Best Tent Camping near Cottonwood Heights, UT
Tent camping opportunities near Cottonwood Heights, Utah range from established campgrounds to backcountry sites, with several notable options in the nearby Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Red Pine Lake offers tent-only backcountry camping at 4.7/5 stars with a moderately difficult 3-4 mile hike in, while Millcreek Canyon provides dispersed tent camping options that require campers to set up at least half a mile from any road. The Silver Lake Backcountry area provides additional tent camping with access to alpine views and fishing.
Most tent sites in the area require campers to be self-sufficient, as amenities are minimal. Many locations lack drinking water, toilets, and trash service, making proper preparation essential. Fire restrictions vary by season and location, with several areas including Red Pine Lake prohibiting fires entirely due to watershed protection regulations. According to a review on The Dyrt, "No fires or pets are allowed given that Little Cottonwood Canyon is considered Watershed. So plan on cooking with a backpacking stove/cooker." High-clearance vehicles may be necessary to access certain tent camping areas, particularly after rain or early in the season when road conditions deteriorate.
Tent campers in the Cottonwood Heights vicinity experience dramatic mountain scenery with opportunities for solitude, especially on weekdays. The tent-only sites at higher elevations provide cooler temperatures during summer months and exceptional stargazing opportunities. A camper wrote that Red Pine Lake "can be fully enjoyed as a backpacking trip. 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." Wildlife sightings are common, with moose and deer frequently observed in Millcreek Canyon. The primitive nature of these tent camping areas means fewer amenities but greater immersion in the natural environment. Most locations feature flat spots for tent placement, though sites are generally unmarked and first-come, first-served.
