Dispersed camping options for horse enthusiasts surround Heber, Utah, situated at elevations between 5,500 and 8,000 feet in the Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 45-55°F at night. Most equestrian-friendly dispersed camping areas maintain primitive conditions requiring self-sufficiency for both riders and horses.
What to do
Fishing at Currant Creek: Anglers find productive fishing for trout at Currant Creek Reservoir, accessible via a washboard dirt road. Currant Creek Campground provides access to fishing spots around the lake. "Fishing is good for trout. Higher elevation so you escape some of the summer heat," notes Charles W., who camped there in 2021.
Hiking to alpine lakes: The trail system near Silver Lake Backcountry offers multiple hiking routes through aspen groves and meadows. "I spent another day only up near the site, there's a trail head that leads off to about 3 or 4 different trails I did trail 173 it was 2.5miles and it took you up so you have an amazing elevated view of the mountains and lake," shares Bethany R. about her experience at Kimball Campground.
OHV riding on forest roads: The network of forest service roads around Soapstone Basin provides extensive terrain for off-highway vehicles. "This area has many camp sites to choose from, traveling from the highway 150 will absolutely require 4x4 but the other end could manage without," mentions Eddie P., who camped at Soapstone Basin Dispersed Camping in 2025.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevations around Heber offer relief from summer valley heat. "We were planning to stay at the campground but it was closed, so we took advantage of free dispersed camping right outside. This is LNT(leave no trace) camping so be sure to pack out what you pack in," reports Jenny R. about her stay at Dispersed Camping--Mill Hollow/Utah FR054.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forested areas provide habitat for diverse wildlife species. "We even saw a herd of deer run by our camp. Fishing is right up the road too," reports Laynie R. after camping at Silver Lake Backcountry. Many campers report moose sightings in early mornings near Mill Hollow and Soapstone Basin.
Night sky visibility: Dark skies permit excellent stargazing from most horse campgrounds near Heber, Utah. "The sunsets, the moon out during the day, and the stars at night...just incredible!" writes Belinda H. about her experience at Mill Hollow. Light pollution remains minimal at most equestrian camping areas above 7,000 feet.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many access roads to equestrian camping sites require high-clearance vehicles. "The road was very accessible lower down with some more adventurous offshoots requiring higher clearance and likely 4x4. We went up an offshoot and navigated through and around some deeper ruts and snow drifts," explains Adam J. about Mount Timpanogos Campground.
Campsite availability limitations: Popular horse-friendly camping areas fill quickly during summer weekends. "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," warns Ash S. about Granite Flat Campground.
Weather variability: Sudden temperature drops and afternoon storms occur frequently in summer months. At higher elevations, nighttime temperatures can dip into the 40s even in July. "It was incredibly quiet, silent even, at night. Gorgeous but a little chilly," notes Lauren about Mount Timpanogos Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Stream access for children: Many equestrian-friendly sites offer access to shallow streams safe for supervised play. "We spent our afternoons paddleboarding on Silver Lake Reservoir," shares Michelle B. about her family experience at Silver Lake Backcountry, noting that "fishing, and light watercraft permissible in Silver Lake Resevoir."
Choose sites with space for activities: Some horse campgrounds offer extra room for family games and activities. "There is a huge spot of grass that you can play sports or baseball on. Can't remember the site we had but there was a huge rock that was fun for the scouts to climb on," describes Brad B. about his experience at Granite Flat Campground.
Consider proximity to hiking trails: Family-friendly horse camping sites often connect to shorter hiking trails. "The camp spots here are super nice. The best part is how close it is to Provo. Super convenient," explains Joshua C. about Nunns Park, making it suitable for families seeking brief adventures.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions on forest roads: Larger horse trailers face challenges on narrower forest roads. "Our 20' trailer does fine. Close in to town, very pretty with Provo river next to it. Bike path and highway noise can be distracting," explains Michael L. about his experience at Nunns Park.
Limited hookup availability: Most equestrian camping sites near Heber have minimal or no hookups. "There are no hook ups-electric, water, sewer at this campground. There are restrooms in each loop of the campground. There is a quiet time enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM. No generators after 10 PM," reports Michelle E. about Currant Creek.
Advance planning required: RVers with horse trailers should scout routes before arrival. "Sites at Currant Creek near Heber City allow horse trailer parking and access to surrounding trail networks, though campers must bring portable corrals or highlines," notes a local equestrian camper.
