Best Campgrounds near Eureka, UT

Dispersed camping options dominate the landscape around Eureka, Utah, with several free sites on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land throughout the region. Miners Canyon Dispersed, Chimney Rock Dispersed, and Goshen Road Dispersed Camping provide primitive sites with minimal amenities for self-sufficient campers. These areas support both tent and RV camping, though visitors should be prepared for unimproved conditions. More developed options include Vernon Reservoir Campground, located approximately 20 miles west of Eureka, which offers basic amenities such as vault toilets and trash service. Paul Bunyon's Woodpile presents an unusual desert camping destination with picnic tables but limited services.

Most dispersed sites in the Eureka region lack drinking water, toilets, and trash facilities, requiring campers to pack in supplies and pack out waste. Fire regulations vary by location and season, with many areas permitting campfires in established rings when no restrictions are in place. A visitor noted, "The road out is dirt, but maintained. There are plenty of camp sites with pavilions, picnic tables, and fire rings. The sites are mostly exposed and many don't have even ground to park and level a trailer." Cell service is generally available near Eureka but may become spotty in more remote locations. Summer temperatures can reach extreme highs, while winter brings cold temperatures and occasional snow at higher elevations, potentially making some roads impassable.

The desert environment around Eureka creates a distinctive camping experience characterized by juniper trees, open terrain, and notable wildlife activity. Several visitors report coyote sightings and howling at night, adding to the backcountry atmosphere. Noise levels vary significantly between locations, with some sites affected by recreational shooters and off-highway vehicle (OHV) users, particularly on weekends. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "Not very peaceful during the day because it's a popular spot for OHV vehicles." Most primitive sites offer limited privacy and shade, though some locations feature juniper trees that provide modest cover. The area's relatively dark skies allow for excellent stargazing opportunities when weather conditions permit. The dispersed nature of camping in this region appeals to those seeking affordable options and flexibility rather than developed amenities.

Best Camping Sites Near Eureka, Utah (163)

    1. Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    22 Reviews
    Saratoga Springs, UT
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "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."

    "Directions brought us right to the location. Road was rough into the sites and were hard to determine specific sites. Ended up pulling into edge of field. Definitely a good quiet night's sleep"

    2. Paul Bunyon's Woodpile

    3 Reviews
    Eureka, UT
    13 miles
    +1 (435) 743-3100

    3. Miners Canyon BLM

    11 Reviews
    Saratoga Springs, UT
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "Can be a bit windy some days but nice spread out area with beautiful views of mountains and Utah lake."

    "As beautiful as the view was, I felt it was ruined with all of the trash that people have left behind in the dispersed camping area as well as along the lakeshore."

    4. Vernon Reservoir Campground

    4 Reviews
    Vernon, UT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 466-6411

    "Very busy with RVs but there is dispersed camping behind the resivoir. Good views. Good vibes."

    "I like that this locations feels primitive, but isn’t far from civilization. We went in March and it was a little cold, but we setup the trailer and the heater worked great."

    5. Fivemile Pass OHV

    9 Reviews
    Eagle Mountain, UT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "This is our go to campground if we don’t want to drive too far from our house."

    "One can hear the cars from the highway, but they are far enough. When I arrived around 8, there was one Atv crusing for another 15 minutes, but then silence for the whole night. Good spot and free!"

    6. Lakeside RV Campground

    27 Reviews
    Orem, UT
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 373-5267

    $31 - $48 / night

    "Lakeside was our home for 3 nights while we were in town for Provo’s annual Colonial Festival."

    "You're super close to amenities and anything you could want to see in town, as well as Utah Lake."

    8. Payson Lakes

    17 Reviews
    Elk Ridge, UT
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 798-3571

    $28 - $272 / night

    "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 Ut. "

    "There is a lake close by within walking distance with a paved trail all around it. The water was low and pretty gross when we went at the end of the summer. I stayed at B23."

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Recent Reviews near Eureka, UT

791 Reviews of 163 Eureka Campgrounds


  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Springville / Provo KOA Holiday

    KOA

    Well it's your topical RV resort. It doesn't have a fire ring and it's by train tracks and a freeway. Also, your packed in like sardines. However, it will do for overnight. I have to say it is clean and kept up well. But if you're into private camping with space, this isn't for you.

  • Kim G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Fox Den Campground — Deer Creek State Park

    Beautiful uncrowded campground

    We stopped here after leaving Salt Lake City. It is mid October so the campground is mostly empty. We were able to get our pick of sites. Beautiful views of water and the mountains. Super nice bathrooms that look brand new. Not much hiking right here but close enough to the Alpine Loop to Sundance with hiking along the way. Not far from a bike path along the Provo River. Only a few minutes into Midway with many restaurants to choose from.

  • Claire L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Little Mill

    Our favorite place

    Our family adores this location. Great staff, clean toilets, stunning camping areas near the river, some directly on it! Spot 10 was great for our 33ft rig. We will be back Little Mill! Love you

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Springville / Provo KOA Holiday

    Clean and friendly staff.

    Spots are a little tight. Noise level is a 5. Near the hwy but not next to. It’s a good place to stay and the monthly rates are fair.

  • Sary W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Flight Park State Recreation Area

    Good price

    Instructions for the campsite are a bit confusing. Don’t pay for a site until you get here even if you book online. There are limited spots. People camping around are nice and say hello.

    We camped on a Friday night and it was full when we arrived around 6pm but we snagged the last spot available. Otherwise I would have camped down the road in a dirt patch anyway.

