Otter Creek
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Otter Creek is a popular BLM destination in south-central Utah that offers RV travelers scenic reservoir views, excellent fishing, and easy access to outdoor recreation. Whether you're planning to fish for trout, launch a boat, or explore portions of the Paiute ATV Trail, the area makes a relaxing basecamp. Sagebrush-covered hills and mountain vistas create a peaceful camping setting, with both developed and dispersed campsites available. Most access roads begin as pavement before transitioning to well-maintained gravel. A smaller RV with higher ground clearance can make it easier to explore the dispersed camping areas.
Quick Facts About RVing in Otter Creek
• RV Friendly: Yes • Max RV Length: Up to 45 feet (South Point Recreation Site) • Camping Type: Both developed (semi-primitive) and dispersed camping • Reservations: No (first come, first served) • Hookups: None • Dump Station: Otter Creek State Park (south end of the reservoir) • Potable Water: Bring your own (none available onsite) • Cell Service: Spotty • Pets: Allowed (must remain supervised at all times) • Roads: Paved highways with maintained gravel/dirt access roads to BLM camping areas • Best Season: Spring, summer, and fall
Why RV Travelers Love This BLM Area
• Direct access to the Paiute ATV Trail • Choice of developed campgrounds or peaceful dispersed camping • Spacious campsites accommodating RVs up to 45 feet • Convenient basecamp for trout fishing, boating, and exploring the reservoir • Peaceful boondocking on the reservoir's east side • Easy drive to Otter Creek State Park amenities • Excellent destination for multi-day RV getaways
What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Paiute Trail
A flat dirt track with a trailhead at the reservoir, this trail makes an appealing way to see the surrounding countryside and is appropriate for all ages and skill levels.
Length: 5 miles
Intensity: Easy
Fishing and Boating
The waters of Otter Creek are clear and cold, ensuring that it’s the ideal haven for its population of rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, and brown trout. The reservoir itself covers more than 3,000 acres, making boating, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming some of the top pursuits while visiting. Fees to enter the park include the use of the boat launches for watercraft.
Climbing
While there’s no climbing at Otter Creek, Bryce Canyon is around 40 miles away and offers both repelling and climbing opportunities at the Aquarius Plateau. This volcanic outcropping provides cliff faces with plenty of challenging routes to take. Visitors should pack all the necessary gear and use caution during their climb. Many of the rock formations and cliffs in Bryce Canyon are delicate or are composed of dangerous, shale-like rock, so visitors should restrict their climbing to the Aquarius Plateau area.
Wildlife Viewing
Otter Creek is lucky to lie directly in the path of the Pacific Migratory Bird Flyway, making it an advantageous place to be in the spring or fall when dozens of bird species are migrating. At other times of the year, bird-watchers may see golden eagles, Cooper's hawks, kestrels, ravens, mountain bluebirds, owls, and dozens of other species common to the area. This part of Utah is also popular with hunters, and the surrounding hills are filled with deer and elk.
Picnicking
There’s a picnic pavilion with tables for general use.
ATV Riding
Otter Creek is an especially popular spot to explore using ATVs. The Paiute Trail system includes several trails appropriate for riding ATVs and is accessed at the reservoir. There are also several trails on Paunsaugunt Plateau located directly adjacent to the reservoir.
Bureau of Land Management Camping
RV Camping 
BLM RV camping is welcome at Otter Creek at the South Point Recreation Site. There are dozens of campsites for vehicles that are 45 feet or less in length, and while most of them are back-in only, some offer pull-through access. Many of the campsites are directly on the reservoir’s shoreline, allowing quick and convenient access to the water for kayaks or swimming. There isn’t potable water available for campers, so RV users will want to ensure they bring enough supplies for the duration of their stay. There are pit toilets, showers, a dump station, and picnic facilities available.
