Tent camping near Lindon, Utah ranges from dispersed locations requiring lengthy hikes to more accessible sites along canyon roads. The Wasatch Mountains that surround this area reach elevations of 10,000+ feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night. Most backcountry camping spots require permits and have specific distance requirements from water sources and trails.
What to do
Paddleboarding opportunities: Anderson Park offers convenient water access for paddleboarding enthusiasts. "Great for Paddleboarding and fishing," notes one camper. The park's proximity to residential areas makes it a practical option for day activities that extend into overnight camping.
Hiking to alpine terrain: The 2.2-mile trail near Kimball Campground leads to Silver Lake. "There's a trail head that leads off to about 3 or 4 different trails I did trail 173 it was 2.5miles and it took you up so you have an amazing elevated view of the mountains and lake," shares a visitor who spent three days exploring the area.
Wildlife viewing: Hobble Right Fork Dispersed camping area provides excellent opportunities to spot local wildlife. "There's lots of wildlife as well. I personally like the mix of meadows and trees," reports one camper. The combination of open areas and forested sections creates diverse habitats that attract various animal species.
What campers like
Overnight fishing access: Many campers appreciate the fishing opportunities near Millcreek Canyon Backcountry. "Everytime we come here we also see moose and deer. Best time is definitely fall," notes one regular visitor. The streams throughout the canyon provide accessible fishing spots away from more crowded locations.
Star visibility: The elevation and distance from urban areas create excellent night sky viewing conditions. At Hobble Right Fork, one camper reported "hardly any light pollution, so the stars were amazing," making it ideal for astrophotography or simple stargazing.
Trail running access: Millcreek Canyon offers excellent options for trail runners looking to camp near their routes. "Millcreek Canyon is home to some wonderful trails that can be accessed by foot or bike. Although the canyon offers many hiking trails, the main use of the trails seems to be for trail running," explains a regular visitor.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Access to many camping areas demands appropriate vehicles. For Silver Lake Backcountry, "you're definitely going to need 4WD and high clearance because the roads leading up to the campsite are filled with ruts and holes." Another camper confirms: "You do have to drive through a small river and must camp half a mile from the lake."
Seasonal closures: Many camping areas have restricted seasons due to weather conditions. For Millcreek Canyon, "Camping doesn't open until July 1st so take that into account." Snow can block access to higher elevation sites well into summer.
Livestock presence: Dispersed camping areas often overlap with grazing land. At Hobble Right Fork, campers note "you will likely encounter cattle. They roam all over the hills" and there's "lots of free ranges cows along the roads so be cautious."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible day-use options: Lake Blanche Trail provides a manageable backcountry experience for families with older children. "Great hike to the lake!" reports one visitor, making it suitable for a challenging day hike that can extend to overnight camping for families with hiking experience.
Dog-friendly locations: Families camping with pets should choose sites accordingly. For Millcreek Canyon, a visitor notes this is "one of the only canyons that allows dogs!" This makes it particularly valuable for family camping when pets are part of the adventure.
Water play opportunities: Several locations offer stream access for children. At Millcreek Canyon, campers report "We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river. Just a fun time."
Tips from RVers
Length limitations: Wasatch National Forest Sulphur Campground accommodates smaller RVs with some limitations. "The camp spots are narrow, the road in/out is narrow. Our 25ft trailer seemed to be a max length, but there were some 32 ft goosenecks and motor homes there," reports one RVer who successfully camped with a hybrid trailer.
Water availability: RVers should plan for limited water access. At Sulphur Campground, one camper notes "Great tasting water, we used a 5 gallon bucket and a water transfer pump from Harbor Freight to fill up our fresh tank," showing resourcefulness is needed even at established campgrounds.
Alternative parking methods: At some locations like Dutchman Mine Flats, standard RV camping isn't possible. "You cannot car-camp as there is wooden fence blocking off the parking area," reports a visitor, indicating tent camping is the only option in many desirable locations near Lindon.
