Backcountry tent camping near Midvale, Utah typically requires permits and follows strict regulations. Located in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, these camping areas range from 7,000 to 10,500 feet in elevation. Summer temperatures at higher elevations can drop to 40°F at night even when valley temperatures reach 90°F, creating significant temperature variations campers must prepare for.
What to do
Fishing in alpine lakes: Silver Lake Backcountry offers excellent trout fishing opportunities in its clear waters. According to Bentz E., "Lots of hikes to do nearby, beautiful views, and place to paddle board, kayak, etc." The lakes are stocked with trout, making this a productive fishing destination.
Off-road adventures: Kimball Campground provides access to motor-friendly trails. Bethany R. notes, "If you ride dirt bikes/atvs most of the trails are motor friendly and the lake is a great spot for kayaking!!" A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is necessary to access many of these areas.
Multi-peak hiking: From Red Pine Lake base camps, hikers can summit nearby peaks. Justin C. explains, "I also hiked up to the upper red pine lake, which is a very steep climb. The trail is unmarked and nearly impossible to follow, so it requires some creativity and bushwacking/rock hopping to get up there, which was fun for me."
What campers like
Weekday solitude: Midweek camping offers significantly less crowded conditions. Chloe B. from Red Pine Lake shares, "Busy on the weekend, but still able to find solitude near the water. Peaceful camping even on a Saturday night!" Many sites that fill completely on weekends remain largely vacant Monday through Thursday.
Wildlife viewing: Silver Lake Backcountry provides opportunities to see deer herds and other wildlife. Laynie R. reports, "The scenery is beautiful and we even saw a herd of deer run by our camp." Morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife viewing times.
Star visibility: Higher elevation campsites provide exceptional night sky viewing. According to Ethan H., "the views make the drive there worth it, though. the fall colors during the day and the stars during the night were spectacular!" Limited light pollution at these elevations creates ideal stargazing conditions.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many access roads require specific vehicles. Emily T. from Kimball Campground notes, "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."
Seasonal access limitations: Canyon roads close seasonally. Ryan G. warns 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." Always check current road and access conditions before planning trips.
Distance requirements: Rules mandate specific camping distances from water and roads. Cortlan S. observes at Silver Lake Backcountry, "Saw lots of people camping super close to the lake and even along the shores, which is not allowed. You need to stay at least 1/2 mile away from the lake to camp." Rangers enforce these watershed protection regulations.
Tips for camping with families
Early arrival strategy: Popular spots fill quickly during peak season. Connor O. advises about Kimball Campground, "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."
Challenging terrain considerations: Some of the best tent camping near Midvale involves rough ground conditions. Chris J. from Dutchman Mine Flats notes, "Unfortunately, the majority of the ground camping is relatively rocky and uneven, but there are some gems. If you're one of the first up, you will be very likely to get a good spot."
Water filtration needs: No potable water exists at most backcountry sites. Justin C. explains, "The hike up to the lake starts off pretty easily, and since it follows the stream coming down, clean drinking water is always at hand. I didn't have to carry anything beyond my little half liter filter bottle."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most areas near Midvale restrict RVs to established campgrounds. While tent camping options abound, true RV camping requires traveling further from the mountains. Angela S. from Camp Eagle Mountain shares, "It is a dry area and hot mid-summer, but good base for ATV, bike, and hunting areas. No ATV/bike riding or hunting on the campground - just a good base camp for those types of activities."
Alternative park camping: Small RVs can sometimes use park campgrounds. Michelle B. describes Anderson Park: "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."
