Tent campsites near Cedar Valley, Utah range from elevation-dependent alpine settings to lower desert terrain with significant temperature variations. Most camping areas require permits and adherence to specific regulations regarding distance from water sources and roads. Primitive camping options in this region typically don't have running water, requiring visitors to bring their own supplies or filter from streams when available.
What to do
Paddle sports at nearby lakes: Silver Lake Backcountry offers multiple water recreation opportunities just 40-50 minutes from Provo. According to one visitor at Silver Lake Backcountry, "Lots of hikes to do nearby, beautiful views, and place to paddle board, kayak, etc." Anderson Park also supports similar activities, with a camper noting it's "great for Paddleboarding and fishing."
Hiking to alpine lakes: For backpackers seeking mountain lakes, the terrain provides challenging but rewarding hikes. At Red Pine Lake, trails lead to multiple scenic bodies of water. One camper explains, "Nearby are the upper and lower red pine lakes in addition to a couple smaller ponds in the red pine drainage." Another camper mentions that "I backpacked to Red Pine Lake and had a great time. The trail up is well kept and the lake itself is stunning."
Off-road vehicle trails: Many camping areas near Cedar Valley feature trails suitable for ATVs and dirt bikes. At Kimball Campground, one visitor observed, "Oh also if you ride dirt bikes/atvs most of the trails are motor friendly and the lake is a great spot for kayaking!!" This provides recreation options beyond hiking for those bringing appropriate vehicles.
What campers like
Solitude during weekdays: Tent campsites near Cedar Valley often become crowded on weekends but offer peaceful experiences midweek. A camper at Red Pine Lake observed, "The weekend can get very busy so during the week is the best time to camp as it's likely you'll be the only overnight camper." This timing consideration helps visitors plan for a more secluded experience.
Mountain wildlife viewing: The region's diverse elevations support various wildlife species regularly spotted by campers. At Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts, one reviewer mentioned, "Everytime we come here we also see moose and deer. Best time is definitely fall." Another camper at Silver Lake Backcountry shared, "The scenery is beautiful and we even saw a herd of deer run by our camp."
Star visibility: The distance from urban areas provides excellent night sky viewing opportunities. A camper at Kimball Campground described the experience: "The views make the drive there worth it, though. The fall colors during the day and the stars during the night were spectacular!" Lower light pollution in these areas creates ideal conditions for stargazing.
What you should know
Campsite accessibility varies seasonally: Road conditions impact vehicle access to many tent sites near Cedar Valley. At Silver Lake Backcountry, one camper warned, "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... Maybe they open the road up at some point during the year, but as of July 2nd, it was gated off." Seasonal closures affect multiple areas.
Distance requirements from water sources: Regulations require camping away from lakes and streams. A reviewer explained, "You need to stay at least 1/2 mile away from the lake to camp," while noting many people camp illegally closer to water. Similar rules exist at Red Pine Lake where camping must be at least 200 feet from water sources.
Vehicle requirements for rough roads: Many tent camping areas require appropriate vehicles to access. One camper advised, "You're definitely going to need 4WD and high clearance because the roads leading up to the campsite are filled with ruts and holes." This applies to multiple dispersed camping areas around Cedar Valley, especially after rain.
Tips for camping with families
Water play opportunities: Several camping areas provide water features that appeal to families with children. A visitor to Loop Campground shared, "The campground itself was lovely. Very peaceful, good distance between sites." Another family at Millcreek Canyon noted, "We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river. Just a fun time."
Gradual trails for younger hikers: Some areas offer less challenging initial hikes appropriate for children. Red Pine Lake has trails that start "off pretty easily, and since it follows the stream coming down, clean drinking water is always at hand." This allows families to adjust hike length based on children's abilities.
Pack-in requirements: Families need to prepare extensively for primitive camping. A camper at Loop Campground warned about supply runs: "I usually expect a decent drive to find what I need, but this involved a very long drive down a rutted gravel road, out of the canyon, and back to Grantsville. I think it was 40 minutes each way." This affects meal planning and equipment considerations.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Few tent camping areas near Cedar Valley accommodate RVs due to rough access roads and site constraints. At Camp Eagle Mountain, a visitor noted it works as "a good base for ATV, bike, and hunting areas. No ATV/bike riding or hunting on the campground - just a good base camp for those types of activities." The camp has areas for both tents and RVs despite primitive conditions.
Dusty conditions affect equipment: The terrain creates maintenance challenges for vehicles and gear. A camper at Kimball Campground observed, "The only complaint is the dirt is very chalky and dusty, and keeping your gear clean is not really an option here." This affects RV systems like air filters and generators when camping in accessible areas.
