The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Campgrounds near Nephi, UT

620 Reviews

Camping options near Nephi, Utah range from developed RV parks to primitive forest sites along the Wasatch Front. The area includes established campgrounds like Ponderosa and Bear Canyon in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest approximately 7 miles northeast of town. Maple Canyon, located about 30 miles southeast, offers tent and walk-in sites popular with rock climbers. For RV travelers, Rollin Home RV Park and Jones High Country RV Park provide full hookups within city limits, while Nebo Loop Road offers dispersed camping opportunities on public lands with more rustic conditions.

Access to camping areas varies significantly by season and elevation. Many forest service campgrounds including Ponderosa operate seasonally from May through September due to mountain weather conditions, with most sites closing after Labor Day. The Nebo Loop Road, which provides access to several camping areas, typically opens in late spring after snow melts but may close during adverse weather. Lower elevation sites near town remain accessible year-round. Nephi sits at approximately 5,300 feet, while nearby mountain camping areas can reach 9,000 feet, resulting in temperature differences of 15-20 degrees between town and forest campgrounds. According to one review, "Continuing over the 38-mile scenic highway is well worth the drive with sheer drop-offs demanding full attention ending in Nephi."

Camping experiences in the Nephi area feature notable contrasts between developed and primitive options. The higher elevation forest service campgrounds provide cooler temperatures and mountain views, with drinking water available at sites like Bear Canyon and Ponderosa. Several visitors mentioned enjoying the mountain backdrop and tranquility of these locations compared to in-town options. RV parks in Nephi offer convenient access to services but less privacy. A recent review of Rollin Home RV Park noted "Beautiful views if you pick your spot wisely" while highlighting good cell service and accessibility. Many campers appreciate the proximity to both mountain recreation and city amenities, with several mentioning the opportunity to visit nearby trails, fishing spots, and ATV routes accessible from forest campgrounds.

Map showing campgrounds near Nephi, UtahExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Nephi, Utah (185)

    1. Rollin' Home RV Park

    8 Reviews
    Nephi, UT
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 250-8800

    "Rollin Home RV Park

    Nephi, UT

    Site #10, PT, FHU, 1nt.

    Pros:

    Long wide Pullthrough,  with grass dividers.  2 service centers to pick from  make setting up easy."

    "Spots were full but they let us park in the parking lot for the night and gave us full access to showers and laundry. Great showers that were clean and nicer than some hotels."

    2. Jones High Country RV Park

    8 Reviews
    Nephi, UT
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 623-2624

    $20 - $30 / night

    "We stayed here on our way through Nephi. Friendly, Privately owned campground. Lots of pull-through spots. Beautiful mountain backdrop.

    Bathrooms, though old, are kept clean."

    "Close to everything, clean, quiet, and reasonably priced for full hookup. Has late drop box which was convenient."

    3. Maple Canyon

    12 Reviews
    Fountain Green, UT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 283-4151

    $10 - $40 / night

    "You are WALKING distance from sport climbs of all grades.

    Verizon service just outside the campground, where the pavement ends we parked at a turnout."

    "There are a lot of campsites and all are right next to climbing areas. The maple leaves in the fall are fantastic."

    4. Ponderosa Uinta

    7 Reviews
    Nephi, UT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 798-3571

    $26 - $51 / night

    "This place was shady and nice all around. The camping spots were spread out okay."

    "stream right next to campsite"

    5. Payson Lakes

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

    $28 - $272 / night

    "Located in National Forest at 8,000 ft with lots of sites, many of them pull through with fire rings."

    "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. "

    6. Cottonwood Campground

    4 Reviews
    Mona, UT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 466-6411

    "This canyon offers different hiking trails and camping sites, with picnic tables."

    "Pretty country, not too far from Salt Lake City... A small stream running through the area (in August!)... But small and right off the road... A picnic table and fire ring... Lovely trees..."

    7. Nebo Loop Road Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Nephi, UT
    8 miles

    8. Bear Canyon

    2 Reviews
    Mona, UT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 798-3571

    $93 - $129 / night

    "It also has individual sites but you must park your car and walk in to your campsite.

    There are flush toilets and the bathrooms are well kept."

    9. Ponderosa

    2 Reviews
    Mona, UT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 798-3571

    $21 / night

    "Have been going to this campground every year for nearly 60 years. Things have definitely changed, but still enjoy my visits there."

    10. Oasis Campground — Yuba State Park

    20 Reviews
    Fayette, UT
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 758-2611

    $40 - $100 / night

    "Place really gave that “middle of nowhere feel”, lake and surrounding area were beautiful. Campsites were simple and bathrooms were nice."

    "Each spot has a cover over the picnic table and most spots have a view of the lake. The spaces are pretty far apart and you have a decent amount of privacy."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 185 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Nephi Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Camping Photos near Nephi, UT

155 Photos of 185 Nephi Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Nephi, UT

620 Reviews of 185 Nephi Campgrounds

  • 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.

  • Cali C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Mud Creek Campground

    Spacious campground close to town

    There are tons of spots to choose from, and it always felt very safe. Lots of people with ATV’s and dirtbikes but not loud at all.

  • Jeff R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    Beautiful spot but trash everywhere

    Great views of the lake and surrounding mountains, but has trash, broken glass and junk everywhere.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Sheep Creek

    Convenient overnight spot

    Plenty of space for any camper. tents to fifth wheels. The night I camped 9/20/25 there were about a dozen vehicles.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    Many Sites of Varying Sizes

    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. Some are pretty reasonable, others are like mine fields. Suggest you park on the road and walk in. Many sites are “pull-throughs” so one entrance can be better than the other. Some great spots up the hill but you’ll need high clearance and 4wd. Bugs weren’t bad on this warm mid-September day. Some trash but I’ve been to more formal places with more trash than this. Access to the lake and lots of space to hike. Nice view of lights from the Provo side of the lake at night.