  • Mike C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area

    Good overnight spot

    Quiet and easy to get to from road. Got crowded as the evening went on but plenty of room for all

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Squaw Peak Road Dispersed

    A hard way to the Top

    We fought hard to get to the spot. Up to Hood Campground, the road was a normal, winding road. Really great. After that, however, a stretch began that was really only suitable for 4WDs. Rocks, deep ruts, etc. We managed it with the 2WD, but we had to give it our all. There aren't many spots. The spot we found was right on the mountain in the forest, but it wasn't worth the effort. We still enjoyed the night very much. We didn't have an internet connection with T-Online. Apparently, the spot serves the locals as a picnic destination, love nest, or even wedding photo spot until sunset. We had a bit of everything that evening ;)

  • Karen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Antelope Valley RV Park

    Nice with a couple caveats

    This is a large, nicely kept, clean RV park with water, electrical 30 amp and 50 amp and sewer. Showers are available at no cost and laundry is available for $2.50 per wash and $2.50 per dry. The biggest problem is using the laundry. It’s necessary to download an app which is complicated and irritating then you have to load the app with money. I’m pretty tech savvy but this frustrated me. an overnight day is approximately $55 a night and I’ve heard a rumor that there’s no cash or checks allowed. Use of a credit card requires a fee.

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Manti - La Sal KOA

    Perfect Location to jump on the Arapeen trail

    This KOA is daily straight forward. Has everything you will need. Laundry only had on machine working but I was able to get all mine done while we were here. Has a game room with a family room area and a large TV. We were able to ride our side by side from this location right onto the Arapeen trail. The main office will give you a simple map on how to get there and they also sell the trail maps for $10.50. Wanted to use the pool but it was closed for the season.


Guide to Eureka

Camping near Eureka, Utah, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot by the river or a campground with more amenities, there are options to suit your needs.

What to do

  • Fishing and swimming: Many campers enjoy fishing and swimming in nearby lakes. For instance, at Payson Lakes, one reviewer said, "It’s a beautiful spot with lots of hiking and shade," making it a great choice for families looking to cool off.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Diamond Fork. A visitor mentioned, "Close to hiking areas," which is perfect for those who love to hit the trails.
  • Biking: The Provo River Trail is nearby, offering a paved path for cyclists. One camper noted, "Great campground close to town and right off the Provo River trail," highlighting its accessibility for biking enthusiasts.

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and campgrounds. At Ken's Lake Campground, a reviewer said, "Clean bathroom, and plenty of space to set up shop," which is a big plus for many.
  • Scenic views: Many campgrounds boast beautiful landscapes. A visitor at Nunns Park mentioned, "Love the shade and scenic views," making it a favorite for those who enjoy nature.
  • Family-friendly atmosphere: Campgrounds like Lakeside RV Campground are noted for being family-friendly. One reviewer shared, "Seems family friendly," which is reassuring for parents.

What you should know

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby highways or activities. A camper at Nunns Park warned, "Hwy traffic noise is louder near sites 11, 12," so it's good to check site locations if you're sensitive to noise.
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Ken's Lake Campground lacks drinking water and showers, which some campers found inconvenient.
  • Tight camping spots: Many sites can feel cramped. A visitor at Lakeside RV Campground noted, "The entire camp packed in like sardines," so be prepared for close quarters.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose shaded sites: Look for campgrounds with plenty of trees. One camper at Payson Lakes mentioned, "Nice big shade trees," which can help keep kids cool during hot days.
  • Plan for activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep kids entertained. A reviewer at Diamond Fork said, "There are plenty of areas to do dispersed camping," which can be great for family adventures.
  • Bring games and toys: Having outdoor games can make the trip more enjoyable. A camper at Springville / Provo KOA Holiday enjoyed playing games in the recreation hall, saying, "Had a great time playing a shrunken bowling game."

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Lakeside RV Campground mentioned, "Our 30’ rig hardly fit in the spot," so it's wise to confirm dimensions before booking.
  • Be prepared for wind: Some campgrounds can be windy. A reviewer at Ken's Lake Campground noted, "Could definitely feel the winds stronger than other areas," so secure your awnings and gear.
  • Look for amenities: Choose campgrounds with the amenities you need. A camper at Utah Lake State Park Campground appreciated the "electricity worked well," which can be essential for RVers.

Camping near Eureka, Utah, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking comfort. Just remember to check reviews and plan accordingly!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find camping sites near Eureka?

The Eureka area offers diverse camping options. Oasis Campground — Yuba State Park provides a serene lakeside experience with a true 'middle of nowhere' feel and simple campsites. For dispersed camping, Skyline Drive offers multiple pull-in spots near Tucker's ghost town remnants, featuring picturesque creek access and interesting rock formations. Other options include Cottonwood Campground near Nephi (free but basic), Miner's Canyon Dispersed for lakeside camping, and Soldier's Pass for free backcountry camping suitable for off-road enthusiasts.

What amenities are available at campgrounds around Eureka?

Amenities vary widely at Eureka-area campgrounds. Utah Lake State Park Campground offers developed facilities popular with both day users and overnight campers, with good access to fishing. Payson Lakes features swimming and kayaking areas, with restrictions on motorized boats making it family-friendly. For more primitive options, Lower Narrows Campground has impressive overhanging rock features. Dispersed sites like Soldier's Pass offer no amenities and require carrying in all water, while established campgrounds like Granite Flat provide fire pits with grill gates, water spouts, and shaded areas.

What is the best time of year to go camping in Eureka?

Spring and fall offer the most pleasant camping weather around Eureka. Cascade Springs Dispersed Site provides spectacular panoramic views of Mt. Timpanogos that are particularly beautiful during these seasons when temperatures are moderate. Vernon Reservoir Campground is most accessible in late spring through early fall when roads are dry. Summer camping is popular but can get hot, especially at lower elevations like Utah Lake. Many campgrounds in the area begin opening in April as state parks come back online after winter closures, with the season typically running through October depending on elevation and weather conditions.