Tent camping around Mounthaven, Utah ranges from 6,000 to 10,000 feet elevation with seasonal access typically limited from late May through early October due to snowpack. Camping options vary significantly based on watershed regulations, with Little Cottonwood Canyon areas requiring permits and prohibiting pets and fires. Forest roads accessing more remote tent sites often close during winter months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Silver Lake Backcountry, both the lake and reservoir offer excellent fishing spots. "Only 40-50 minutes away from Provo, UT area so easy to get away for a quick day or two of camping. Lots of hikes to do nearby, beautiful views, and place to paddle board, kayak, etc.," reports Bentz E.
Trail running: The Millcreek Canyon Backcountry area provides extensive trail networks popular with runners. "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," notes Sean H.
Alpine hiking: For more challenging terrain, hikers can access multiple lakes and peaks from a single drainage. "Wonderful place to backpack up to during the week. Can access 3 different beautiful lakes from this drainage and 2 beautiful peaks!" shares Shilah M. about Red Pine Lake.
Water recreation: Several locations offer paddleboarding and kayaking options during summer months. "We spent our afternoons paddleboarding on Silver Lake Reservoir," reports Michelle B., who accessed the area via 4WD.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: The Mill Hollow area offers increasing solitude at higher elevations. "Since we discovered this place back in May, we can't stop coming here! It's the best weekend getaway. The sunsets, the moon out during the day, and the stars at night...just incredible!" writes Belinda H. about Dispersed Camping at Mill Hollow.
Wildlife viewing: Many backcountry campers report regular wildlife encounters. "Everytime we come here we also see moose and deer. Best time is definitely fall," notes Alan B. about Millcreek Canyon.
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation camping provides relief from valley heat. "Great escape from the SLC Valley heat...a short 1.5 hour drive and temp drops 20 degrees from the valley," reports Belinda H. about Mill Hollow.
Weekday solitude: For those with flexible schedules, weekday camping offers significantly more privacy. "During the week is the best time to camp as it's likely you'll be the only overnight camper," explains Alan B. about Red Pine Lake.
What you should know
High-clearance vehicle requirements: Many dispersed camping areas 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," warns Ethan H. about Silver Lake Backcountry.
Campfire regulations: Fire restrictions vary by location and season, with watershed areas typically prohibiting fires entirely. "The campsite spots are hidden within trees up the dirt road just past Silver Lake flats on the dirt road. The dirt road gets rough and rocky, but is driveable," notes Emily T. about Kimball Campground.
Seasonal closures: Many roads and campgrounds have limited operating seasons. "Be careful there is a 5$ per car fee sneaking at the entrance. Pretty good trails on the way up but like in the Title I wasn't able to make it," warns Conner about Millcreek Canyon's seasonal closure through June.
Watershed restrictions: Areas within watershed boundaries have special regulations. "No fires or pets are allowed given that Little Cottonwood Canyon is considered Watershed. So plan on cooking with a backpacking stove/cooker," advises Derek E.
Tips for camping with families
Group-friendly sites: Some areas accommodate larger family gatherings better than others. "This park allows for camping and accommodates small or large groups. Several fire pits, large covered lighted pavilion with three rows of picnic tables," explains Michelle B. about Anderson Park.
Water play options: Several camping areas feature streams or small lakes perfect for children. "We love Millcreek Canyon for camping, hiking, or even just going up for dinner at their day use spots. Pet friendly. One of our families favorite canyons. We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river," shares Kelli R.
Dusty conditions: Be prepared for challenging cleaning conditions. "The campsites are beautiful, and within walking distance to the trailhead to hike the 2.2 mile hike up to Silver Lake. Loved camping here, only complaint is the dirt is very chalky and dusty, and keeping your gear clean is not really an option here," warns Emily T.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most primitive tent camping sites near Mounthaven cannot accommodate RVs. "The drive up is beautiful but there is actually no drive in camping. Camping doesn't open until July 1st so take that into account," cautions Ryan G. about attempting to access Millcreek Canyon with larger vehicles.
Vehicle size restrictions: Roads to many dispersed camping areas have limitations. "You can't drive to the coordinates, you have to park at the uppermost parking lot for Silver Flat and hike up to a camping spot," notes Cortlan S. about Lake Blanche Trail Backcountry Camp access issues.
