Elk Ridge offers dispersed camping and established campgrounds throughout Utah County at elevations ranging from 4,500 to 9,000 feet. Summer temperatures in the canyons typically reach 80-90°F during the day and drop to 50-60°F at night. The area's diverse terrain includes mountain lakes, canyon rivers, and desert landscapes within a 30-minute drive of Spanish Fork.
What to do
Fishing at Payson Lakes: Payson Lakes provides excellent fishing opportunities for families. "Great fishery for children and youth, as well as an amazing area for swimming and kayaking. They do not allow motorized boats, so it is safe," reports James B. The lake is stocked regularly and easily accessible from most campsites.
Hiking the Grotto Trail: The Grotto is a popular 2.5-mile roundtrip hike near Diamond Fork with a moderate incline suitable for most skill levels. "Don't miss the sunrise over the tree line on the lake. We brought our dog who herded deer through our campsite twice, the kids loved it. Highly suggest coming here and hike the grotto because it's a short hike and so close to the campground," notes Veronica S.
Mountain biking at Spanish Oaks: Spanish Oaks Campground offers direct access to mountain biking trails suitable for intermediate riders. "Great campground with nice views. Fun mbt trails and easy access to paved Spanish Fork river trail," writes Doug B. The reservoir below provides cooling off opportunities after riding.
What campers like
Affordable lake access: The $23/night fee at Payson Lakes provides access to swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating. "This place is beautiful! It is nice to have a lake to walk to for fishing, playing, or just admiring. Each campsite really only has room for 1 or 2 tents. It does have running water and a hole in the ground bathroom to use," shares Shantelle P.
Covered facilities: Camp Maple Dell offers structured camping with amenities not commonly found at other sites. "Covered pavilion with three picnic tables connected end to end. Ample area for kitchen set up, nice fire pit, water from pump, shower houses, flushing toilets," explains Michelle B., noting the camp can be rented for $150 per night with multiple tents permitted per site.
Morning lake views: Watching sunrise over the water is frequently mentioned in reviews. "This campground is beautiful! The sunrise is spectacular, especially when you wait for it out by the lake! It's a wonderful place and is family friendly!" writes Stephanie R. about Payson Lakes. Similar views can be found at several dog friendly campgrounds near Elk Ridge.
What you should know
Bugs and wildlife management: Insect activity varies by season and location. At Utah Lake State Park, campers warn about significant mosquito populations: "The mosquitoes here are terrible. I came here early on a holiday to get a good spot and was ambushed by swarms of mosquitoes. You can literally watch them raise from the ground ready to attack. Plus, these aren't your typical mosquitoes. They are ginormous."
Site spacing considerations: Campsite proximity varies significantly between locations. "The sites were super close together and there were neighboring dogs barking for most of our stay," reports Paige J. about Payson Lakes, while Tanner S. notes that Maple Lake Campground offers "lots of trees with large sites spaced apart."
Seasonal grazing impacts: Cattle grazing affects certain campgrounds seasonally. "This year the Forest Service decided to have someone let their cow herd loose in the area. We spent the week chasing the cows away, and waking up at 5AM when the cows started mooing," explains Tad W. about Maple Lake Campground, adding that cow activity damaged the lakeshore.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Payson Lakes provides safe recreation options for families with children. "Being that we already live in southern Utah county, this place has become a go to for our family. Only about 45 mins away from Payson. Also the lake isn't too big so if your teen blows across the lake on his kayak or raft he can easily walk it back around the lake," advises James B.
Playgrounds and amenities: Lakeside RV Campground in Provo offers additional facilities for families. "This place is very cute for established camping. It has lots of trees and a nice little walking trail. They are pet friendly. They have men's and women's restrooms with showers. They also have a pool for the warmer months. There are 2 small dog parks one for large and one for small dogs," reports Erin A.
Educational opportunities: Diamond Fork features educational trails for children. "There is a well maintained nature trail that passes through the campground. There are educational kiosks along the trail," explains Carrie C. The trails include painted bear tracks that tell a story throughout the campground loops.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at dispersed areas: Miner's Canyon Dispersed offers free camping with varying site quality. "Very easy access public land right on Utah Lake. Packed gravel and dirt road going in is lumpy from use but smooths out a bit farther in. Side roads to sites are anyones guess. Some are pretty reasonable, others are like mine fields. Suggest you park on the road and walk in," advises Susan C.
Hookup availability: Most RV-friendly dog friendly campgrounds near Elk Ridge offer partial or full hookups. "Paved, clean, close to shopping and gas. Nothing special. Safe," reports Peggy C. about Springville/Provo KOA. Additional vehicle fees often apply, with Payson Lakes charging an extra $8 per vehicle.
Location convenience: Several campgrounds provide strategic stopping points. "Stopped here for the night on our return to SLC. Family staff was pleasant and helpful. Full hook-up site was surprisingly spacious with green space in-between and trees for shade," notes Mark C. about Lakeside RV Campground, adding they "were able to walk to Utah Lake via the state park."
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