Tent campsites near Echo, Utah extend beyond the immediate area, with options scattered throughout the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 feet. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with higher elevation sites opening later due to snowpack. Winter storms can arrive unexpectedly even in early fall, particularly at higher elevations.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Port Ramp Marina provides access to Pineview Reservoir where camping can be combined with fishing. "Beautiful lake, nice beaches, but only if you go in the late summer or fall. Spring runoff makes this lake rise significantly," notes one visitor to Port Ramp Marina.
Trail running opportunities: Millcreek Canyon offers extensive trail networks beyond just hiking. "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," writes Sean H. about Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts.
Winter recreation: Some camping areas transform into winter recreation zones when the camping season ends. "This is a fantastic spot to go in the winter. Not only is it more beautiful in the winter, but it gets loads of snow for snow sports, and it is right next to Powder Mountain and Snow Basin," explains a camper about Port Ramp Marina.
What campers like
Fall foliage viewing: Late September brings spectacular color changes to the aspen forests. "We could not have asked for a more perfect spot. The views were immaculate, the sites were very spread out, it was the end of September and all the leaves were changing," writes Colyer D. about Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
Wildlife spotting: The backcountry areas provide opportunities to observe native animals. "Everytime we come here we also see moose and deer. Best time is definitely fall," reports Alan B. about Millcreek Canyon camping.
Alpine lake settings: Higher elevation camping offers pristine lake environments. "I backpacked to Red Pine Lake and had a great time. The trail up is well kept and the lake itself is stunning. Lots of streams everywhere too which I loved," shares Chloe B. about Red Pine Lake.
What you should know
Access restrictions: Many roads to backcountry sites have seasonal closures. "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," warns Ryan G. about Millcreek Canyon.
Fee systems: Some areas charge entrance fees regardless of free camping status. "Be careful there is a 5$ per car fee sneaking at the entrance," notes Conner about Millcreek Canyon.
Fire restriction variations: Regulations differ between camping areas. "Has a fire pit but with fire restrictions we didn't have a fire. The view is fantastic of hills covered with aspen and fir trees," explains Brian C. about Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest Dispersed Camping.
Site availability patterns: Free camping areas fill quickly on weekends. "There are tons of free site all up and down the main road. The only problem is it is busy if you leave on Friday plan to get there by 3 at the latest. Spots fill quick," advises Bryce R. about Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
Tips for camping with families
Short backpacking options: Nearby areas offer beginner-friendly backpacking for families. "Aside from the excessive litter in a few places, This was a great place to give my 5 year old a taste of backpacking," shares Adam Z. about Cook Campsite.
Water play opportunities: Several areas feature streams for children to enjoy. "We love Millcreek Canyon for camping, hiking, or even just going up for dinner at their day use spots. Pet friendly. One of our families favorite canyons. We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river," explains Kelli R.
Dog-friendly locations: Not all camping areas allow pets. "This is one of the only canyons that allows dogs!" notes Sean H. about Millcreek Canyon, making it suitable for families with four-legged members.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility challenges: Some dispersed areas require high-clearance vehicles. "About 1/4 mile down a dirt road from Hwy 39 is a good single boondocking spot with a great view. Not for large RVs. Our 17 ft trailer with 4x4 was tricky to get into the spot because the loop was so small," cautions Brian C. about Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
Road condition warnings: Forest roads can deteriorate quickly after weather events. "Definitely rough reading for a portion of it. Lots of mosquitos. But super pretty and secluded. There were several spots that provide you with your own area and privacy," reports Gabe S. about Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest Dispersed Camping.
High-clearance requirements: Many free sites require vehicles capable of handling rough terrain. "The road gets pretty rough/there's a decent sized dip after the first few sites, which we were able to make with a 4WD high clearance car, with a small trailer. But I wouldn't have attempted it in my sedan," advises Heather P. about forest dispersed camping areas.
