Tent campsites near Hooper, Utah spread across the high desert and mountain landscapes of northern Utah, ranging in elevation from 4,200 feet at the valley floor to over 9,000 feet in nearby mountain ranges. The area features a dry continental climate with dramatic temperature fluctuations between seasons and from day to night. Primitive camping spots often have rocky, uneven terrain requiring careful tent placement, particularly in dispersed camping areas where established pads are absent.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Split Rock Bay: Visitors camping at Split Rock Bay Backcountry Campsites frequently encounter wildlife up close, especially the large bison herds. One visitor noted, "By this time I've seen a huge herd of Bison (50 or more individuals), a big buck, 20 or so other deer, and with the fog and haziness, some of the most beautiful scenery I've ever seen."
Ice fishing in winter seasons: For winter camping enthusiasts, camping locations near Port Ramp Marina offer unexpected cold-weather activities. A camper observed, "The lake will freeze over enough to walk on or fish on. There were plenty of people ice fishing when we went."
Backcountry hiking from established trails: At tent camping sites near Millcreek Canyon, backcountry camping regulations provide structure while allowing freedom. A camper explains, "Good trails to approach from are Church fork and Lambs Canyon Trailhead. Lambs Canyon is much more shaded and provides views down the canyon into Salt Lake Valley from the saddle."
What campers like
Fall color viewing: The Monte Cristo area receives high praise for autumn camping when aspen forests change color. A visitor shared, "We could not have asked for a more perfect spot. The views were immaculate, the sites were very spread out, it was the end of September and all the leaves were changing."
Dog-friendly trail networks: Unlike many camping areas, Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping welcomes four-legged companions. A reviewer highlighted, "This is one of the only canyons that allows dogs!" Others noted the canyon's trail system primarily attracts runners rather than hikers.
Mountain climbing access: Sites at Loop Campground serve as jumping-off points for peak adventures. A camper detailed, "For those that want to get a little closer to the peak, there is a 7 mile one way trail to the top of Deseret Peak that offers amazing views of the Great Salt Lake Valley!"
What you should know
Bison safety precautions: At Split Rock Bay, bison encounters require preparation and caution. A tent camper warned, "In sort of a panic, I grab some essentials, zip up the tent, and head for the rocks on the hills and wait them out. Unfortunately I didn't grab my Garmin or my warm clothes, and it is taking them forever to get past the tent site."
Seasonal road closures: Many camping areas have unpredictable access schedules. One visitor to Millcreek noted, "Warning - road is closed 3.5 miles into the park before where camping spots were indicated. No notice on when it would reopen."
Limited water access: Preparing for water scarcity is essential at Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin and most dispersed sites. Campers report no drinking water sources and often need to drive significant distances for resupply. At Loop Campground, this meant "a very long drive down a rutted gravel road, out of the canyon, and back to Grantsville. I think it was 40 minutes each way."
Tips for camping with families
Gentle backpacking introduction: Some Hooper-area sites work well for introducing children to overnight hiking. At Cook Campsite, a parent shared, "This was a great place to give my 5 year old a taste of backpacking."
Educational wildlife encounters: Multiple camping areas offer wildlife viewing opportunities safe for children. A parent camping near Skull Valley Rd mentioned, "Beautiful, quite, clean... lots of hiking trails and many spots to choose from!"
Consider seasonal beach access: Lake beaches near Hooper expand and contract dramatically with seasonal water levels. A visitor noted, "Beautiful lake, nice beaches, but only if you go in the late summer or fall. Spring runoff makes this lake rise significantly, which completely submerged the beach we were playing on."
Tips from RVers
Rough road preparation: Many dispersed camping sites require sturdy vehicles. One RVer at Skull Valley Road reported, "We brought a 30' RV with a lifted Ram 2500 and had no problem driving over the washouts."
Limited turnaround space: At dispersed camping areas near Monte Cristo, tight access roads can challenge larger rigs. A camper warned, "Our 17 ft trailer with 4x4 was tricky to get into the spot because the loop was so small."
Early arrival requirement: Competition for prime camping spots intensifies on weekends. A visitor to Monte Cristo advised, "There are tons of free site all up and down the main road. The only problem is it is busy if you leave on Friday plan to get there by 3 at the latest. Spots fill quick."
