Camping options near Fairview, Utah range from 5,000 to 9,000 feet in elevation, offering diverse terrain from pine forests to reservoir shorelines. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F during the day, dropping to 40-50°F at night, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. The camping season generally runs May through October, with some campgrounds closing earlier depending on snowfall.
What to do
Fishing at local reservoirs: Joe's Valley Reservoir provides excellent fishing opportunities with Brook Trout and Rainbow Trout populations. "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," notes one visitor to Payson Lakes.
Hiking nearby trails: The area offers trails for all skill levels, from family-friendly paths to challenging mountain routes. "There is a really nice river walk trail that is fun for kids and adults and the fishing is really good in the river that is close by," according to a camper at Diamond Fork.
OHV and ATV trails: The region features extensive off-highway vehicle routes. "The ATV trails are endless and right out the driveway is access to Skyline Drive AKA God's Country," explains a visitor to Orange Olsen cabins.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites. "We stayed in site 26. There were trees on both sides of the campsite and there is ample spacing between sites," reports a camper at Joes Valley Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: Dark skies make this area perfect for astronomy. "The sky was so dark you could see thousands of stars," notes a visitor to Painted Rocks Campground at Yuba State Park.
Wildlife sightings: Campers regularly spot local fauna. "We did get a visit from the locals. A herd of cattle came through for dinner. They were escorted away from the campground by the host," recalls a camper at Diamond Fork.
What you should know
Pack-out trash policies: Some campgrounds have no waste facilities. "There are no trash bins onsite, so what you bring in, you have to pack out," cautions a visitor to Joes Valley Campground.
Seasonal water availability: Water systems may be shut off early or late in the season. "The water was not working at the camp the weekend we were there but we received an email from Recreation.gov the day we were supposed to arrive notifying us that it was off due to an issue."
Campground accessibility: Road conditions vary significantly. "Several cars got stuck trying to get into the campground while I was there. High clearance with all wheel or 4-wheel drive recommended until the snow melts," advises a camper at Diamond Fork.
Tips for camping with families
Look for educational trails: Some campgrounds offer learning opportunities. "There is a well maintained nature trail that passes through the campground. There are educational kiosks along the trail," mentions a visitor to Diamond Fork.
Check fishing regulations: Fishing spots are plentiful but have different rules. "Fishing for brown trout, and cutthroat trout in diamond fork river or the fifth water river can be amazing and you don't see a lot of anglers," notes a Diamond Fork camper.
Consider equestrian sites: Even non-horse campers can book these spaces. "We booked equestrian sites up at the top - highest elevation. Good views, pavilions, fire pits and pit toilets. Don't have to have horses to book equestrian and they seem to be more available," suggests a visitor to Uinta National Forest Blackhawk Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: Some campgrounds accommodate large vehicles better than others. "We have a 42 ft motorhome and a separate pickup with a 6x12 trailer and we fit both in a pull through site and it looked like there was another 40 feet available," reports a camper at Painted Rocks Campground.
Glamping alternatives: For those seeking luxury camping near Fairview, Utah, various sites offer cabin accommodations. "The Dwelling is large enough to hold a really big family or two couples with small children. The cabin is pretty small but large enough for a family of four. Both have showers, toilet, with running water," explains a visitor to Orange Olsen.
Campsite sizing awareness: Many areas have specific site dimensions. "Their normal campsites are really small. We'd actually accidentally set up residence in a double spot without knowing it. So that was unexpected, given the spots are kind of pricey already (normally it's $23/night, but the doubles were $46/night)."