Tent campsites near Mona, Utah extend beyond established sites into the surrounding wilderness areas and national forest lands. The region sits at elevations ranging from 4,500 to 9,000 feet, creating distinct camping microclimates throughout the year. Weather patterns shift dramatically from desert conditions at lower elevations to alpine environments in the higher campgrounds, with summer temperatures varying by up to 20 degrees between sites.
What to do
Hiking from camp: Hobble Right Fork Dispersed camping area connects to trails with views of Spanish Fork and Provo peaks. As camper Jakob H. notes, "A great view of both Spanish Fork and Provo peaks. There are a few places to go behind growth for more privacy if desired."
Fishing opportunities: Diamond Fork River provides accessible fishing from Dry Canyon campsites. "Really good fishing in both the fifth water river and Diamond Fork," according to Brad B., who adds that campers can expect to see "elk, deer, moose, and black bear in this area so bring a camera and don't leave food in your tent."
Sand recreation: For unique terrain, BLM Little Sahara RA - White Sands Campground offers sand-based activities. Carolynn D. reports, "The Stars were beautiful and the sand was soft and fun to walk in. We set up two tents and thoroughly enjoyed the visit."
What campers like
River proximity: At Dry Canyon, campsites are positioned near moving water without flooding concerns. Ethan H. describes the experience: "You're a perfect distance from the river so you can listen to it as you fall asleep, but you don't have to worry about floating away."
Stargazing conditions: The minimal light pollution at Hobble Right Fork Dispersed creates exceptional night sky viewing. "Hardly any light pollution, so the stars were amazing," confirms Ethan H., who visited in October 2020.
Shade coverage: Camp Maple Dell provides relief from summer heat with its tree canopy. Angela S. describes it as "just 5 miles up the Payson Canyon, has a lot of leafy trees for shade, most campsites have a pavilion and picnic table."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many dispersed sites requires navigation of unpaved roads. Whitney W. cautions about Hobble Right Fork: "You will have to drive a dirt road that is less than fair at times. You won't need high clearance but a good suspension or airing down will help."
Livestock presence: Free-range cattle roam throughout much of the camping areas east of Mona. "There are so many places to disperse camp as a group or an individual. One thing to know is that you will likely encounter cattle. They roam all over the hills," notes Whitney W.
Campground discrepancies: Reviews for some sites differ from online descriptions. For Cottonwood Campground, connie C. points out: "Many of the pictures posted here are not of this campground. This is a free campground located in central Utah outside of the town of Nephi."
Tips for camping with families
Group accommodations: Camp Maple Dell supports larger family gatherings with spacious sites. Michelle B. shares: "This camp can be rented by camp ground for $150 per night. Multiple tents fit per site. We had 6 tents, and had room for several more."
Wildlife viewing: Schedule early mornings or evenings for wildlife spotting opportunities. "I have seen elk, deer, moose, and black bear in this area so bring a camera," advises Brad B. about camping in the area.
Water play options: Some camps offer stream access for children. Ash S. describes Dry Canyon: "River steps away. River not too cold. Do have to carry everything from the parking lot, across the bridge, to your campsite."
Tips from RVers
Length limitations: Wasatch National Forest Sulphur Campground has tight access roads for larger vehicles. Justin A. cautions: "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."
Water access: Many campgrounds lack hookups but offer alternative water solutions. Justin A. describes his solution at Sulphur Campground: "Great tasting water, we used a 5 gallon bucket and a water transfer pump from Harbor Freight to fill up our fresh tank."
Temperature fluctuations: Higher elevation tent sites near Mona experience significant temperature drops. Jakob H. warns about Hobble Right Fork camping area: "It is at a fairly high elevation so nights will be cold."
