Camping near Heber, Utah offers options from 6,400 to 7,400 feet elevation, with temperature swings typical of mountain environments. The region features dense pine and aspen forests with multiple waterways including the Provo River and several small lakes. Many campgrounds close seasonally from mid-September through May due to snowfall and freezing temperatures.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Access trails from Timpooneke Campground that lead to Scout Falls, about a mile from the campground. "Scout falls (while not overly impressive) is about 1 mile into the hike. Make sure you camp in designated spots as fires are prohibited everywhere else," notes a visitor to Timpooneke.
Fishing in mountain waters: Fish in streams and small ponds throughout the area. At Granite Flat, campers appreciate "access to many fishing lakes and hiking trails!" The American Fork Creek runs through Little Mill Campground, providing streamside fishing opportunities.
Winter snowshoeing: Experience the area during winter months when crowds thin. "Wonderful winter wonder land you can snowshoe into in the winter and camp at! You can also stay here during the summer just be prepared to book a couple months in advance," advises a visitor to the Spruces in Big Cottonwood Canyon.
What campers like
Natural sound barriers: Creeks and rivers mask road noise at several sites. At Nunns Park, "The river is right there and makes some beautiful yet subtle white noise. It is in provo canyon and the cliffs on either side are very impressive."
Aspen groves: The changing colors and unique forest environment at Little Deer Creek Campground in Wasatch Mountain State Park draw visitors. "Lots of aspen trees, nice bathrooms some with soap, some vaulted. Lots of room," notes a camper about this glamping option close to Heber, Utah.
Off-leash dog areas: Some locations offer dedicated pet spaces. Near River's Edge at Heber Valley, "if you cross the road there's a larger river and a trail where dogs can go off leash," making it a good option for those glamping near Heber with pets.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. A camper at Spruces - Big Cottonwood warns, "Be aware of your travel plans and book early because the campground fills fast." At Granite Flat, a visitor cautions, "Be aware that this campsite reservations for the weekend fill up quick. I checked in late May and every weekend until September was already booked."
Road access challenges: Some locations require high-clearance vehicles. Little Deer Creek Campground has "a really rough ride and won't take my bike out there again. Would be a great drive though if you have a 4x4," according to one visitor.
Pet restrictions: Not all campgrounds allow dogs. Tanners Flat notes "NO Dogs allowed in the canyon - it is a watershed," while Redman Campground visitors mention, "We had planned to camp here but dogs are not allowed. This campground looked like an awesome spot."
Tips for camping with families
Play areas and water features: Find campgrounds with dedicated recreation spaces. A visitor to Mt. Timpanogos notes, "You can find different things to enjoy including fishing, off roading (ATV, 4 wheelers), hiking, kayaking."
Educational options: Explore nearby attractions that combine learning with outdoor recreation. At Little Mill, a camper shares that the "campground is beautiful. It is small and next to a little river. Has lots of spots for rvs and tent camping."
Gate closure awareness: Check campground policies about nighttime access. At Granite Flat, a visitor cautions, "Make sure you get camped and in because they lock the gate coming into campground at 11PM and you have to hike in."
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Check length restrictions before booking. A visitor to Redman Campground advises, "It's better for small campers or tent campers as the driveways were not designed for big rigs."
Year-round options: For winter camping near Heber, Utah, consider River's Edge at Heber Valley which operates year-round, unlike many seasonal campgrounds in the area.
Rough road preparation: Some glamping locations near Heber require navigating unpaved roads. At Little Deer Creek, one visitor explains, "The drive though can be a little rough...I was in a 2014 Explorer and it took us roughly a half hour to drive the 5 miles up to camp. If you have a 4X4, it should be no issue."
