Camping spots near Hyde Park, Utah range in elevation from 4,500 feet in the valley to over 8,000 feet at higher locations like Tony Grove Lake. The camping season varies dramatically with elevation, with lower campgrounds accessible from April through October while higher elevations may only be accessible during the warmest summer months. Road conditions deteriorate quickly after rainfall, particularly in dispersed camping areas.
What to do
Paddle on Hyrum Reservoir: Day visitors and campers at Hyrum State Park Campground can enjoy water activities on the reservoir. "This state park is basically in the middle of a neighborhood of a small community. Locals seem to love it but it's not crowded at all... It's right on a small lake with a boat ramp and a small beach," notes camper Brenda L.
Hike Tony Grove trails: The trail system at Tony Grove Lake offers varied difficulty levels from beginner to advanced. "When looking at the lake from the parking lot, take the left path and head to the south part of the lake where all the pine trees are and secure a picnic table and a few trees to hang a hammock to soak in the view of the lake," suggests Dale J.
Mountain biking: The canyon areas provide extensive trail networks for mountain bikers. At Green Canyon, campers report "tons of people camping, hiking, mountain biking, and ATVs, so some traffic on the road, even after dark. Road ends a few miles in with a closed gate," according to Kristen P.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Smithfield Campground in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest provides excellent nature viewing. "It is a favorite spot for us and our family. We often turn left on to the dirt road and pick a spot there. But you stay straight and it takes you in to a very nice campground with tables and toilets," shares Austin K.
Running water sound: Many campers appreciate the natural sound barrier provided by creek access. At Guinavah - Malibu Campground, "My fiance and I really enjoyed our weekend. Our spot was kinda near some other sites, but everybody was really respectful. It was really nice to have the noise from the river in the background," notes Mikhial S.
Spring access: Some camping areas feature natural springs that are particularly appealing for families with children. "The spring was fun for the kids to play in. There was a small dam at the bottom where the kids could swim and kayak," mentions Maybo H. about Spring Hollow Campground.
What you should know
Winter access limitations: Many forest roads close seasonally, affecting camping availability. "Road to dispersed camping is closed Dec 1 - April 15. Permit fee is $10 for 3 days," reports Joanna about Green Canyon Dispersed Campground.
Cell coverage varies: Connectivity depends heavily on terrain and proximity to Logan. "We camped with friends we had cell service via t-mobile, att&t, and visible with varying strengths. No cost, first come first serve," reports CrookedSnake about Green Canyon.
Road noise consideration: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise due to proximity to highways. At Guinavah-Malibu, "My one gripe is that the campground is fairly close to the main road and you can hear all the traffic. It does quiet down later in the day, but the road noise can be distracting at times."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Spring Hollow Campground offers gentler water play options for children. "Very green, lush, and beautiful. The river running through the camp is also awesome. The only reason it gets 4 stars instead of 5 is because it doesn't have flushing toilets," explains Adam P.
Educational rock formations: Some canyon areas feature interesting geological formations that children enjoy exploring. In Green Canyon, one visitor noted "Cool rock visuals above a majority of the sites. Also tons of trails and mountain bikers. Met some climbers working on a sketch little project on one of the many many boulders."
Short hiking trails: Look for beginner-friendly trails appropriate for younger hikers. At Tony Grove Lake, "There is a variety of hiking trails. One goes all around the lake," mentions Jackie H., making it suitable for families with varying hiking abilities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many RV campers note the importance of selecting level sites in this mountainous region. At Wood Camp Campground, "This campground is just off the road going up Logan canyon. It is set right next to the river which helps drown out the noise from the road," shares Preston P., though he notes "some spots are a little close together compared to what I prefer."
Size limitations: Most forest service campgrounds cannot accommodate larger rigs. At Tony Grove, campers specifically note it's "Not for large RVs," while Wood Camp Campground has only 6 sites total with limited spacing.
Year-round RV options: For winter camping, select campgrounds remain accessible. "Great little RV park just off the highway and tucked in behind a hotel. You're far enough off the road you don't notice the highway noise," explains Jason S. about Traveland RV Park, one of the few year-round options in the area.
