Tent camping near Kaysville, Utah provides access to diverse topography ranging from 4,300 to over 9,500 feet in elevation within a 30-mile radius. The region experiences wide temperature fluctuations, with average summer nighttime temperatures dropping to 45-50°F even when daytime temperatures reach 85-90°F. Most backcountry camping sites require water filtration systems, as natural water sources need treatment before consumption.
What to do
Hiking with views: At Red Pine Lake, campers access stunning alpine terrain via a moderately difficult 3-4 mile trail. "I also hiked up to the upper red pine lake, which is a very steep climb. The trail is unmarked and nearly impossible to follow (at least for a first-timer), so it requires some creativity and bushwacking/rock hopping to get up there," notes Justin C.
Fishing opportunities: Many lakes in the region offer fishing for trout species. Both upper and lower Red Pine Lakes contain large trout populations, though swimming is prohibited as these lakes serve as drinking water reservoirs.
Wildlife viewing: Millcreek Canyon provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities during overnight stays. According to Alan B., "Everytime we come here we also see moose and deer. Best time is definitely fall."
Winter recreation: For cold-weather camping enthusiasts, winter access provides unique experiences. The Port Ramp Marina area offers "a fantastic spot to go in the winter... The lake will freeze over enough to walk on or fish on. There were plenty of people ice fishing when we went," reports Brendan A.
What campers like
Alpine views: Many campsites feature mountain panoramas. At Silver Lake Backcountry, "To the south you have a fantastic view of the Timpanogos Massif looming over the lake. To the west you'll see Box Elder Peak and to the north is Dry Canyon and the Alpine Ridge," explains Alan B.
Solitude on weekdays: Most camping areas experience lower usage midweek. One camper at Red Pine Lake observed that "during the week is the best time to camp as it's likely you'll be the only overnight camper."
Accessible adventure: Short hiking distances to backcountry sites make overnight trips manageable for many experience levels. Chloe B. notes that Red Pine Lake worked well for her first backpacking trip in a decade, stating it was "Peaceful camping even on a Saturday night!"
Fall colors: Autumn camping provides spectacular foliage displays. According to Ethan H., "the fall colors during the day and the stars during the night were spectacular!" at Silver Lake.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Many camping areas prohibit fires year-round or seasonally. Red Pine Lake prohibits fires entirely due to watershed regulations. According to Derek E., "No fires or pets are allowed given that Little Cottonwood Canyon is considered Watershed. So plan on cooking with a backpacking stove/cooker."
Limited access roads: Some campsites require specific vehicles. For Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo, Locoty C. notes "the road up ain't bad at all," but Brian C. advises that the area is "Not for large RVs. Our 17 ft trailer with 4x4 was tricky to get into the spot because the loop was so small."
Weather variations: Alpine areas experience rapid weather changes and significant wind. One camper at Monte Cristo noted "it can get quite blustery" at higher elevations.
Seasonal limitations: Several campgrounds have restricted seasons. Sharon H. warns about Millcreek Canyon: "Warning - road is closed 3.5 miles into the park before where camping spots were indicated. No notice on when it would reopen."
Minimum distances: Regulations often require specific distances from features. At Millcreek Canyon, campers must be "1/2 mile off the road and at least 200 ft from developed areas and water" according to Dan G.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Cook Campsite provides walk-in tent sites with minimal hiking required, making it accessible for children. Adam Z. shares, "This was a great place to give my 5 year old a taste of backpacking."
Water activities: Several camping areas offer kid-friendly water access. Kelli R. from Millcreek Canyon recommends: "We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river. Just a fun time."
Wildlife education: Family campers often encounter wildlife, creating learning opportunities. Ryan noted that Split Rock Bay has "Good hiking trails with great views and lots of animals to see."
Preparation for temperature swings: Families should pack appropriate clothing layers, as nighttime temperatures drop significantly, often 30-40°F below daytime highs.
Tips from RVers
4WD requirements: Several camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. Michelle B. explains that Silver Lake area is "only accessible by 4 wheel drive. Must cross a creek with 12"-18" of water at least once and up to 4 times depending on which camp site you choose."
Site size limitations: Most dispersed camping spots accommodate smaller rigs only. At Hobble, site sizes are limited, but Becky J. still found it to be a "Great campsite I will definitely come back."
Early arrival recommended: Popular dispersed camping areas fill quickly, especially on weekends. Bryce R. advises: "If you leave on Friday plan to get there by 3 at the latest. Spots fill quick."
Seasonal road closures: Mountain roads often close seasonally, affecting RV access. Many areas around Monte Cristo and Millcreek Canyon have winter closures or reduced access during spring runoff.
