Glamping close to Highland, Utah sits between American Fork Canyon and Little Cottonwood Canyon with elevations ranging from 4,800 to 7,400 feet. Sites operate primarily from late spring through mid-October, with seasonal closures in higher elevations due to snow conditions. Water access points remain restricted in watershed areas like Little Cottonwood Canyon where dogs aren't allowed.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Scout Falls sits about 1 mile from Timpooneke Campground on the Mount Timpanogos trail. "Scout falls is about 1 mile into the hike. Make sure you camp in designated spots as fires are prohibited everywhere else," notes one visitor. Multiple waterfall hikes connect directly to several glamping sites.
Rock climbing access: Established routes within 5-10 minutes of Little Mill Campground attract climbers of all abilities. "Within about 5-10 minutes are over 50 beginner, moderate, and intermediate routes with a few tough ones mixed in," reports a climber. The area contains historic sport routes established in the late 80s and early 90s.
Paragliding observation: Flight Park offers unique viewing opportunities for aerial sports when winds pick up. "The location is where paragliders take off from which I'd imagine is pretty cool to watch but it definitely creates more noise," mentions one camper. Morning launches provide the most consistent viewing.
What campers like
Creek-side campsites: Many sites at Granite Flat include creek frontage for ambient sound. "We were right next to a beautiful river and it was pretty quiet," explains a camper. The water proximity helps mask road noise that carries through canyons.
High elevation cooling: Summer temperatures remain 10-15 degrees cooler than valley floor sites. "Spruces is a very pretty - and popular campground. High up American Fork Canyon tucked in the forest. The elevation is about 6400 ft- so no spring camping," one reviewer notes.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk offer prime moose watching at Redman Campground in Big Cottonwood Canyon. "Very nice campground with water running in multiple places, clean multiple bathrooms and incredible wildlife coming right into your site. In addition to numerous deer, we had two moose munching away at the willow at the adjacent site," shares an enthusiastic visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Sites fill quickly during peak season. "Book EARLY! This campsite is always full," warns a camper about Granite Flat. "I checked in late May and every weekend until September was already booked."
Road noise considerations: Traffic sound carries through canyons, particularly at lower elevation sites. "My only reason this campground didn't get 5 stars is due to the horrible road noise. I seriously thought I was at a truck stop off the interstate. Honking and racing cars until 3am just ruined it," reports a camper at Little Mill.
Gate closure schedules: Night access may require walking in if arriving after hours. "Make sure you get camped and in because they lock the gate coming into campground at 11PM and you have to hike in," advises a Tanners Flat visitor. Several area campgrounds enforce similar restrictions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several sites include dedicated play structures. "Nice little park, sites are a little close. 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," notes a camper at Nunns Park.
Shallow water play: Creeks and small reservoirs provide safe wading options. "We were able to paddle board which was a blast! I loves being so close and having access to so many beautiful hikes and Rick climbing," shares a family that visited Granite Flat.
Central location benefits: Minimal driving between activities maximizes family time. "This is a really easy-access campground so it's great for little kids. Beautiful canyon, lots of spots, and just a great time," says a Little Mill visitor.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most canyon sites accommodate smaller rigs only. "This campground is pretty, but it is not for family camping with a tent. This campground has pull-through areas for people towing camping trailers, but not much for those that want to set up a full-size tent and lounge around outside," cautions a visitor at Tanners Flat.
Extended stay considerations: Limited services require planning. "There are no showers, and a few sites not enough shade trees over the site," notes a reviewer about Spruces Campground. Most glamping options near Highland offer composting toilets rather than full bathrooms with showers.
Leveling challenges: Uneven terrain affects comfort in hard-sided units. "The one downside was that the tent spot was not flat, and had quite a few large rocks," reports a visitor about Mt. Timpanogos sites. Bringing leveling blocks helps overcome terrain issues.
