Best Tent Camping near Alpine, UT
Tent campsites in the Wasatch Mountains near Alpine, Utah range from established campgrounds to backcountry sites with alpine lake views. Silver Lake Backcountry and Red Pine Lake offer tent-only camping options within Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, with both requiring permits and featuring hike-in access to pristine mountain settings. Kimball Campground provides additional tent sites closer to town with drive-in and walk-in options.
Most tent campgrounds in this area have minimal amenities, requiring campers to be self-sufficient. Sites typically feature fire rings, but many lack potable water, requiring visitors to either bring their own or filter from nearby streams. High-clearance vehicles are often necessary to access more remote tent camping areas, particularly after rain or early in the season when snow may still block roads. A camper noted that "the road was quite rutted and rough and you had to go through a small runoff stream," highlighting the importance of appropriate vehicle selection. Vault toilets are available at some locations like Kimball Campground, but many backcountry tent sites require visitors to dig cat holes and pack out all waste.
The tent camping experience near Alpine offers exceptional alpine views and outdoor recreation opportunities. "An amazing spot to drive to and spend the day or backpack in and spend a night or two," wrote one visitor about Silver Lake Backcountry. Many tent-only sites provide direct access to fishing, with trout visible in the clear mountain lakes. Trails connect many of the primitive tent camping areas, allowing for day hikes or extended backpacking trips. Campers should be prepared for variable mountain weather conditions, as storms can develop quickly, particularly at higher elevations. Most backcountry tent sites require campers to set up at least half a mile from trailheads, providing a more secluded experience away from day-use areas.
