B
Betty G.
Traveler
TravelerDiamond Fork
Clean and quiet
Got a first come first serve sight late in the day. 6:00pm many sights available. The vault toilets are clean and well taken care of. Site 11 nice and shady. Close to the creek.
Camping near American Fork, UT
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
American Fork sits at the mouth of American Fork Canyon in Utah County with the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest beginning less than a mile from the edge of town. Developed campgrounds in the canyon include sites near the Timpanogos Cave National Monument trailhead, with a mix of Forest Service sites that have vault toilets and water spigots at most, running from May through October.
Sites on the canyon floor work for tent setups and smaller RVs. Trailers above 20 feet have limited maneuvering room on some of the tighter switchbacks further up the road. Reservations through recreation.gov are worth making 2-4 months out for summer weekends, as sites close to the cave trailhead fill consistently. Higher-elevation sites above 6,000 feet drop to near-freezing at night even in July, so warm layers matter regardless of the daytime forecast.
American Fork's dispersed camping options cover the free, no-reservation sites on forest land further up the canyon. For developed tent-specific sites in a similar elevation range, Provo's tent campgrounds are to the south with more options across multiple canyon corridors. Gets busy on summer weekends, so plan accordingly.
Best Campgrounds near American Fork (260)
1. Granite Flat (utah)
"High up American Fork Canyon tucked in the forest. The elevation is about 6400 ft- so no spring camping. Book EARLY! This campsite is always full."
"American Fork canyon is my all time favorite canyon. I love the high sides as you drive through. Fall is the best time to go. Beautiful colors."
from $27 - $355 / night
Check Availability2. Nunns Park
"The only bad part about this camp site is all the highway noise. It is close to the Provo river and there is lots of shade so that is nice. Great place to have a camp fire and cook some S'mores. "
"A clean, nice, convenient getaway just under 15 minutes outside the city. This served as a great stop for our road trip where we were able to camp 10-steps away from the river, and it was ."
3. Lakeside RV Campground
"Lakeside was our home for 3 nights while we were in town for Provo’s annual Colonial Festival."
"You're super close to amenities and anything you could want to see in town, as well as Utah Lake."
from $31 - $48 / night
Check Availability4. Little Mill
"It has an interesting layout, where it is long and narrow along the American Fork river and SR92. The flow of the campground makes it nice for larger setups (though not huge)."
"Just returned from an overnight stay at Little Mill with amazing American Fork Creek right beside my sites The campground is clean, no water, trash or electric and vault toilets."
from $27 - $227 / night
Check Availability5. Willow Park Campground
"This campground was nestled in the middle of Lehi Utah and it was a great place for us to swing in for one night."
"We were able to get a spot next to the Jordan River under a beautiful tree. We brought our 16ft camper and didn’t need to back it in or anything."
from $25 - $175 / night
Check Availability6. Miner's Canyon Dispersed
"Very easy access public land right on Utah Lake. Packed gravel and dirt road going in is lumpy from use but smooths out a bit farther in. Side roads to sites are anyones guess."
"Directions brought us right to the location. Road was rough into the sites and were hard to determine specific sites. Ended up pulling into edge of field. Definitely a good quiet night's sleep"
7. Utah Lake State Park Campground
"Gorgeous view across the lake. Quiet. Electricity worked well. Extremely clean. Camp hosts were nowhere to be found and another rig had claimed the end lake-adjacent site I paid for."
"This my 3 stay here at Utah Lake state park. 2x in July and now in September. I’m a single female traveler."
from $50 - $100 / night
Check Availability8. Timpooneke
"I love how it is near a river. You can hear it at night. It's so nice to get to a cool area out of the hot valley and into the cool scenic back country of Utah county."
"While there are many campgrounds in Utah that rival it, this one is special because it's such a short drive after work."
from $27 - $204 / night
Check Availability9. Kyhv Peak Dispersed
"This site is deep past the meadows near square peak. You continue to follow the dirt road in and on your left is a small depression in the land with a fire pit and ample space for tents or hammocks."
"Found a beautiful spot tucked away in the trees with a great view of the Timps. Continue exploring along the road for amazing panoramic views."
10. Mt. Timpanogos
"This area, really all of American Fork Canyon is among the prettiest places in Utah Valley. Go! Camp! Hike Timp!"
"This campground is within 40 minutes of town, but feels like you are far away from your worries. There is a stream that runs thru it and a lot of trees that provide plenty of shade."
from $27 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 13 min from Provo, UT
- 25 min from Salt Lake City, UT
- 53 min from Ogden, UT
- 1 hr 36 min from Logan, UT
Recent Camping Photos near American Fork, UT
322 Photos of 260 American Fork Campgrounds
Michelle B.
Anderson Park
Cody S.
Willow Park Campground
The Dyrt
Channel Manager Sample
Lilliana J.
Sawmill Picnic
Stacy R.
Little Mill
Alice S.
Timpooneke
Ash S.
Salamander Flat
Christian R.
Nunns Park
Elijah C.