Developed Campgrounds
The developed camping at Otter Creek is spread across three semi-primitive BLM recreation sites on the west side of the reservoir. All sites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and none of them have hookups. Camping fees apply and are collected when you reserve your campsite. Check the Otter Creek State Park for current rates. South Point Recreation Site • Welcomes RVs up to 45 feet long • Launch your boat directly from the campground • Quick access to the Paiute ATV Trail • Picnic tables at individual campsites • Vault toilets available for campers • Great choice for anglers and boaters Tamarisk Point Recreation Site • Positioned along the reservoir's shoreline • Popular destination for trout fishing • Restroom facilities provided onsite • Picnic areas for outdoor meals • Convenient place to relax between water activities • Well-suited for self-contained RVs Fisherman's Beach Recreation Site • Easy access to productive fishing areas • Close to a public boat launch • Camp near the water's edge • Onsite restroom facilities • Tables available for picnics and meal preparation • Peaceful setting for a quiet overnight stay
Dispersed Camping
To take advantage of a more secluded and free camping experience, RV travelers should head to the east side of the reservoir, where dispersed camping is allowed. RV travelers should plan ahead and bring sufficient water, food, and supplies. • No potable water • No reservations required • Suitable for self-contained RVs • Follow the 14-day stay limit on BLM land • Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles Access roads are maintained gravel but can become rough after storms. Larger motorhomes should scout dispersed sites before committing, while smaller RVs generally have an easier time navigating the area. Seasonal fire restrictions may be in effect as well.
Is This BLM Area Good for Your RV?
• Camper Vans: Compact size makes exploring gravel roads and dispersed campsites much less stressful. • Travel Trailers: Smaller trailers tow comfortably and fit nicely into most camping areas. • Fifth Wheels: RV travelers will have an easier stay if they stick to the developed recreation sites. • Class A Motorhomes: Smaller models fit best, while larger coaches require extra room to maneuver. • Class B Motorhomes: Easy handling makes exploring both campgrounds and backroads much more enjoyable. • Class C Motorhomes: Mid-size models offer plenty of comfort without sacrificing maneuverability on gravel roads.
Free Camping 
Bureau of Land Management free camping is available on the east side of the reservoir. The sites are dispersed and don't offer any facilities. There are also semi-primitive sites available on the west side of the reservoir. All free BLM RV camping options are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
RV Rentals Near Otter Creek Plan your next adventure
Planning your Otter Creek BLM trip
Most of the activities at Otter Creek center around the water, so don’t forget to bring swimming suits, life vests, and plenty of sunscreen if you’re planning to spend time on the water.
There’s only spotty coverage for cellphones at the site, so it’s a good idea to download, print, or buy a paper map of the local area before you visit in case your navigation app is tied to cellphone tower access.
Part of the beauty of Otter Creek is its peaceful remoteness. This also means there are no services nearby, so campers will want to stock up on fuel and provisions before an extended stay.
Otter Creek’s elevation is more than a mile above sea level. Be sure to pace yourself during strenuous activity if you haven’t acclimated to the altitude yet.
Otter Creek is open year-round, but winters in central Utah can often include cold weather and snowfall, so be sure to pack appropriate clothing and snow-clearing tools like spades or ice scrapers in case there’s a storm during your visit.
Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
What RV Travelers Should Know Before Arriving
Always stock your RV with plenty of water, groceries, and fuel before heading to Otter Creek. There is no potable water, hookups, or dump station within the BLM recreation sites, so plan to arrive fully supplied. The nearest RV dump station is located at Otter Creek State Park on the south end of the reservoir, while the closest full-service grocery stores, fuel stations, and propane are available in Richfield, about 45–50 minutes away. Cell service is spotty throughout the area, especially in dispersed camping locations, so download maps and any important travel information before arriving. Trash service is limited, particularly in dispersed camping areas, so be prepared to pack out everything you bring in and follow Leave No Trace principles. If you're using a generator, operate it courteously and follow any posted quiet hours or BLM regulations to avoid disturbing neighboring campers. Weather can change quickly in this part of Utah, with cool nights, afternoon winds, and occasional summer thunderstorms, so secure outdoor gear before leaving camp. If you plan to explore the Paiute ATV Trail or more remote areas, carry a basic emergency kit, extra drinking water, and a fully charged phone or emergency communication device since help may be some distance away.
Leave No Trace 
In order to ensure an enjoyable stay for your fellow travelers and that camping is still allowed at BLM sites in the future, it’s vital to do your part in cleaning up after your visit. Using the "Leave No Trace" guidelines insures that the land will be preserved for generations to come. There are trash receptacles at the picnic pavilion and other locations around Otter Creek. There’s also an RV dump station at the site for easy disposal of accumulated trash.
