Dispersed camping near Alta, Utah provides access to high-elevation environments, typically between 7,400-9,400 feet. The surrounding areas feature both developed campgrounds and backcountry sites within the Wasatch National Forest. During peak summer months, temperatures at these elevations average 10-15 degrees cooler than in Salt Lake City, with nighttime temperatures frequently dropping below 50°F even in July.
What to do
Mountain biking on Wasatch Crest Trail: Located near Redman Campground, this trail offers technical riding with significant elevation changes. "This is super close to my favorite mountain bike ride in Northern Utah - The Wasatch Crest Trail. As you can tell in the pictures, this area is very lush and rich with pine trees," notes Brendan A.
Fishing at multiple reservoirs: Several campgrounds provide access to fishing areas with stocked waters. At Silver Lake Backcountry, "Fishing, and light watercraft permissible in Silver Lake Reservoir. Not crowded at all," reports Michelle B.
Hike to Scout Falls: This 2-mile round-trip hike starts directly from Timpooneke Campground. "Scout Falls (while not overly impressive) is about 1 mile into the hike. Make sure you camp in designated spots as fires are prohibited everywhere else," advises John M.
Paddleboarding on alpine lakes: Several small lakes in the area allow non-motorized watercraft. "We were able to paddle board which was a blast! I loves being so close and having access to so many beautiful hikes and Rick climbing," shares Kaitlin R. about her experience at Granite Flat.
What campers like
Year-round accessibility options: While most campgrounds close seasonally, Spruces Campground offers winter camping opportunities. "Wonderful winter wonder land you can snowshoe into in the winter and camp at! You can also stay here during the summer just be prepared to book a couple months in advance!" explains Shilah M.
Close proximity to Salt Lake City: Campgrounds in Big Cottonwood Canyon provide quick wilderness access. "Right up Big Cottonwood Canyon, this campground has the advantage of being up the canyon so you feel far away from the city, but close enough that you could go on a work night and still make it to the office the next day," shares Jenny W. about Spruces Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds report frequent animal sightings. "This campground is quiet and has abundant wildlife. It's better for small campers or tent campers as the driveways were not designed for big rigs," notes a camper at Redman Campground.
Hammocking options: Many sites feature mature trees ideal for hammock camping. "We had a blast at this campsite! There were lots of great trees for hammocking, fire pits, and bathrooms! Overall this place was beautiful and perfect for what we were doing!" explains Michael B. about his stay at Redman Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During peak season, walk-up availability is extremely limited. "After failing to get a walk up at granite flats because everything was reserved, we tried Timpooneke. Online it indicates that they have lots of walk ups, however, driving through we only saw 2 with the W designation and everything else had a reserved sign up," reports Stacy D.
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