Squaw Peak Road Dispersed Camping offers free camping sites north of Provo for tents and smaller RVs. The area features several clearings along a dirt road that becomes progressively rougher past Squaw Peak. Most sites are located in meadows or near wooded areas, with elevations around 6,400-7,400 feet providing cooler temperatures in summer. Multiple camping spots have established fire rings, though fire restrictions apply during dry months.
What to do
Hike Timp trails: Several campgrounds provide access to Mount Timpanogos trails with varying difficulty levels. At Timpooneke Campground, "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," shares John M.
Paddle in nearby reservoirs: Small lakes near campgrounds offer non-motorized water activities. Ash S. reports from Granite Flat Campground: "The water was cool and there were tons of people there with paddle boards, canoos, tents, and dogs."
Explore Provo River access: The river provides fishing and cooling relief during hot months. At Hope Campground, campers note: "There are a few trails you can take your kids on around the campground. No atvs are allowed in, but there are dirt roads to ride near hope. There are a lot of trees so shade is plentiful."
Visit Timpanogos Cave: Multiple campgrounds sit within easy driving distance of this national monument. A visitor to Mt. Timpanogos Campground mentions: "The campsite was close to the trailhead to go up to the caves on top of mount Timpanogas. It was a wonderful experience. The cave tour really is a must see even if you just day trip up to it."
What campers like
Proximity to towns: Many campgrounds offer wilderness settings while remaining close to Provo and Lindon. From Hope Campground, Causley S. notes: "For only 25min from downtown provo, this is a wonderful place to go for a night. Super kind camp host and well maintained roads."
Cooling river sounds: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Lindon feature stream or river access. At Nunns Park, Helen A. appreciates that "The river is right there and makes some beautiful yet subtle white noise. It is in provo canyon and the cliffs on either side are very impressive."
Shaded campsites: Tree cover provides relief from summer heat. According to Justin J. at Granite Flat, "Granite flats is just a few miles up AF canyon and our site was very quiet and secluded. There are two reservoirs close by in Tibble Fork and Silverlake flat that are both beautiful."
Varied terrain options: The area offers everything from established campgrounds to primitive sites. At Squaw Peak Road Dispersed, Spencer L. found that "Beautiful rolling meadows with forest on either side add beauty to the area with majestic mountains in the background."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Andrea P. warns about Granite Flat: "Book EARLY! This campsite is always full."
Bug activity: Several campgrounds report significant mosquito populations, especially near water. At Utah Lake State Park, one camper directly states: "There are lots, and lot of bug so bring bug spray."
Road conditions: Access to dispersed sites can be challenging. Jeff P. shares about Squaw Peak Road: "Dirt road was a little rough, bumpy, but we made it just fine. I wouldn't take a car up but any SUV or Van would make it."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience highway or visitor noise. At Nunns Park, Michael L. mentions: "Bike path and highway noise can be distracting."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal bans are common during dry months. Jeni N. notes about Squaw Peak: "There were fire pits but at this point in time, there was a ban so we didn't start one."
Tips for camping with families
Look for play spaces: Some campgrounds offer activity areas for children. Brad B. shares about Little Mill Campground: "There is a huge spot of grass that you can play sports or baseball on. Can't remember the site we had but there was a huge rock that was fun for the scouts to climb on."
Consider water proximity: Streams provide natural entertainment but require supervision. At Little Mill, "It is small and next to a little river. Has lots of spots for rvs and tent camping. Camp hosts are great," says Sara D.
Check site spacing: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. Sydney Z. notes about Granite Flat: "I really enjoyed camping here with a group of friends. Each camping area is nice, however, it is very very busy and pretty tight quarters."
Watch for wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds report active wildlife. At Hope Campground, one visitor warns: "The Squirrels are pretty aggressive getting really close and jumping on our table while we ate, several managed to chew holes in our our gear."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many forest roads have tight turns and size restrictions. Juan G. cautions about Squaw Peak Road: "Getting here can be challenging, very steep incline, tight corners, and some spots have bumpy dirt roads. Perfect for tent camping and small trailers, spots are not big enough for bigger RVs and trailers."
Full hookup options: RVers seeking amenities should consider established campgrounds. At Lakeside RV Campground, Robert O. found: "Nice level sites pull through FHU grassy spot between sites."
Gate timing awareness: Some campgrounds restrict nighttime access. Brad B. warns about Granite Flat: "Make sure you get camped and in because they lock the gate coming into campground at 11PM and you have to hike in."
Proximity to dog-friendly activities: Many pet-friendly campgrounds near Lindon offer walking trails. Kyler N. notes about Nunns Park: "Really close to the beautiful Bridal Veil Falls."