Mount Timpanogos Campground
Steven M.
Lakeside RV Campground
Kaelin P.
Mt. Timpanogos
Heather K.
Granite Flat (utah)
Recent Reviews near American Fork, UT
1390 Reviews of 260 American Fork Campgrounds
- jjeanne A.
GuideCherry Hill Campground
More than just a campground
I didn't realize that this is also a family fun park when I reserved the site. It is all an extra fee, but you will get a discount if you're camping. 50 amp Sites are asphalt and the rest are dirt and grass. Sites are a little tight but they did try to leave spaces between if possible.
- RRenee C.
ScoutSun Outdoors North Salt Lake
Friendly, good for a night
This is a good stop over place. It has a pool, store and some outside games. No shade at all and no space between sites but the staff is excellent
- Jeff R.Guide
Miner's Canyon Dispersed
Good spot
Lots of spots for any size rigs, closer to the water the bugs can be crazy, lots of trash left around, we were here 10 months ago same trash still here. Be wonderfully if it was cleaned up.
s M.Scoutunknown
Crickets
So far very pleasant. Right in the road but you can park and walk in to at least one campsite. There are dirt bikers coming down the trail. I didn't walk far beyond the one site with campfire spit and stones. A little trash has been left , but if you want ease of access and ability to walk back to camp, plus a place ten miles or so from supplies in Orem, this is very nice. Despite traffic and early morning athletes I did sleep well. And it's easier access than the unpaved Widow's peak dispersed - still paved roads here.
do K.ScoutTrial Lake Campground
The fishing was so peaceful and plentiful
The fishing was amazing and the lake was so peaceful.
However the blonde camp host was less then friendly and on a major power trip trying to make up her own rules.
The bathrooms weren’t maintained. They stunk like ammonia so bad you could barely breathe and the garbage dumpsters were full when we arrived and weren’t emptied the entire 7 days we were there. You also still have no access to water.
A word to the wise if you are wanting a peaceful experience don’t book sites 17 or 18. The fire pit for 17 is right in the middle of the 2 sites and the fire pit for 18 is up a hill. You are literally on top of your neighbors. I had to stand in site 17 to back my trailer into site 18 it’s ridiculous.
- TTory H.Traveler
Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
One of the best dispearsed camp spots in utah
came in pretty late so had to look around in the morning, but i drove on the trail for about 20 minuites and i came across 3 sites, im sure you can find more as you go up but i didnt check. the best one in my opinion is the second one that overlooks the mountains. the only cons i have to this place is there were lots of wasps, definitely come later in the summer if you have a problem with bugs. The road up was not bad at all, it was paved up until the last few miles, some parts are bumpy but i think a 2WD could get through the trail with little to no problems. not sure if id recommend bringing a trailer though.
Aimee H.GuideDuchesne Tunnel Creekside Camp
Enjoyable
Was passing through so only stayed for a night. The sites next to the river were gorgeous, but there were only a handful and they were occupied. The sounds from the creek were lovely, but you could equally hear the sounds of the highway. A permit is required to camp, all of the sites down the road are the same though. No cell phone service. Very peaceful though.
Adaire B.TravelerYellow Pine Campground (Ut) — Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest
Beautiful FCFS sites
We stayed here for 3 nights in July 2026. The campground is FCFS. We came up on a Tuesday and all sites were open except one. The sites are small and are not level, so be prepared with levelers of some sort. We were able to park our 24' travel trailer with some adjustments. It worked out perfectly!
Campfires are allowed in the Uintas, as of the date of this review. The camp host has wood for purchase. There is plenty of kindling all around.
There is a stream that runs behind the campground with plenty of hiking, mountain biking, and horse trails near the campground. There are also ATV/UTV trails close by and throughout the Uintas.
It was a wonderful trip!
Guide to American Fork
American Fork Canyon offers camping options at elevations between 6,400 and 7,400 feet, providing cooler temperatures during summer months when valley areas exceed 90°F. Seasonal closures affect accessibility, with most higher-elevation sites restricted to a June-September window. Flash flooding occasionally occurs during summer monsoon season, requiring campers to monitor weather forecasts and avoid setting up in low-lying areas near drainage channels.
What to do
Mountain biking near Timpooneke: The area features multiple mountain biking trails suitable for various skill levels. Located near Timpooneke Campground, riders can access several technical routes. "OHV riders will love the scenery and trails it provides just above the campground spot," notes Shad G.
Paddle sports on Utah Lake: Utah Lake provides calm water recreation opportunities approximately 20 minutes from American Fork. "You can build a fire and get firewood from camp host. There is full hook ups and also spots for a tent," according to Brad B. about Utah Lake State Park Campground.
Cave exploration: Visit Timpanogos Cave National Monument near the Little Mill area. "Close to Timpanogos Cave trailhead," explains Andrea P. about Little Mill Campground. The cave system features unique limestone formations and requires advance tickets during peak season.
What campers like
River camping with water sounds: Sites along American Fork Creek provide natural white noise for sleeping. "We were right next to a beautiful river and it was pretty quiet," writes Kaitlin R. about her experience at Granite Flat Campground.
