Camping areas around Cedar Hills, Utah generally sit between 6,400-7,400 feet in elevation, creating significant temperature variations between day and night even in summer months. Most campgrounds in this region maintain operating seasons from late May through mid-October, with some closing earlier in September due to high elevation conditions. Water accessibility varies significantly between locations, with some campsites providing direct creek access while others require visitors to bring their own water supplies.
What to do
Trail access for hikers: Granite Flat provides convenient access to numerous hiking trails and serves as a gateway to explore the surrounding mountains. "I loves being so close and having access to so many beautiful hikes and Rick climbing. We were right next to a beautiful river and it was pretty quiet," notes Kaitlin R. The campground sits at approximately 6,400 feet elevation.
Reservoir recreation: Mt. Timpanogos camping area offers multiple water recreation options within short driving distance. "Behind Mount Timp along the 92 passed Sundance and Aspen Grove is a beautiful area full aspen and fir. Plenty of room for dispersed camping," reports Helen A. About 10-15 minutes from most campsites, visitors can access reservoirs for various activities.
Off-road adventures: Multiple areas near Cedar Hills support ATV and four-wheeler activities, particularly in the higher elevation zones. "This location is great since it is not very far from the city and you can find different things to enjoy. Including fishing, off roading (ATV, 4 wheelers), hiking, kayaking," explains Lea S. Most off-road trails require day use fees or recreation passes.
What campers like
Morning riverside serenity: Little Mill campers consistently praise the stream-side sites for their peaceful morning atmosphere. "We LOVED Little Mill! It has the smell of pine trees, a babbling brook, and it is just down the road from Timpanogos Cave National Monument. What more could a camper want?" shares Stacy R. Riverside sites typically fill first through the reservation system.
Early access to hiking: Timpooneke serves as an ideal base camp for those planning to summit Mount Timpanogos. "It's a nice site right at the base of the timpooneke trail that leads to summit of my timp. Not free, but a great way to be there for a head start on the sunrise hike," explains Trip A. The campground sits at approximately 7,400 feet elevation.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers throughout American Fork Canyon regularly report seeing various wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk. "The campground wa clean and well taken care of! I have almost always seen moose and deer in the camp ground and the kids love to catch fish in the stream," mentions one reviewer. Wildlife sightings occur most frequently at higher elevation campgrounds.
What you should know
Reservation essentials: Nunns Park typifies the reservation challenges for camping near Cedar Hills. "This is one of the closest campgrounds to Provo. It is quick and easy for the kind of trip to just get away but it won't feel like you are backwoods because of the smallness of the park and closeness to a very busy highway," cautions Kyler N. Most campgrounds require reservations 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends.
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds in the area experience significant noise from nearby roads and highways. "One downside it it is close to a bike/running path so if you want to sleep in it might not happen," notes Jonathan Y. about Nunns Park. Campsites deeper within the canyon or at higher elevations generally offer quieter conditions.
Bug management: Mosquitoes and other insects can be problematic at many sites, particularly those near water. "The mosquitoes here are terrible. I came here early on a holiday to get a good spot and was ambushed by swarms of mosquitoes," warns one camper. Bug activity peaks during June and July, especially near dusk.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible forest camping: Spruces provides excellent options for families wanting forest immersion with amenities. "I love that you can go from the busy city to this amazing site in about 30 minutes. I have almost always seen moose and deer in the camp ground and the kids love to catch fish in the stream," shares Craig E. Sites with water access tend to be most popular with families.
Playground availability: Several campgrounds near Cedar Hills feature dedicated play areas for children. "This has been a great experience so far been here twice this year. I really enjoy this camping ground, clean very friendly staff and running water bathrooms," notes Cody S. at Willow Park Campground. Playground facilities are typically open from dawn until dusk.
Proximity to attractions: Many campers with children appreciate the quick access to kid-friendly activities nearby. "Great relaxing family time, fishing on river close, close to tribble fork and silver lakes," mentions Monica B. about Little Mill. Most family-friendly attractions like Timpanogos Cave require advance reservations during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Lakeside RV Campground offers dedicated RV spaces with various amenities. "We enjoyed a one night stay. Pull through sites with grass between. Pool was very nice. Cute little store," reports Denise P. Most RV sites in the area have 30-amp service, with limited 50-amp availability.
Level site availability: RVers consistently note the importance of checking site conditions before booking. "The RV sites are pretty close together, but there are spaces with shade trees. We went in August 2020 and there were so many bugs," shares Steven M. Reservation systems rarely indicate site leveling information, so calling ahead is recommended.
Off-season advantages: Several campgrounds near Cedar Hills operate year-round, offering unique benefits for RVers during shoulder seasons. "I was an off season guest at this RV park in February. I was very impressed by the friendliness of the staff, the cleanliness of the park including the restroom and campsites," notes Christine. Most off-season visitors report substantially lower occupancy rates and easier reservation availability.
