Dispersed camping options near Mapleton, Utah range from accessible sites with mountain views to high-elevation backcountry locations with stargazing opportunities. The area spans elevations from 4,700 feet in the valley to over 10,000 feet in nearby wilderness areas, creating significant temperature variations between camping locations. Summer temperatures often reach the 90s in lower elevations while higher campgrounds remain 15-20 degrees cooler.
What to do
Fishing at multiple elevations: Silver Lake Backcountry offers both lake and stream fishing opportunities about 40-50 minutes from Provo. According to Bentz E., there are "lots of hikes to do nearby, beautiful views, and place to paddle board, kayak, etc."
Hiking to alpine lakes: For the best tent camping near Mapleton, Utah with hiking access, Red Pine Lake provides exceptional options. The lake requires a 3-4 mile hike with moderate difficulty in the final mile. "The hike up to the top is pretty steep so you'll want to pack light," notes Bentz E., who recommends Red Pine Lake for mid-summer visits to avoid cold overnight temperatures.
Hot springs access: Tent camping spots near Dry Canyon provide convenient access to local hot springs. Jamie M. mentions, "It's a good location and pretty close to the hot springs but not so close that you can smell the sulfur."
What campers like
Mountain views from higher elevation sites: Hobble Right Fork Dispersed camping sits at higher elevation with cooler temperatures and mountain vistas. "I love this canyon. There are so many places to disperse camp as a group or an individual," writes Whitney W., who recommends Hobble Right Fork Dispersed for its scenic value but warns "you will likely encounter cattle" roaming the hills.
Riverside camping spots: Several campers note the value of river proximity. Natalie G. describes Dry Canyon as offering "beautiful riverfront camping" with "spacious and private" sites right by the river, though she notes these are best for "self-contained campers, van campers, or tent campers who don't need water."
Star visibility at night: Higher elevation sites like Dispersed Camping--Mill Hollow/Utah FR054 offer exceptional stargazing. Belinda H. mentions "the sunsets, the moon out during the day, and the stars at night...just incredible!" The site provides a "great escape from the SLC Valley heat" with temperatures typically "20 degrees from the valley" during summer months.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to many dispersed sites requires careful vehicle consideration. At Mill Hollow, Clayton M. advises, "The main road in is fairly easy to navigate but if you venture off the main path you'll want a vehicle with clearance and possibly 4X4."
Wildlife encounters: While camping near Mapleton, prepare for wildlife interactions. Brad B. reports seeing "elk, deer, moose, and black bear in this area" and recommends bringing "a camera and don't leave food in your tent."
Fire restrictions change seasonally: Always verify current fire restrictions before your trip. Ethan H. noted at 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. The views make the drive there worth it, though."
Tips for camping with families
Toilet facilities at developed sites: For families needing bathroom access, look for campgrounds with facilities. Sulphur Campground offers "the cleanest restrooms" according to Justin A., who also appreciated the "great tasting water" and bear-proof dumpsters for trash disposal.
Activities for children: Camp Maple Dell provides more structured options for families. Angela S. describes it as an "idyllic, leafy, beautiful campground" that's "just 5 miles up the Payson Canyon" and features "a lot of leafy trees for shade" with most campsites including "a pavilion and picnic table."
Water recreation access: For family water activities, consider Anderson Park, which Becky J. rates highly as "great for Paddleboarding and fishing." The park accommodates "small or large groups" with "several fire pits, large covered lighted pavilion with three rows of picnic tables."
Tips from RVers
Water access points: For RVers needing to fill tanks, Sulphur Campground provides solutions. Justin A. explains, "We used a 5 gallon bucket and a water transfer pump from Harbor Freight to fill up our fresh tank" and notes while "the camp spots are narrow, the road in/out is narrow," their "25ft trailer seemed to be a max length" though they observed "some 32 ft goosenecks and motor homes there."
Parking considerations for tent camping: When tent camping near the best sites around Mapleton, Utah, parking areas often separate from tent sites. Ash S. notes at Dry Canyon, you "have to carry everything from the parking lot, across the bridge, to your campsite."