Mountain views with minimal light pollution: Higher elevation sites offer excellent stargazing opportunities. "Starlink is a little slower, but maybe cos I am roaming. 60 meg down, 7 or 8 meg up. Visible and Verizon pretty good," reports Kevin H. at Miner's Canyon, showing connectivity exists even in more remote locations.
Shaded sites during summer heat: Many campers appreciate tree cover when temperatures rise. "Very large space. We fit a lot people there (only one tent) we were able to wake up and get on the trail and hike up to the glacier and camp," shares Easton S. about Timpooneke Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary: Many established campgrounds fill months in advance during peak season. "Be aware that this campsite reservations for the weekend fill up quick. I checked in late May and every weekend until September was already booked," warns Ash S. about Granite Flat.
Insect challenges: Mosquitoes can be problematic near water sources. "The mosquitoes here are terrible. I came here early on a holiday to get a good spot and was ambushed by swarms of mosquitoes," reports Bren M. at Utah Lake State Park.
Road conditions to dispersed sites: Some camping sites near American Fork, Utah require appropriate vehicles. "Getting here can be challenging, very steep incline, tight corners, and some spots have bumpy dirt roads. Perfect for tent camping and small trailers, spots are not big enough for bigger RVs and trailers," explains Juan G. about Squaw Peak Road Dispersed.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. "Great trails, playground, river access, and lots of room to spread out," mentions Brad B. about Willow Park Campground.
Short hikes for young campers: Family-friendly trails exist within walking distance of many sites. "I took the scouts up to this spot and it is a great place to camp with lots of room. Really nice spots with lots of trees and shade," reports Brad B. about Granite Flat.
Water recreation options: Multiple sites provide access to fishing and non-motorized boating. "Close proximity to the lake and hiking makes it a favorite spot," states Bill S. about Granite Flat, highlighting the diversity of activities available for different age groups.
Tips from RVers
Space considerations: Some camping areas near American Fork have limited turning radius for larger vehicles. "Our 20' trailer does fine. Close in to town, very pretty with Provo river next to it," explains Michael L. about Nunns Park.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites exist but require advance planning. "Full hook-up site was surprisingly spacious with green space in-between and trees for shade. Facilities are clean and comfortable and camp store is well stocked," shares Mark C. about Lakeside RV Campground.
Camp host assistance: Several RV-friendly locations offer on-site support. "The hosts were lovely and helpful," mentions Ash S. about their experience at Granite Flat, providing reassurance for those needing occasional assistance with setup or local information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What campgrounds are available in American Fork Canyon?
What campgrounds are available in American Fork Canyon?
American Fork Canyon offers several established campgrounds for visitors. Granite Flat is one of the oldest in the Uinta Cache National Forest, situated near Tibble Fork Reservoir at approximately 6,400 ft elevation. Little Mill is another popular option that runs parallel to the Alpine Loop road and American Fork Creek, and was recently renovated to become one of the nicest in the area. Other campgrounds in the canyon include Mt. Timpanogos, Salamander Flat, and various dispersed camping areas. The canyon is known for its stunning scenery, high canyon walls, and proximity to recreational activities like hiking, fishing, and canoeing.
Where are the best camping spots in American Fork Canyon?
Where are the best camping spots in American Fork Canyon?
The best camping spots in American Fork Canyon largely depend on what amenities and experiences you're seeking. Mt. Timpanogos campground is considered a must-see spot in one of Utah Valley's prettiest areas, offering excellent access to hiking trails. For those who enjoy water activities, Timpooneke provides a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding wilderness. Granite Flat is highly rated for its beautiful alpine setting near two reservoirs where you can relax during hot summer days. Little Mill is praised for its riverside sites and proximity to Timpanogas Cave trailhead. The entire canyon offers spectacular scenery, especially in fall when the colors are at their peak.
Do I need reservations for camping in American Fork Canyon?
Do I need reservations for camping in American Fork Canyon?
Yes, reservations are highly recommended for most established campgrounds in American Fork Canyon, especially during peak season (late spring through early fall). Granite Flat in particular requires booking well in advance as it's consistently full during the summer months. The campground's elevation of around 6,400 feet means it's typically only open from late spring through early fall. For Little Mill, reservations are also advisable due to its popularity and proximity to attractions like Timpanogas Cave. Both campgrounds can be reserved through recreation.gov. Some dispersed camping areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but they too fill quickly on weekends and holidays.
Are there dispersed camping options in American Fork Canyon?
Are there dispersed camping options in American Fork Canyon?
Salamander Flat offers free dispersed camping near the top of American Fork Canyon. While it provides minimal privacy and trails run through the campsite, it's convenient for those planning early morning hikes or rides. Cascade Springs Dispersed Site is another option in the area. Dispersed camping in American Fork Canyon generally doesn't require reservations but operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Be aware that American Fork Canyon is becoming increasingly crowded, especially during peak seasons. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and check for any fire restrictions before your trip.
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