Dispersed camping options around Huntsville, Utah sit at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 8,500 feet in the Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during the day, dropping to 40-50°F at night. Vehicle access can be challenging on forest service roads after rainfall, with mud and ruts requiring high-clearance vehicles in many areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Red Pine Lake contains large trout populations ideal for catch-and-release fishing. According to one visitor to Red Pine Lake, "Both lakes were loaded with large trout, but I didn't have a fishing rod, so all I could do was look at them this time."
Winter activities: The Huntsville area transforms in winter months with snow-based recreation options. A camper at Port Ramp Marina notes, "This is a fantastic spot to go in the winter. Not only is it more beautiful (IMO) in the winter, but it gets loads of snow for snow sports, and it is right next to Powder Mountain and Snow Basin!"
Hiking trails: Access numerous trails directly from dispersed camping areas. One backpacker at Red Pine Lake shares, "Nearby are the upper and lower red pine lakes in addition to a couple smaller ponds in the red pine drainage. If you make your way through the talus field to the south you can gain the ridge and summit white baldy which gives one of the best views in the entire Wasatch!"
What campers like
Seasonal color changes: Fall camping offers spectacular foliage displays in the aspen groves. A visitor to Millcreek Canyon reports, "Everytime we come here we also see moose and deer. Best time is definitely fall."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide the best opportunities for wildlife spotting. At Split Rock Bay Backcountry Campsites, a camper observed, "Good hiking trails with great views and lots if animals to see."
Solitude on weekdays: Many dispersed camping areas near Huntsville become crowded on weekends but remain peaceful midweek. According to one camper at Red Pine Lake, "This can be done in a short 4 hour 7 mile out and back day hike but can be fully enjoyed as a backpacking trip. The weekend can get very busy so during the week is the best time to camp as it's likely you'll be the only overnight camper."
What you should know
Early arrival essential: Popular dispersed camping areas fill quickly, especially on weekends. One visitor to Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo advises, "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."
Seasonal access limitations: Higher elevation sites often have restricted seasons. A Millcreek Canyon visitor warns, "The drive up is beautiful but there is actually no drive in camping. Camping doesnt open until July 1st so take that into account."
Site selection challenges: Some dispersed areas have limited suitable spots for larger vehicles. A Monte Cristo camper explains, "About 1/4 mile down a dirt road from Hwy 39 is a good single boondocking spot with a great view. Not for large RVs. Our 17 ft trailer with 4x4 was tricky to get into the spot because the loop was so small."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly, particularly at higher elevations. One camper at Red Pine Lake recalls, "It stormed pretty hard in the middle of the night, and since the lake is up near the top of the mountain, it got pretty windy. Be prepared for significant foul weather and choose your campsite appropriately."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Tent camping near Huntsville offers access to lake activities during summer months. A visitor to Port Ramp Marina advises, "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."
Beginner backpacking: Several areas provide introductory backpacking experiences for children. One parent at Cook Campsite shares, "Aside from the excessive litter in a few places, This was a great place to give my 5 year old a taste of backpacking."
Stream play areas: Many camping locations feature shallow streams suitable for children. A Millcreek Canyon visitor notes, "We love Millcreek Canyon for camping, hiking, or even just going up for dinner at their day use spots. Pet friendly. One of our families favorite canyons. We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river. Just a fun time."
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most dispersed tent camping sites near Huntsville can accommodate small trailers but have tight turning areas. At Monte Cristo, one RVer explains, "Our 17 ft trailer with 4x4 was tricky to get into the spot because the loop was so small. Has a fire pit but with fire restrictions we didn't have a fire."
Dirt road conditions: Forest service roads can deteriorate rapidly after rainfall. A visitor to Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin comments, "We stayed here for the night on our rooftop tent. It's very quiet, barely any people. There's man made firepits made out of rocks of people who have stayed here."
Parking considerations: Many tent camping areas have limited parking space. One Curtis Creek camper notes, "Awesome time love the dirt road love love the trees the nature, everything about it basically the hills and country."
