Tent camping near Bluffdale, Utah ranges in elevation from 4,500 feet in the valley to over 10,000 feet in the nearby Wasatch Mountains. Most backcountry camping areas remain snow-covered until late May, with high alpine sites sometimes inaccessible until July. Summer temperatures at higher elevations can drop below 40°F at night even when valley temperatures exceed 90°F during the day.
What to do
Fishing at alpine lakes: Silver Lake offers excellent trout fishing opportunities. "Lots of hikes to do nearby, beautiful views, and place to paddle board, kayak, etc." mentions a reviewer of Silver Lake Backcountry. Access requires planning as the road conditions vary.
Trail running: Millcreek Canyon trails are popular among runners. A reviewer of Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts notes, "Millcreek Canyon is home to some wonderful trails that can be accessed by foot or bike. Although the canyon offers many hiking trails, the main use of the trails seems to be for trail running."
Alpine hiking: For more challenging terrain, Lake Blanche Trail offers substantial elevation gain. The trail culminates at a scenic alpine lake where tent camping is permitted. A camper simply states it's a "great hike to the lake!" with rewarding views after the effort.
Paddleboarding: Several reservoirs near Bluffdale permit non-motorized watercraft. At Anderson Park, one visitor reported they "Loved it, great for Paddleboarding and fishing," making it a good option for water activities closer to town.
What campers like
Secluded weekday camping: Red Pine Lake receives fewer visitors mid-week. "Wonderful place to backpack up to during the week. Can access 3 different beautiful lakes from this drainage and 2 beautiful peaks!" notes one camper about Red Pine Lake, suggesting timing your visit accordingly.
Multiple lake access: The Red Pine drainage area connects to several alpine lakes. One camper mentioned, "Nearby are the upper and lower red pine lakes in addition to a couple smaller ponds in the red pine drainage." This provides options for day hiking from your base camp.
Wooded sites: For those seeking shade, Kimball Campground offers tree-covered sites. "These campground spots are hidden within trees up the dirt road just past Silver Lake flats on the dirt road," reports a camper at Kimball Campground. The shade provides welcome relief during hot summer days.
Wildlife viewing: The mountains near Bluffdale host diverse wildlife. A reviewer of Millcreek Canyon noted, "Everytime we come here we also see moose and deer." Dawn and dusk typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. One camper at Silver Lake Backcountry warns, "You're definitely going to need 4WD and high clearance because the roads leading up to the campsite are filled with ruts and holes." Heavy rain makes these roads particularly challenging.
Distance restrictions: Regulations specify minimum distances from water sources and roads. At Millcreek Canyon, "You can backpack in and camp anywhere a 1/2 mile from any road like the other nearby canyons." Similar rules apply at most backcountry sites near Bluffdale.
Seasonal limitations: Many sites have short seasons. A reviewer of Millcreek Canyon cautioned, "Camping doesn't open until July 1st so take that into account." Spring runoff can make streams difficult to cross and trails muddy until early summer.
Fees and permits: Entry fees apply at some canyons. "Be careful there is a $5 per car fee sneaking at the entrance," notes a Millcreek Canyon visitor. Always check current permit requirements as they change seasonally.
Tips for camping with families
Base camps for activities: Some sites work well as activity hubs. At Anderson Park, one visitor notes it "accommodates small or large groups. Several fire pits, large covered lighted pavilion with three rows of picnic tables." The facilities make it suitable for families with various needs.
Pet-friendly options: Not all areas allow pets. A reviewer highlights, "Millcreek Canyon is home to some wonderful trails that can be accessed by foot or bike... this is one of the only canyons that allows dogs!" Always check current pet regulations before arrival.
Accessible backcountry: For families with older children, Silver Lake offers accessible backpacking. "Fishing is right up the road too," notes a camper, which can entertain children while adults set up camp.
Toilet availability: Plan for bathroom facilities. Some sites like Anderson Park have "flushing toilets," while most backcountry locations require packing out waste. This consideration becomes particularly important with younger children.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most sites near Bluffdale are tent-focused. At Dutchman Mine Flats, "You cannot car-camp as there is wooden fence blocking off the parking area." RVs are generally restricted to designated campgrounds.
Camp Eagle Mountain alternative: For RVers seeking dispersed options, Camp Eagle Mountain provides more space. A visitor notes it's "a developing camp, so while it's free-range and fairly primitive camping, the current construction is eventually expected to provide potable water, campsites, flushing toilets, and showers."
Narrow access roads: Even at established campgrounds, space constraints exist. At Wasatch National Forest Sulphur Campground, a camper with a "25ft hybrid trailer" observed, "The camp spots are narrow, the road in/out is narrow. Our 25ft trailer seemed to be a max length."
