American Fork Canyon provides multiple dog-friendly campgrounds near Highland, Utah at elevations ranging from 6,400 to 7,400 feet. The area features limestone and dolomite geology with numerous climbing routes established in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Campgrounds typically operate from April through mid-October, with higher elevation sites opening later in the season due to snowpack.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Scout Falls is accessible via a 1-mile hike from Timpooneke Campground, making it suitable for families. "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 John M.
Rock climbing: American Fork Canyon contains over 50 beginner to intermediate climbing routes within 5-10 minutes of Little Mill Campground. "There are over 50 beginner, moderate, and intermediate routes with a few tough ones mixed in! Our favorite wall around here is Serenity Wall," according to Alan B.
Paddle sports: Non-motorized water activities are available at reservoirs near Granite Flat Campground. "The water was cool and there were tons of people there with paddle boards, canoos, tents, and dogs," reports Ash S., though noting that "this year there were an obscene amount of mosquitoes."
What campers like
Cool mountain temperatures: Higher elevation campgrounds provide relief from summer heat. "Granite Flat 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," explains Andrea P.
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer good separation between camping areas. "Each camping area is nice, however, it is very very busy and pretty tight quarters. If you're looking for a little more privacy from neighbors this may not be your best bet," mentions Sydney Z. about Granite Flat.
Water sounds: Several pet-welcoming campsites in the Highland area feature creeks or rivers. "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," shares Stacy R.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially for 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," cautions Ash S. about Granite Flat.
Road noise: Some campsites experience traffic noise despite natural surroundings. "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," warns Myrna G. about Little Mill.
Gate closure times: Access restrictions apply at certain campgrounds. "Make sure you get camped and in because they lock the gate coming into campground at 11PM and you have to hike in," notes Brad B. about Granite Flat Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Willow Park Campground offers developed recreation facilities. "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. Big camp sites for trailers or tents and nice bathrooms," writes Brad B.
Large group areas: Some sites accommodate multiple tents for family gatherings. "There were a couple spots that were semi private but most were very exposed. Lots of area on some of them though for multiple tents," reports Helen A. about Nunns Park.
Proximity to Timpanogos Cave: Quick access to educational opportunities exists from several campgrounds. "Little Mill is beautiful and so easy to access. I appreciate that it's first come first serve for last minute campers like me," says Julianna P. The cave is just minutes away from several campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal RV options: Year-round camping is available at Lakeside RV Campground near Provo. "Pull through sites with grass between. Pool was very nice. Cute little store," reports Denise P.
Hook-up availability: Most canyon campgrounds offer limited or no hookups, while valley locations provide more services. "This campground has a quirky charm and was perfect for my one night stay on my road trip across country," notes Christine about Lakeside RV.
Site spacing: RV sites vary significantly in terms of proximity to neighbors. "Full hook-up site was surprisingly spacious with green space in-between and trees for shade. Facilities are clean and comfortable and camp store is well stocked," shares Mark C. about Lakeside RV Campground.
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