Otter Creek Location
From Beaver, Utah, you’ll take I-15 to Exit 95, heading east on Highway 20 toward Panguitch for 20 miles. At the end of Highway 20, take a left onto Highway 89. After 16 miles, take a right onto Highway 62 for 12 miles to UT-22. Your destination will be on the right.
Address: 150 East 90 North, Richfield, UT 84701
Ready to visit Otter Creek? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
Plan Your Day at Otter Creek
• Morning: Waking up early to sip on coffee and watch the sun rise over the reservoir will have you feeling refreshed for a full day of adventure. The morning time is also a great opportunity to fish for trout and spot wildlife along the shoreline. • Afternoon: Use the afternoon time to relax around your RV before you head out on a boating trip. Don't forget to pack a picnic lunch. The kids will love picnicking along the shoreline and looking for ducks and other waterfowl. • Evening: Build a campfire (if fire restrictions allow) and use one of these dinner recipes to feed the crew. Take photos of a colorful sunset and then use the nighttime for storytelling and enjoying the peaceful lakeside atmosphere.
Nearby Attractions
Mystic Hot Springs • Approximately 45–50 minutes from Otter Creek Reservoir • Soak in historic mineral hot spring pools • Relax in unique soaking tubs and vintage bathtubs • Camp overnight with RV hookups available • Attend seasonal live music and special events • Explore colorful mineral terraces on foot • Enjoy a relaxing break after riding the Paiute ATV Trail Big Rock Candy Mountain • About 40–45 minutes from Otter Creek Reservoir • Drive through colorful red, orange, and white rock formations • Walk short trails to unique geologic features • Learn about the area's mining and railroad history • Fish the nearby Sevier River • Watch for bighorn sheep and other wildlife • Stop for memorable photos of the vibrant cliffs Monroe Mountain Scenic Byway • Roughly 35–40 minutes from Otter Creek Reservoir • Enjoy a scenic drive through Fishlake National Forest • Admire panoramic mountain and valley overlooks • Spot mule deer, elk, and wild turkey • Escape the summer heat at higher elevations • Stop at overlooks for incredible landscape photography • Access hiking trails, fishing lakes, and picnic areas along the route
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I camp overnight in an RV at Otter Creek? Yes. Otter Creek offers both developed BLM recreation sites and dispersed camping areas for RV travelers. All campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended during busy spring, summer, and fall weekends when the most desirable campsites tend to fill quickly. Are there any types of hookups? All of the campsites are considered dry camping, meaning there aren't any hookups. Self-contained RVs are the best choice for camping here. Be sure to arrive with full freshwater tanks, charged batteries, and enough supplies for the length of your stay. Where is the closest RV dump station? The nearest RV dump station is located at Otter Creek State Park on the south end of the reservoir, making it a convenient stop before or after your stay. Since there are no dump facilities within the BLM recreation sites, many RV travelers plan to empty their holding tanks before leaving the area. Is it okay to bring my fifth-wheel? Yes. Fifth-wheel trailers are welcome, especially in the developed recreation sites where there is more room to maneuver. Smaller and mid-size models are generally the easiest to accommodate, while larger rigs should use caution on gravel access roads and may want to avoid some dispersed camping locations. Is there enough room for toy haulers? Yes. Otter Creek is a popular destination for ATV riders using the Paiute ATV Trail, so toy haulers are a common sight. Developed campgrounds can accommodate many RVs with attached toy haulers, while dispersed camping offers additional space for larger setups when road conditions are favorable. Is there cell phone service? Cell service is generally spotty throughout the recreation area and becomes even less reliable in dispersed camping areas and along remote sections of the Paiute ATV Trail. Download maps, campground information, and any important travel documents before arriving, and avoid relying on cellular service for navigation or emergency communication.
Rent the Right RV for This Trip
The first thing you'll want to consider when choosing the right RV is how many people you're bringing and how much sleeping space the rig provides. Many models have bunk beds and pull-out sofas that give you an easy way to convert living areas into extra sleeping areas. You'll also want to think about battery capacity and fresh water storage since there won't be any hookups. If you plan to do a lot of relaxing by the RV during the daytime, you might want one that has a pull-out awning. Find the perfect Richfield RV rental for your trip to Otter Creek today.