Horse campgrounds near Herriman, Utah offer access to trails ranging from 5,200 to 7,400 feet in elevation. The surrounding area includes both canyon environments and alpine terrain, with summer temperatures averaging 10-15 degrees cooler than in the Salt Lake Valley. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with limited availability during spring months due to snowmelt conditions at higher elevations.
What to Do
Trail riding at Silver Lake: Located about 40 minutes from Herriman, the Silver Lake Backcountry area offers extensive riding opportunities. "Sliver lake is amazing and the river running is stunning with amazing hike or UTV Or ATV Riding!" notes Philip E. The area requires modest hiking to reach campsites beyond the parking area.
Mountain exploration: Mount Timpanogos Campground provides access to numerous trails. "I came to hike Timp and stayed for a couple nights just as they were closing and this was the perfect spot under a mile from the trailhead," writes Mariah G. about the Mount Timpanogos Campground.
City-adjacent camping: For equestrians wanting minimal travel time, Willow Park Campground offers river access within city limits. "This is a great place to camp within the city of Lehi. It is close to the water and in the hot summer it is a fun spot for a night get away," explains Brad B. The Jordan River Parkway connects directly to the campground.
What Campers Like
Higher elevation options: The Timpooneke area provides cooler temperatures at 7,400 feet elevation. "Timooneke is beautiful. High elevation(7400ft) campground up the popular Alpine Loop," writes Andrea P. This makes it particularly valuable during hot summer months.
Proximity to water features: Campers appreciate sites with water access. "Spent only one night but had the whole Campground to ourselves. Nice big level spot with fire pit and separate upright grill. Bathrooms clean with flush toilets, running water but no showers," reports Myrna G. about Nunns Park.
Equestrian-friendly terrain: Kimball Campground offers natural settings appropriate for horse camping. "The campsites are hidden within trees up the dirt road just past Silver Lake flats on the dirt road. The dirt road gets rough and rocky, but is driveable," explains Emily T. Many visitors note the privacy of individual sites despite their proximity.
What You Should Know
Advance reservations essential: Popular camping areas fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. "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," advises Connor O. about Kimball Campground.
Water availability limitations: Many dispersed camping areas lack reliable water sources. "FREE! No amenities! Must carry in all water. Shooting Range nearby. Great for ATVs and off road vehicles," notes Michelle B. about Soldier's Pass. Plan to bring sufficient water for both humans and horses.
Vehicle requirements: Some roads accessing prime camping areas demand appropriate vehicles. "You do have to drive through a small river and must camp half a mile from the lake," explains Laynie R. about Silver Lake Backcountry. Four-wheel drive is often necessary after rain or early in the season.
Tips for Camping with Families
Spacious sites for groups: Certain campgrounds accommodate multiple tents and family activities. "This is just down the street from our house but it's a fun place for family, neighborhood and scout camp outs any time of year. Great trails, playground, river access, and lots of room to spread out!!" shares Jeremy H. about Willow Park.
Moderate hiking options: Granite Flat Campground provides family-friendly trail access. "I really enjoyed camping here with a group of friends. Each camping area is nice, however, it is very very busy and pretty tight quarters," notes Sydney Z. The area includes smaller lakes suitable for beginning paddlers.
Bug preparation: Insects can be problematic, particularly near water. "Mosquitos were terrible, bring bug spray!" warns Bill M. about dispersed camping areas. Late summer typically sees fewer mosquitoes than the June-July period.
Tips from RVers
City convenience with hookups: Mountain Shadows RV Park offers full services for equestrians needing electricity or water. "We were treated like royalty by the staff. The facility had wonderful laundry and bathrooms," shares Joh. This location provides a good base for accessing regional trails by trailer.
Trailer access considerations: Many forest campgrounds have limitations for larger vehicles. "Challenging back-in for our 30' ft travel trailer. Very cramped spot," explains Char P. Most horse-friendly campgrounds recommend vehicles under 30 feet due to turning radius constraints and limited pull-through availability.
Level site availability: Finding level spots for trailers requires research. "Our site was right by the entrance and near a stream bed that was dry. It was incredibly quiet, silent even, at night," notes Lauren about Mount Timpanogos Campground. RVers should call ahead to confirm sites can accommodate their specific rig dimensions.
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