Camping opportunities near Aspen Grove, Utah range across several elevation zones from 6,400 to 7,400 feet. The area receives significant snowfall in winter months, limiting most campgrounds to late spring through early fall operation. Summer temperatures typically range 10-15 degrees cooler than valley locations, with nighttime temperatures dropping into the 40s even during July and August.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: Silver Lake is accessible via a 2.2-mile trail that provides stunning mountain views. "We hiked 1,000 vertical feet to Silver Lake. It was so beautiful. We spent our afternoons paddleboarding on Silver Lake Reservoir," shares Michelle B. from Silver Lake Backcountry.
Fishing at local reservoirs: Multiple small lakes near Timpanogos offer fishing opportunities without motorized traffic. "Great small reservoirs nearby for fishing, or canoeing - no motor sports allowed," notes Andrea P. about Granite Flat Campground.
Mountain biking: The Alpine Loop provides numerous trails of varying difficulty levels. "Near hiking trails and reservoirs (no motor sports). Equestrian sites can be used by people without horses too," explains Andrea P. from Timpooneke Campground.
Fall color viewing: Visit in September for spectacular foliage displays. "Nice campground in Utah County. Not far from town and any services that could be needed. Lots of hiking available, although a bit rocky and steep for my old knees," reports Connie C. about Whiting Campground.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The elevation provides relief during summer heat. "High elevation (7400ft) campground up the popular Alpine Loop. Book EARLY - it's very popular," advises Andrea P. regarding Timpooneke Campground.
Access to water recreation: Several campgrounds provide easy access to non-motorized water activities. "The water was cool and there were tons of people there with paddle boards, canoos, tents, and dogs," explains Ash S. at Granite Flat Campground.
Proximity to urban amenities: Many sites balance wilderness with nearby services. "An inexpensive stay in town near great places like Silicon Slopes, Thanksgiving Point, Utah Lake, Traverse Mountain and centered between Salt Lake and Provo. This is a nice spot along the Jordan River Parkway," says Jeremy H. about Willow Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse animal populations. "We really enjoyed the campground. Sites are spread out. Lots of trees. Toilets were very clean. Particularly recommend site 16. Perfect view of Mt Timpanogos," shares Jeff H. from Mount Timpanogos Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds in this area fill quickly 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 Campground.
Vehicle access limitations: Some backcountry areas require appropriate vehicles. "You're definitely going to need 4WD and high clearance because the roads leading up to the campsite are filled with ruts and holes. The views make the drive there worth it, though," advises Ethan H. regarding Silver Lake Backcountry.
Camping restrictions: Regulations exist regarding campsite placement near water bodies. "You can't drive to the coordinates, you have to park at the uppermost parking lot for Silver Flat and hike up to a camping spot. Camping anywhere along that road will give you gorgeous views, though! Saw lots of people camping super close to the lake and even along the shores, which is not allowed. You need to stay at least 1/2 mile away from the lake to camp."
Weather variability: The mountain location means rapid weather changes. "It can get cold at night - high elevation. Not really a bad site in the campground. However it fills up fast and is about impossible to get a site on the weekend without a reservation," explains Angee D. from Timpooneke Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Concrete camping pads: Sites with improved surfaces help with tent setup. "Campsites are concrete with tables and firepits, very clean. Pit toilets are well maintained," notes Connie C. about Whiting Campground.
Equestrian-friendly sites: Horse campgrounds near Aspen Grove, Utah accommodate families with or without horses. "Near hiking trails and reservoirs (no motor sports). Equestrian sites can be used by people without horses too," mentions Andrea P. from Timpooneke Campground.
Recreation variety: Multiple activity options keep children engaged. "I took the scouts up to this spot and it is a great place to camp with lots of room. There is a huge spot of grass that you can play sports or baseball on. Can't remember the site we had but there was a huge rock that was fun for the scouts to climb on," shares Brad B. about Granite Flat Campground.
Stream access: Many sites feature running water for play. "We spent a night at campsite #4 and it was awesome. Lots of privacy and space and the stream is flowing heavily," reports Elijah C. about Mount Timpanogos Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most mountain campgrounds have size restrictions. "Sites are small and primarily tent sites. There are a couple sites which would accommodate a small 16 ft trailer. We had to unhook and park diagonal to fit small trailer and short truck," explains Daniel L. about Mount Timpanogos Campground.
Extended stay options: Some locations work better for longer visits. "An inexpensive stay in town near great places like Silicon Slopes, Thanksgiving Point, Utah Lake, Traverse Mountain and centered between Salt Lake and Provo," recommends Jeremy H. from Willow Park Campground.
Night temperatures: RV campers should prepare for significant temperature drops. "Very quiet, sites are pretty level. Currently the vault toilets are closed but they have portable toilets available that appear to be cleaned every 3 days. Host Sara is very nice. Cell service Verizon and att is decent," notes Adam B. at Mount Timpanogos Campground.
