FLAMING GORGE / MANILA KOA JOURNEY

The Basics

ADDRESS: 320 West Highway 43, Manila, UT

LOCATION: 47 miles south of Rock Springs / I-80, on the west side of the highway

LAST VISIT: 2024

Everything worked as expected. The sites were pretty tight, but the campground was immaculate.

The gentleman who checked us in and led us to our site asked a few questions about what we'd like to see and do in the area, and then he gave us a list of recommendations. We visited every one of the locations he suggested, and we'd give him a 15 out of 10 score for his recommendations. Every one of the places he recommended was spectacular and free of crowds.

Our Opinion

We would stay there again, as long as we were planning on spending most of our time out exploring. I think I'd feel a bit claustrophobic if I spent too much time at the campsite.

Things to See and Do

Sheep Creek Geological Loop
If you are only going to see one thing in the area, make it this one!
The variety of colors in the rock layers is amazing, especially at sunset.

Dowd Mountain Overlook
The overlook was great; we were the only ones there!
The road to get there is pretty rough, but I'm not sure if a high clearance vehicle is required.

Flaming Gorge Dam
The dam was interesting. There are a lot of turkey vultures nearby, and a really nice hiking trail that starts below the dam and follows the river.

Red Canyon Overlook
This was an enjoyable place to view the reservoir and watch boats. There was a nice picnic area by a small lake on the road to the overlook.

Ute Mountain Fire Lookout
The fall colors were so beautiful from this area, that it would be worth it to make an entire trip to the Flaming Gorge area just for this one stop!
Unfortunately, we were there after Labor Day, so we did not get to see the view from the fire lookout.
I think you would want a high clearance vehicle to get there. The road is pretty rough.