Equestrian camping options in this region have limited dedicated facilities. Most sites near Midvale, Utah require bringing portable corrals or high-lines for horses. The area sits at elevations between 4,300-7,400 feet with significant temperature variations between seasons. Terrain ranges from desert valleys to alpine forests, creating diverse camping environments that accommodate different types of equestrian setups.
What to do
Hiking with views: At Timpooneke, trails lead to panoramic vistas within minutes of your campsite. "Timpooneke provides easy access to one of the best hikes. Mt Timpanogous provides some stellar views of the backcountry and the valley below. On the way, stop and checkout Scout Falls," notes reviewer Shad G.
Water activities: Paddle in multiple reservoirs near Granite Flat campground. "My husband and I recently moved to Oklahoma where there isn't much camping. This campsite was near Tibble Fork which is somewhere I have been wanting to go and explore for a long time. We were able to paddle board which was a blast!" shares Kaitlin R.
Wildlife viewing: Observe bison and other animals at Antelope Island. "An amazing place to kick back, relax, and hangout with bison. They walk up and graze through the campsites which is a beautiful thing to wake up to," reports John C. about his experience at Bridger Bay.
What campers like
River sounds: The constant flow of water creates natural white noise at many sites. "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," according to Helen A. who stayed at Nunns Park.
Stargazing: Clear mountain air provides exceptional night sky viewing at higher elevation sites. "There were a few other campers, but there were a few others. You don't have to worry about the bugs, being it's December," notes Susan R. about winter camping at Bridger Bay.
Easy city access: Several campgrounds provide natural settings without long drives. "This is one of the closest campgrounds to Provo. It is quick and easy for the kind of trip to just get away but it won't feel like you are backwoods because of the smallness of the park and closeness to a very busy highway through Provo Canyon," explains Kyler N. about Nunns Park.
What you should know
Seasonal bugs: Biting insects can be intense during certain months. "The only downside was that this year there were an obscene amount of mosquitoes," warns Ash S. about Granite Flat.
Road conditions: Many backcountry sites require appropriate vehicles. "You're definitely going to need 4WD and high clearance because the roads leading up to the campsite are filled with ruts and holes," cautions Ethan H. about Silver Lake Backcountry.
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer months. "Be aware that this campsite reservations for the weekend fill up quick. I checked in late May and every weekend until September was already booked," advises Ash S. about Granite Flat.
Wind exposure: Some areas lack natural windbreaks. "The campsites provide 0 protection from the wind. We were in a tent and the wind shook our tent back and forth all night. No sleep," reports Caroline N. about her White Rock Bay experience.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and open spaces: Willow Park Campground offers multiple recreation options. "This is a great place to camp within the city of Lehi. It is close to the water and in the hot summer it is a fun spot for a night get away. Big camp sites for trailers or tents and nice bathrooms," says Brad B.
Climbing opportunities: Natural features provide safe exploration for kids. "Can't remember the site we had but there was a huge rock that was fun for the scouts to climb on. Really nice spots with lots of trees and shade," reports Brad B. about Granite Flat.
Wildlife education: Turn animal sightings into learning moments. "We saw fox that came right up to our tent and lots of bison close by. Quiet place," notes Whitney K. about her White Rock Bay experience.
Water safety: Plan ahead for creek crossings to campsites. "Must cross a creek with 12"-18" of water at least once and up to 4 times depending on which camp site you choose," advises Michelle B. about accessing Silver Lake.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most mountain sites have minimal services. "Cheep place to stay. Nice simple camp ground no hook up but a good place to stay if visiting Salt Lake City and don't want to pay a lot for a camp ground big rig friendly!" explains Salvy F. about Willow Park Campground.
Site dimensions: Check length limitations before arriving. "Sites are small and primarily tent sites. There are a couple sites which would accommodate a small 16 ft trailer. We had to unhook and park diagonal to fit small trailer and short truck," advises Daniel L. about Mount Timpanogos Campground.
Overflow parking considerations: Some sites have challenging backup requirements. "Challenging back-in for our 30' ft travel trailer. Very cramped spot. Fortunately, we arrived before neighbors on both side did," reports Char P. about Mountain Shadows RV Park.
