Eden area dispersed camping options provide visitors alternatives to established campgrounds. Free camping at Middle Fork Conservation Area accommodates tents and RVs in a valley setting with regular ranger patrols. Sites are typically accessible from May through October, with seasonal road conditions affecting access during early spring and late fall. Temperature variations between daytime highs and nighttime lows can exceed 30 degrees during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Hiking near campgrounds: North Fork County Park provides direct access to waterfall trails within walking distance of most sites. "There's a short waterfall hike, but also a long hike that will take you up to Ben Lomond Peak & cut across to Willard Peak. Go when there's no smoke and you'll have breathtaking views," notes Morgan L. from North Fork County Park.
Mountain biking: Trail networks connect directly to several campgrounds with varying difficulty levels. "Excellent mountain bike trails also. Can't wait to go back and ride more of them," says Rich J. about his experience at North Fork County Park.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple access points along the Weber River and nearby reservoirs provide fishing within minutes of campsites. "A very clean and very convenient campground. Tons of trails nearby and being on the reservoir is great for hot days. Fishing was a blast! Will definitely be back," shares Tyler G. about his experience at Anderson Cove.
Water recreation: Paddleboarding and kayaking options exist at nearby reservoirs with rental facilities available seasonally. "The beach is so large and it's easy to camp out. The sand is soft and fun for the kids to build sand castles. We also enjoyed the small waves while on the beach," reports Whitney K. about Anderson Cove's waterfront access.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer spacing between neighbors with natural vegetation buffers. "This place is favorite spot to camp if I'm staying local. There are so many spots, and they are all very private. The Camp hosts are great!" says Debbie P. about North Fork County Park.
Group camping options: Several parks feature connected sites ideal for family gatherings. "We've camped all over in North Fork sites! Our family has our annual family reunion in Mustang Flats every summer, CW8 & CW9 are great for 5 families because they're connected by a little road," explains Fale L.
Campground maintenance: Regular upkeep and responsive camp hosts earn positive reviews. "Facilities were clean and staff was great," reports David H. about his family reunion at Anderson Cove.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Dedicated play areas and water features appeal to families with children. "We took our toddler and infant here and had a blast. They found joy in simply throwing pebbles in the creek and making mud," shares Morgan L. about North Fork County Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many popular sites fill immediately when reservation windows open. "You need to reserve sites here well in advance as it fills up for the entire Summer as soon as the reservation window opens," advises Barb D. about Anderson Cove.
Road noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds more than others. "The campground is literally right off the NB/SB freeway. The sites are pretty nice and many are very close to the lake," notes Derek E. about Cottonwood Campground.
Weather preparedness: Mountain locations experience rapid temperature changes requiring appropriate gear. "Temperature variations between day and night can be significant," confirms the camp host at Middle Fork Conservation Area.
Seasonal bug issues: Insects can be problematic at certain times, particularly near water. "Stayed 2 nights in a no hookup trailer site. Really loved the grass and open area for dogs. The beach was really nice. Lots of bug bites so pack spray," advises Ben H. about Cottonwood Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Creek access for kids: Sites adjacent to shallow water provide natural play areas. "We got lucky and lined up the three spots in a row right by the creek (last three before the trail up to the falls). Was a great time with good people," shares David H. from his stay at North Fork County Park.
Dog-friendly beaches: Dedicated pet areas allow water access while maintaining separate human swim zones. "We loved that we could bring the jet skis right over to the beach at the campground and also that they have a dog beach," explains Barb D.
Multiple terrain options: Families can choose between creek-front, meadow, or shaded sites based on preferences. "There's a tiny-creek front, meadow, shaded and unshaded, and a specific area for if you bring horses. You choose what you want," suggests Morgan L.
Playground accessibility: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play structures within walking distance of campsites. "There's a nature trail through the grounds, a nice playground, and a 5 min walk to the beach," reports Rara B. about Cottonwood Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites with water, electric and sewer connections are limited to specific campgrounds. "The utilities were in the perfect position for an RV towing a car. The front desk was super friendly and gives popcorn every day," reports Sandra V. about her stay at Century RV Park.
Site length variations: Many Eden area campgrounds accommodate larger rigs despite mountain terrain. "Our site was brand new with pull through that would easily accommodate a larger rig. Had a nice pavilion type cover over the picnic table, fire ring, and restrooms and showers were new in the section we were staying in," notes Rod D.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal with limited facilities available. "No frills (they do have a pool) RV Park right next to the I-15 freeway in Ogden. Great desk staff. Good prices. Great option if you just need an overnight," advises David B. about Century RV Park.
Winter accessibility: Year-round camping options exist for RVers seeking off-season visits. "The place was nice and new. There is a dog park area and access to a trail which runs along the river," shares Brian about Riverside RV Resort.
