Jordanelle State Park offers camping opportunities at elevations between 6,000-7,400 feet, creating distinct temperature patterns where summer days reach the mid-80s while evenings drop to the 50s. Located within the Provo River watershed, campgrounds near Heber provide access to fishing spots with rainbow and brown trout. Roads to higher elevation sites like Cascade Springs typically close from November through May due to snowfall.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: Scout Falls is accessible via a 1-mile hike from Timpooneke Campground where visitors can connect to the larger Mount Timpanogos trail system. "It's a great place to hammock and hike. Scout falls (while not overly impressive) is about 1 mile into the hike," notes John M.
Fish year-round: The Provo River system provides accessible fishing locations with stocked trout. "Great fishing! We catch something every time we go," explains Derek E. about the fishing at Jordanelle State Park, which maintains consistent water levels even during drought periods.
Off-road vehicle trails: Multiple designated routes branch from the Alpine Loop road system. "We were able to rent a Razor UTV on site and took a mapped out 4 hr drive through our beautiful mountains, straight out of the campground," describes Cindy H. about her experience at Mountain Valley RV Resort.
What campers like
Level, maintained sites: Mountain Valley RV Resort features concrete pads that stay clean during variable weather. "The concrete was level and spacious, each with its own picnic table," notes Carlyne F. in her review, highlighting how this addresses the region's spring mud issues.
Running water soundtrack: Many campsites position visitors near moving water. "Little Mill is beautiful and so easy to access. I appreciate that it's first come first serve for last minute campers like me," explains Julianna P. about Little Mill Campground, which features sites adjacent to American Fork Creek.
Non-reservation options: Some areas maintain first-come, first-served sites for spontaneous trips. "We went to the jordanelle and they told us about a campsite that's about .5 mile hike and its first come first serve. It was great - it had a firepit and picnic table and was right on the lake," shares kendall B. about an undeveloped camping area at Jordanelle.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "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 securing spots at Granite Flat Campground.
Road conditions: Access roads to higher elevation sites require appropriate vehicles. "Don't come with a trailer. Just don't do it. Sure is pretty but we never made it to the top," cautions Sherezade F. about Cascade Springs Dispersed Site, where spring runoff creates significant ruts.
Gate closures: "Make sure you get camped and in because they lock the gate coming into campground at 11PM and you have to hike in," advises Brad B. about certain areas where late arrivals face unexpected barriers.
Tips for camping with families
Dedicated play spaces: Pine Creek Campground at Wasatch Mountain State Park includes child-friendly zones. "Close to fishing pond, play area for kids, beautiful golf courses, hikes, Midway/Heber cities, fishing rivers and beautiful drives up the mountains for more exploring," shares Aaron G.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening offer chances to spot local animals. "Wild turkeys - deer - great hiking," notes Timothy E. about his experience at Pine Creek Campground, where wildlife routinely moves through the camping area.
Swimming alternatives: When lake temperatures remain cold, look for heated options nearby. "We LOVED Little Mill! It's the perfect campground. It has the smell of pine trees, a babbling brook, and it is just down the road from Timpanogos Cave National Monument," explains Stacy R. about this family-friendly alternative to water recreation.
Tips from RVers
Pressure regulator needed: Water connections at certain campgrounds require protective equipment. "Great campsite. Clean and nice amenities for a State Park. Be careful hooking up your RV to water. Very high pressure," warns Trevor S. about River's Edge at Heber Valley.
Off-season availability: Several campgrounds remain open year-round with limited services. "The spots are small gravel and rather level. We are happy with the size of our spot. Each spot has a fire pit and picnic table," explains CJ L. about River's Edge, noting its cold-weather accessibility.
Separate dog facilities: Multiple dog-friendly campgrounds near Heber offer specialized pet amenities. "They have an on-site RV wash available and allowed us to borrow an adaptor from them at no charge. We enjoyed an evening in their hot tub/spa," reports Carlyne F. about the comprehensive facilities at Mountain Valley RV Resort.
