Camping spots near Altamont, Utah range from reservoir-adjacent sites to forest campgrounds at elevations between 6,000-8,000 feet. The high desert climate creates significant temperature variations, with nighttime temperatures commonly dropping below 50°F even during summer months. Water levels at Starvation Reservoir fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline camping and boat launch access.
What to do
Family fishing: Mountain View Campground at Fred Hayes State Park offers paved areas perfect for children's activities. According to Erik J., "The family had a blast. The camping area is all paved and the kids loved riding their bikes all day. It's just a short drive down to the water with a beach area."
Lake recreation: Moon Lake Campground provides rental options for water activities. One visitor notes, "Fun campground with plenty of spaces near Moon Lake. There are toilets, drinking water, fire pits, and even a lodge where you can buy supplies or rent a boat for the lake."
Hiking: Uinta Canyon offers multiple trail options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. A camper shares, "Very large campground can accommodate many people. Fishing is close by as well as a short hike to smokey springs. Firepits along with a group fire pit, 2 well maintained bathrooms, picnic tables, and wildlife."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Riverview Campground in Ashley National Forest, separation between campsites allows for quiet despite popularity. One visitor reported, "We showed up Labor Day weekend. Almost every spot along the river was taken, but once you were in your camp you could hardly tell neighbors were around."
Clean facilities: Yellowstone Group Campground maintains well-kept grounds according to visitors. "The campground was very nice and clean. In long weekend season, it was very crowded," notes one camper.
Lake views: Lakeside RV Park offers elevated views of Starvation Reservoir. A visitor shared, "The campsite was a pull through, fairly large with a picnic table and fire ring. There is a nice dog walk/path with a great view of the reservoir at the end of the path."
What you should know
Water temperature: Starvation Reservoir remains cold even in summer. Erik J. mentioned, "The water was freezing though" when describing Mountain View Campground's beach area.
Bugs: Insect activity varies by location and season. At Juniper Point, one camper reported, "We loved jumping in the reservoir and the fishing is great. Downside, lots of bugs… spiders were an issue still plaguing us a week later in all of our gear. The flies are an issue."
Wind conditions: Many campsites around Starvation Reservoir experience significant wind. One visitor at Lakeside RV Park noted, "When we were there it was very windy and cold so our time outside was limited."
Terrain challenges: Not all sites offer level ground for tent camping. A Juniper Point camper stated, "Not a level spot to be found. Good scenery but overall not a great stay."
Tips for camping with families
Store access: Moon Lake offers convenient amenities for families who forget supplies. As one visitor explained, "Moon Lake Campground is a clean and modern campground on the shores of a beautiful high mountain lake. Just feet outside the campground is a private resort with rustic cabins and a lodge. The lodge store provides basic necessities in the event you forgot something, as well as an ice cream bar with sundaes and soda on tap."
Kid-friendly activities: Paved areas at Mountain View Campground provide safe places for children to play. According to a camper, "The family had a blast. The camping area is all paved and the kids loved riding their bikes all day."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Indian Bay Campground offers nature observation possibilities. A visitor mentioned, "Lots of fish in the lake and craw fish. The water is refreshing to swim, water ski, paddle board or any water sport."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Mountain View Campground, back-in sites offer better privacy and views than pull-through options. One RVer advised, "I was glad I had a back-in site around the edge of the loop. I loved the view. The pull through sites in the middle were super close together that left little room for slide outs and entry/exit from the trailers unless you were in the end."
Hookup availability: Sites vary widely in utility access. A visitor at Mountain View noted, "We had water hookups and access to 20/30/50 electricity. No sewer available in the site, but they do have a dump station."
Shade considerations: Tree coverage differs significantly between campgrounds. At Lakeside RV Park, one camper reported, "This park is so amazing. Right next to starvation lake, plenty of mature trees, great view, super nice staffs, right next to Utah 40 but hardly hear any noise."
