Backcountry tent camping near Copperton, Utah offers secluded sites at elevations ranging from 7,000 to 10,000 feet throughout the Wasatch Range. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-80°F, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms from July through August. Many camping locations require permits due to watershed protection regulations that limit where campers can pitch tents.
What to do
Paddleboarding on mountain lakes: Silver Lake Backcountry offers excellent paddleboarding opportunities just 40-50 minutes from Provo. "Lots of hikes to do nearby, beautiful views, and place to paddle board, kayak, etc.," notes one camper who visited the area.
Fishing for alpine trout: Lake Blanche Trail - Backcountry Camp provides access to lakes filled with trout. The hike to reach these fishing spots is challenging but rewarding. "Great hike to the lake!" explains one visitor who made the trek.
Trail running on established paths: Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping features numerous trails ideal for runners. "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," reports a regular visitor.
Summit nearby peaks: From Red Pine Lake backcountry sites, experienced hikers can attempt summit trails. "If you make your way through the talus field to the south you can gain the ridge and summit white baldy which gives one of the best views in the entire Wasatch!" shares an experienced camper.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Tent camping at Loop Campground provides good separation between campsites. "The campground itself was lovely. Very peaceful, good distance between sites," explains a visitor who appreciated the layout.
Off-season solitude: For the best tent camping near Copperton, Utah, timing matters for crowd avoidance. At Millcreek Canyon, weekday visitors often find more isolation. "The weekend can get very busy so during the week is the best time to camp," notes one regular visitor.
Alpine wildlife viewing: Many campsites offer opportunities to see deer, moose, and mountain goats. "Everytime we come here we also see moose and deer. Best time is definitely fall," shares an experienced Millcreek Canyon camper.
Mountain views: Silver Lake Backcountry provides exceptional vistas. "To the south you have a fantastic view of the Timpanogos Massif looming over the lake. To the west you'll see Box Elder Peak and to the north is Dry Canyon and the Alpine Ridge," describes one visitor.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access to Silver Lake Backcountry requires appropriate vehicles. "You're definitely going to need 4WD and high clearance because the roads leading up to the campsite are filled with ruts and holes," warns one visitor.
Camping distance regulations: Watershed protection rules dictate specific campsite placement. "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. Camping anywhere along that road will give you gorgeous views, though! Saw lots of people camping super close to the lake and even along the shores, which is not allowed. You need to stay at least 1/2 mile away from the lake to camp," explains a visitor from July.
Limited amenities: Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts has specific seasonal openings. "The drive up is beautiful but there is actually no drive in camping. Camping doesn't open until July 1st so take that into account," advises a recent visitor.
Entrance fees apply: Some canyon areas require payment. "Be careful there is a 5$ per car fee sneaking at the entrance," reports a Millcreek Canyon visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites for amenities: Anderson Park offers family-friendly facilities. "This park allows for camping and accommodates small or large groups. Several fire pits, large covered lighted pavilion with three rows of picnic tables. Large grassy field, two wooded areas, borders a residential neighborhood, flushing toilets," notes a visitor.
Pack for variable conditions: Red Pine Lake camping requires preparation. "The hike to the top is pretty steep so you'll want to pack light. You can check it out on AllTrails to get more info on the hike itself. Once you get up there the lake is absolutely beautiful. Would recommend going in mid summer so as to not need to worry too much about staying warm at night," advises a camper.
Consider water activities: Anderson Park provides options for family water fun. "Loved it, great for Paddleboarding and fishing," shares a visitor who enjoyed the accessible water activities.
Plan for weather changes: Weather at higher elevations can shift quickly. "It stormed pretty hard in the middle of the night, and since the lake is up near the top of the mountain, it got pretty windy. Be prepared for significant foul weather and choose your campsite appropriately," warns a Red Pine Lake visitor.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: When seeking tent camping sites accessible by vehicle near Copperton, Utah, Kimball Campground requires suitable transportation. "The dirt road gets rough and rocky, but is driveable. The campsites are beautiful, and within walking distance to the trailhead to hike the 2.2 mile hike up to Silver Lake," explains a visitor.
Arrive early for site selection: Popular camping areas fill quickly. "Make sure to get here early on summer weekends because this place fills up. If you manage to get a spot in a beautiful area next to a river," advises a Kimball Campground visitor.
Combine tent and vehicle camping options: Skull Valley Road offers both vehicle and tent setups. "Tons of dispersed camping areas along the 196. We stayed about 12 miles off of the I-80, on the east side of the 196. Beautiful views, wide open spaces and super quiet. LOTS of mosquitoes and flies. We brought a 30' RV with a lifted Ram 2500 and had no problem driving over the washouts," shares a camper who visited this dispersed area.
