservoir Campground sits in a high mountain valley at an elevation of approximately 7,000 feet. The surrounding landscape features a mix of juniper, pinyon pine, and sagebrush, with aspen and pine trees dotting the nearby hillsides. While the campground itself is undergoing renovations, the area remains a significant destination for outdoor recreation.
Recreational Opportunities Nearby
The site serves as a gateway to various recreational activities, including fishing for cutthroat, rainbow trout, and trophy splake in the reservoir. Visitors frequently utilize the area for boating, water skiing, canoeing, and motorized recreation.
The expansive Arapeen OHV Trail System is located just west of the reservoir. This system includes more than 350 miles of designated, well-maintained trails designed to accommodate all riding skill levels. Other activities available in the vicinity include hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Access and Navigation
For those planning visits to the reservoir area, the U.S. Forest Service provides specific navigational details. From Orangeville, Utah, travelers can head northwest on State Route 29 for approximately 14 miles to reach the Joes Valley Reservoir.
To access the campground specifically, visitors must follow SR-29 around the reservoir for about five miles toward the west side of the reservoir, passing the Pavilion. The route continues southeast on Forest Road 0170 for 0.14 miles, then east on Forest Road 0167 into the campground area.
Ranger District Information
The Joes Valley Campground is part of the Ferron/Price Ranger District, which maintains an office located at 115 West Canyon Road in Ferron, Utah. The district office operates from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., though it remains closed on federal holidays.
While the campground is currently undergoing renovations, the U.S. Forest Service has indicated that sites can be booked through early October via Recreation.gov.
Site Amenities and Conditions
The campground features several single- and double-family campsites, all of which are designed to be accessible. The site includes paved roads and parking spurs, as well as a boat ramp for reservoir access. Amenities at the site include picnic tables, though the U.S. Forest Service notes that restrooms and potable water are not available at this specific location.
Historically, Joes Valley has been one of the earliest areas on the Wasatch Plateau to open for recreation. However, officials remind travelers that upper elevation roads leading from the valley are unpaved and typically remain impassable until late spring or early summer.
Regional Services
The Orangeville City Fire Department provides fire services for the region near the reservoir. As of July 2026, the campground's renovation remains the primary focus for the Manti-La Sal National Forest in this recreation area.
