Tent camping near Fruitland, Utah concentrates in the mountainous terrain of the nearby national forests where the elevation ranges from 7,000 to 10,000 feet. Summer temperatures at these dispersed sites typically drop below 40°F at night even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. The area experiences frequent afternoon thunderstorms from mid-July through August, with lightning strikes common at higher elevations.
What to do
Fishing in mountain lakes: At Pyramid Lake Dispersed Camping, trout fishing draws many campers. "The trout were very active midday into the late afternoon. The only other people that came up were riding UTVs," notes one visitor. Most fishing spots require some hiking from tent sites.
Hiking nearby trails: Tent campers at Dry Canyon can access multiple trails including the Fifth Water trail. "You're a perfect distance from the river so you can listen to it as you fall asleep, but you don't have to worry about floating away," reports a camper who enjoyed the hiking options.
Wildlife observation: Morning and evening animal sightings occur regularly at tent sites. One camper at Hobble Right Fork Dispersed reported, "There's lots of wildlife as well. I personally like the mix of meadows and trees." Moose, elk, and deer frequent water sources near established campsites.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The lack of light pollution makes star-gazing exceptional. A camper at Hobble Right Fork Dispersed noted, "Lower light pollution makes the stars pretty visible and there's lots of wildlife as well." Many tent sites sit in natural clearings with unobstructed sky views.
Water features: Tent sites near streams provide natural white noise and water access. A camper at Dry Canyon shared, "free parking and overnight camping. each site has a table, fire pit, and plenty of flat spots to pitch a tent. from the parking lot you cross a bridge over the stream to the camp sites."
Temperature relief: The mountain elevation provides natural cooling during summer heat. A visitor to Dispersed Camping--Mill Hollow/Utah FR054 observed, "Since we discovered this place back in May, we can't stop coming here! It's the best weekend getaway...I camped here two weekends in a row and planning to go back again today."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many tent camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. At Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest Dispersed Camping, "the road gets pretty rough/there's a decent sized dip after the first few sites, which we were able to make with a 4WD high clearance car, with a small trailer. But I wouldn't have attempted it in my sedan."
Seasonal access: Snow can block roads into June at higher elevations. A camper at Mill Hollow noted, "We were here in late May and there was still snow in places and some roads impassable...but we found a premise spot to watch the sunset and camp with a fire."
Wildlife awareness: Bears and other large animals frequent camping areas. One camper at Mill Hollow shared, "I've heard bears pulsing...didn't see them though. I carry my bear spray at all times and I hope I never have to use it."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose tent sites with natural barriers for safety. At Pyramid Lake, "The hike in is less than a mile and offers incredible views. Makes for a very easy backpacking trip," making it suitable for families with older children who can handle short hikes.
Water recreation: Streams and small lakes offer kid-friendly cooling options. A visitor to Ashley National Forest Riverview Campground shared, "We didn't fish, but saw a couple of fly fishers catch 4 trout right in front of us," highlighting water activities children can enjoy.
Noise considerations: Some sites experience recreational vehicle traffic. A Mill Hollow camper noted, "There are OHV's and dirt bikes during the day, but kind of cool to watch!" This can either entertain or disturb children depending on preferences.
Tips from RVers
Road navigation: RV access to tent camping areas varies significantly. A Mill Hollow visitor advised, "Thoroughly enjoyed our stay here. Road was very accessible lower down with some more adventurous offshoots requiring higher clearance and likely 4x4."
Alternative options: For RVers wanting tent amenities, established campgrounds work better. At Wasatch National Forest Sulphur Campground, a camper mentioned, "The camp spots are narrow, the road in/out is narrow. Our 25ft trailer seemed to be a max length, but there were some 32 ft goosenecks and motor homes there."
Satellite connectivity: Remote work is possible at some tent sites. A Mill Hollow visitor shared, "I bought a Starlink mini just so I can stay longer and work from there," which benefits RVers needing connectivity in dispersed camping areas.
