Dispersed camping options near Cedar Valley, Utah range from high-elevation forest sites to lakeside campgrounds. The area sits at the western edge of Utah County, with camping elevations varying from 4,500 feet at Utah Lake to over 7,000 feet in nearby canyons. Summer temperatures can exceed 90°F at lower elevations, while canyon campgrounds offer cooler conditions with nighttime temperatures dropping below 50°F even in summer.
What to do
Hiking from campgrounds: Timpooneke Campground provides direct access to Mount Timpanogos trails. "The campground is 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," notes Trip A. The trailhead starts at approximately 7,400 feet elevation.
Fishing near camp: Little Mill Campground offers fishing opportunities along American Fork Creek. "Great relaxing family time, fishing on river close, close to tribble fork and silver lakes," mentions Monica B. The creek is stocked with trout during summer months.
Paragliding views: Flight Park State Recreation Area provides a unique experience watching paragliders. "This place is up pretty high with mine, town, and mountain views. The location is where paragliders take off from which I'd imagine is pretty cool to watch," says Mariah G. The site sits along the mountain ridge at approximately 6,000 feet.
What campers like
Accessibility for quick getaways: Nunns Park appeals to campers seeking convenient locations. "The camp spots here are super nice. The best part is how close it is to Provo. Super convenient," writes Joshua C. The campground is located approximately 15 minutes from town.
River sounds: Campers consistently mention the peaceful sounds at Little Mill. "We loved it. You could hear the river and we had a great time," notes Melody F. Many sites are positioned within 50 feet of the creek.
High elevation escapes: Granite Flat offers cooler temperatures during summer. "Granite Flat is a very pretty - and popular campground. High up American Fork Canyon tucked in the forest. The elevation is about 6400 ft- so no spring camping," explains Andrea P. The higher elevation provides relief from valley heat.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Book EARLY! This campsite is always full," warns Andrea P. about Granite Flat. Plan 2-3 months ahead for summer weekend reservations.
Bug preparedness: Mosquitoes can be problematic at lower elevations. "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. about Utah Lake.
Wind conditions: Settlement Canyon/Legion Park Campground offers protection from wind common at other sites. "The campsites had good space between each other. Each one had a fire pit and picnic table," notes Carlee G. The canyon location blocks strong winds that affect ridge campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water access: Settlement Canyon provides safe water features. "We woke up to see cows in the morning which the kids loved. Had some great areas for hiking and is really close to the reservoir for some awesome fishing," reports Carlee G. The reservoir is approximately 0.5 miles from most campsites.
Play space availability: Granite Flat includes recreational areas. "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," explains Brad B. The open play area measures approximately 100 x 150 feet.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Mt. Timpanogos Campground offers wildlife encounters. "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. Teeming with Wildlife," shares Helen A. Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Settlement Canyon has varied site options. "We did the dry camping and we were in the location all the way to the back. The dry camping spots are very spacious lots of space for the walk around and play and run," advises Warren W. Sites in the back section provide more privacy.
Leveling challenges: Finding level sites can be difficult in some areas. "The one downside was that the tent spot was not flat, and had quite a few large rocks. Otherwise, it was great," notes Justin J. about Granite Flat. Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for most campgrounds in the area.
Generator restrictions: Most campgrounds near Cedar Valley restrict generator use. Little Mill and Timpooneke Campground prohibit generators entirely, while Utah Lake State Park allows generators only during specific daytime hours from 8 AM to 10 PM.
