Tent camping near Millcreek, Utah offers wilderness experiences in the Wasatch-Cache National Forest at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 feet. The area's camping season typically runs from July through October, with restricted access during winter months. Most backcountry camping sites require permits and have strict regulations regarding campsite placement.
What to do
Trail running at Millcreek Canyon: The canyon features multiple well-maintained trails perfect for runners of all abilities. According to Sean H., "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. There is a toll per vehicle to enter the canyon, but this can definitely be worth it because this is one of the only canyons that allows dogs!"
Fishing at Silver Lake Backcountry: The reservoir offers excellent fishing opportunities with relatively easy access. "You do have to drive through a small river and must camp half a mile from the lake. The scenery is beautiful and we even saw a herd of deer run by our camp. Fishing is right up the road too," notes Laynie R.
Paddleboarding on nearby lakes: Many of the alpine lakes permit non-motorized watercraft. Kati C. explains, "There were a lot of off road vehicles and people fishing. More crowded then we were expecting, but the views were amazing! Not a lot of shade, as in bring your own. Perfect place for dogs to play!"
Winter recreation options: Some areas near Millcreek offer winter camping for experienced backcountry users. The canyon roads are partially closed during winter months, requiring snowshoeing or cross-country skiing to access more remote camping locations.
What campers like
Temperature differential: The high elevation camping around Millcreek provides significant relief from summer heat. Campsites at higher elevations can be 15-25°F cooler than Salt Lake City temperatures, making primitive tent camping comfortable even in July and August.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple camping areas offer chances to see native wildlife in their natural habitat. Philip E. describes camping at Split Rock Bay Backcountry Campsites as "Beautiful, with lots of animals" and mentions "Good hiking trails with great views and lots of animals to see."
Accessibility to Salt Lake City: Most backcountry camping sites around Millcreek are within 30-60 minutes of downtown Salt Lake City. Bethany R. notes, "I spent one day exploring salt lake, which is about an hours drive from the campsite. And I spent another day only up near the site, there's a trail head that leads off to about 3 or 4 different trails."
Early season limitations: The camping season often doesn't begin until July. Ryan G. cautions about Millcreek Canyon: "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."
What you should know
Road condition challenges: Many access roads to primitive camping require appropriate vehicles. At Kimball Campground, Emily T. warns, "The dirt road gets rough and rocky, but is driveable. The campsites are beautiful, and within walking distance to the trailhead to hike the 2.2 mile hike up to Silver Lake. Loved camping here, only complaint is the dirt is very chalky and dusty, and keeping your gear clean is not really an option here."
Entrance fees apply: Some canyons charge for entry. Conner notes, "Be careful there is a 5$ per car fee sneaking at the entrance. Pretty good trails on the way up but like in the Title I wasn't able to make it."
Limited camping availability: Weekends fill quickly during peak season. Connor O. advises, "Make sure to get here early on summer weekends because this place fills up. If you manage to get a spot in a beautiful area next to a river."
Watershed protection regulations: Many areas prohibit dogs due to watershed protection rules. One camper mentions, "No fires or pets are allowed given that Little Cottonwood Canyon is considered Watershed. So plan on cooking with a backpacking stove/cooker."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner backpacking options: For families new to backcountry camping, some areas offer relatively easy access. Adam Z. shares about Cook Campsite: "Aside from the excessive litter in a few places, This was a great place to give my 5 year old a taste of backpacking."
Water activities for children: Multiple camping areas feature streams or small lakes perfect for supervised water play. Kelli R. notes, "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. Just a fun time."
Weather preparation: Alpine camping requires extra preparation for families with children. Evenings can drop below 50°F even in summer months, necessitating appropriate clothing and sleeping gear.
Short hike options: Several areas offer camping with minimal hiking requirements, making them suitable for families with young children. Most established backcountry sites require at least 0.5 miles of hiking from parking areas.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most camping near Millcreek is primitive and tent-only. The few RV-accessible sites have significant size restrictions and no hookups. Sharon H. warns about Millcreek Canyon: "Warning - road is closed 3.5 miles into the park before where camping spots were indicated. No notice on when it would reopen. Also to highlight this is WALK IN camping only. No car camping or RVs as it requires you to be 1/2 mile off the road."
Alternative camping parks: Nearby Anderson Park offers more developed options. Michelle B. describes it as "This park allows for camping and accommodates small or large groups. Several fire pits, large covered lighted pavilion with three rows of picnic tables. Large grassy field, two wooded areas, borders a residential neighborhood, flushing toilets. Irrigation ditches run throughout the park with bridges for crossing. Rents for $25."
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. Ethan H. cautions, "You're definitely going to need 4WD and high clearance because the roads leading up to the campsite are filled with ruts and holes. The views make the drive there worth it, though."
Parking limitations: Some areas have extremely limited parking, particularly at higher elevation trailheads. Many parking areas fill by mid-morning on summer weekends, requiring early arrival or weekday visits.