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Fivemile Pass OHV

    Amazing Night Sky

    This place is pretty amazing with beautiful views of the sunrise, sunset and stars. Lots of ORV trails for the off road enthusiasts. Problem…SO MANY FLIES. They don’t bite or sting but you could not be outside for very long before they were in everyone’s drinks and personal space! By sunset they were gone so watching the stars was enjoyable. I just wished we could have spent more time outside during our time at camp. We did discover someone had dumped all their garbage close by so that might have been part of the problem🤷‍♀️.

Guide to Nephi

Camping near Nephi, Utah, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or a place to enjoy outdoor activities, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing at Payson Lakes. One reviewer mentioned, "They regularly stock the lakes here with Brook Trout and Rainbow Trout. It is a fantastic place to bring your kids for fishing."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Diamond Fork. A visitor shared, "There are plenty of areas to do dispersed camping up Diamond Fork. With a bonus of being able to hike to some of the better hot springs close to Salt Lake."
  • Rock Climbing: If you're into climbing, Maple Canyon is a great spot. A climber said, "Nice campground with great rock climbing. Well maintained sites and toilet facilities."

What campers like

  • Space and Views: Campers appreciate the open fields at Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area. One review noted, "This was really just a big empty grass lot with plenty of space to spread out."
  • Clean Facilities: Many enjoy the cleanliness at Yuba Campground. A visitor remarked, "The campsite is pretty with clear views of the water and mountains. Bathrooms and showers."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers often mention the peacefulness at Miner's Canyon Dispersed. One reviewer said, "There were about 30 other campers and it was very quiet."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Sheep Creek have no drinking water or toilets. A camper pointed out, "No services. Has a nice wooden fence around the site."
  • Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can fill up quickly. A visitor at Yuba Campground mentioned, "I can imagine it gets pretty busy on weekends and in warmer weather."
  • Road Noise: Some campgrounds, like Diamond Fork, can have noise from nearby roads. One camper noted, "It looked like they had been there for a week or two."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Springville / Provo KOA Holiday that have amenities for kids. A parent shared, "Everything is clean and complete. Even the kitchen is clean and large in the hall."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities lined up. One family enjoyed the game room at the KOA, saying, "Had a great time playing a shrunken bowling game in the game room."
  • Check Weather Conditions: Be prepared for changing weather, especially in spring and fall. A camper at Yuba Campground mentioned, "It was 25 degrees overnight so we were grateful to have the electric hook up!"

Tips from RVers

  • Look for Big Rig Friendly Spots: Campgrounds like Yuba Campground are noted for accommodating larger RVs. One reviewer said, "We have a 42 ft motorhome and a separate pickup with a 6x12 trailer and we fit both in a pull-through site."
  • Be Ready for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds, such as Springville / Provo KOA Holiday, can feel cramped. A visitor noted, "Your door opens right to the neighbors' hookups."
  • Check for Cell Service: Make sure to check cell coverage if you need to stay connected. A camper at Diamond Fork mentioned, "Verizon/Xfinity mobile had no service but ATT does."

Camping near Nephi, Utah, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds in Nephi, Utah?

Nephi offers several excellent camping options within a short drive. Payson Lakes is a top choice about 45 minutes away, featuring beautiful lakes for fishing, swimming, and kayaking in a serene setting at 8,000 feet elevation with pull-through sites and fire rings. Another excellent option is Manti-LaSal National Forest Potters Pond Campground, which offers a tranquil experience with abundant trees and brush that create a remote wilderness feel. For those seeking free camping options, Nebo Loop Road provides scenic dispersed camping, while Bear Canyon offers reservable sites with water and toilets.

Can I camp in Nephi Canyon and what facilities are available?

Camping is available in the Nephi Canyon area with varying facilities. Cottonwood Campground is a free option in the canyon, though facilities are basic with just one pit toilet. For those seeking a more scenic experience, Skyline Drive offers dispersed camping along a dirt road near Tucker, Utah, with a creek and interesting rock formations but minimal facilities. Both locations are suitable for those seeking budget-friendly options, though you should be prepared to bring your own water and supplies. The canyon area provides good access for outdoor activities, but facilities are generally limited to basic fire rings at established sites.

Is Cottonwood Campground a good place to camp in Nephi?

Cottonwood Campground has mixed reviews as a camping destination. It's a free campground outside Nephi, but its condition is often described as somewhat trashy with old toilet seats and scattered garbage. The campground has developed a reputation as a local party spot, which may impact the experience for families or those seeking tranquility. There is a single pit toilet on site. For those seeking a more maintained camping experience near Nephi, Ponderosa offers reservable sites with water and toilets, making it a more developed alternative with better facilities, though it does require a fee unlike the free Cottonwood Campground.

What RV parks are available near Nephi, Utah?

Jones High Country RV Park is a friendly, privately owned campground in Nephi offering numerous pull-through spots with a beautiful mountain backdrop. It's budget-friendly at $25 per night for Good Sam members or $150 weekly. While the bathrooms are older, they're maintained clean. Another option is Canyon View RV Park, which provides convenient access for RVers passing through the area. For those willing to drive a bit further, Oasis Campground at Yuba State Park offers RV sites with lake views, covered picnic tables, and more privacy between spaces, plus swimming and beach access.

Keep Exploring