Camping around Eden, Utah offers access to elevations ranging from 4,700 to 7,500 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the camping season. Most dispersed camping areas in the national forest require campers to be at least 150 feet from water sources, trails, and developed recreation sites. Summer temperatures at higher elevation sites can drop below 50°F overnight even when valley temperatures remain warm.
What to do
Mountain biking at North Fork: North Fork County Park features an extensive trail network. "Excellent mountain bike trails also. Can't wait to go back and ride more of them," notes one visitor to North Fork County Park.
Hike to waterfalls: Multiple campsites provide access to waterfall trails. "There's a hidden waterfall you can hike too, and a river runs through the park. It's a must!" shares a North Fork County Park camper. The trails range from easy family-friendly paths to challenging routes.
Fishing opportunities: Sites along South Fork Ogden River provide ideal fishing access. "Right by most of the campsites you can fly fish or set off on a tubing adventure down the Ogden River! It is required that you have a life jacket before setting off," explains a visitor to South Fork (UT).
Water recreation at Causey Reservoir: Just minutes from several campgrounds. "Just a short drive to Causey Reservoir to enjoy some kayaking, paddle boarding, relaxing. There are a couple of great places for cliff jumping with varying heights to jump off of," reports a Weber Memorial camper.
What campers like
Proximity to water: Multiple campsites offer direct water access. At Anderson Cove, "Good beach front not a far walk from our campsite. Lots of trees to hang your hammocks up on. If you have some water toys it's awesome because you can anchor them on the shore or the dock."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots. "This place is favorite spot to camp if I'm staying local. There are so many spots, and they are all very private," explains a visitor to North Fork County Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained campgrounds throughout the area. "Clean bathrooms were good enough. The host when he finally came around was very nice," notes a visitor to Magpie Campground.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Campgrounds cater to all ages. At Anderson Cove, "The sites are a little close and it is a very family friendly campground. It is a really fun campground though! We rode bikes and paddle boarded. Gets extremely busy on weekends but nice and quiet on the weekdays."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer. "You need to reserve sites here well in advance as it fills up for the entire Summer as soon as the reservation window opens," warns an Anderson Cove visitor.
Seasonal variations: Most campgrounds operate from May through September. "We drove up Monte Cristo which was still closed for the season but probably would have been more our style," notes a Magpie camper in early season.
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience significant traffic noise. "Campground is literally mere feet from the road. Lots of road noise," reports a Magpie visitor. Sites deeper in canyons tend to be quieter.
Bug protection essential: Insects can be problematic, particularly near water. At Willard Bay State Park, "With citronella candles, bug sprays and bug deterrent bracelets, the mosquitoes and other bugs were relentless."
Tips for camping with families
Group camping options: Several parks accommodate family reunions. "We've camped all over in North Fork sites! Our family has our anual family reunion in Mustang Flats every summer, CW8 & CW9 are great for 5 families because they're connected by a little road," explains a visitor.
Kid-friendly water spots: Shallow creek access at many sites. "This campground has been a friends and family favorite for many years. My husband and I recently took our toddler and infant here and had a blast. They found joy in simply throwing pebbles in the creek and making mud," notes a North Fork County Park visitor.
Weekday visits recommended: Weekends can be crowded during peak season. "Gets extremely busy on weekends but nice and quiet on the weekdays. Checked in on a Wednesday afternoon for FCFS site. Plenty open," advises an Anderson Cove camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites offer chances to spot local fauna. "Walking around at dusk we saw deer and a large barn owl. Sounds of the crickets made for a very magical feel just after sunset," shares a Willard Bay visitor.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Several campgrounds offer complete services. "There are camp-sights on blacktop and on dirt. There is a boat ramp, store, dump station…It's not bad," notes an Anderson Cove visitor.
Site selection strategy: Research specific sites before booking. At Riverside RV Resort, "Sites are asphalt and VERY long & level—with a strip of grass and some rock gravel. The campground was clean and well maintained."
Connection capabilities: Cell service and wifi availability varies. "We had service this last time too in July 2021 for the first time (T-Mobile). Hubby was able to work remotely just fine," reports a North Fork County Park visitor.
Boat access considerations: Several campgrounds accommodate watercraft. At South Fork, "Right by most of the campsites you can fly fish or set off on a tubing adventure down the Ogden River! It is required that you have a life jacket before setting off."
