Dispersed camping sites near Mutual Dell, Utah range from 6,400 to 7,400 feet in elevation with significant temperature variations between day and night. Most forest roads accessing primitive camping areas close during winter months, typically from late October through April, depending on snow conditions. Camping in this area requires preparation for rapidly changing weather patterns, even during summer months.
What to do
Hiking to glacial lakes: Timpooneke Campground provides direct access to trails leading to alpine scenery. "This campground is well maintained and nestled into some nice pine trees in view of the backside of Mount Timpanogos, it is divided into 3 areas, one of which has horse corrals," notes Michael J. The trails from camp lead to several destinations including Scout Falls, approximately 1 mile from the trailhead.
Paddle sports on nearby reservoirs: Granite Flat Campground serves as a base for water activities at nearby Tibble Fork Reservoir. "The area and scenery were gorgeous! The hosts were lovely and helpful. The water was cool and there were tons of people there with paddle boards, canoos, tents, and dogs," reports Ash S. Non-motorized watercraft are permitted on most reservoir areas.
Rock climbing access: Little Mill Campground offers quick access to sport climbing routes. "We've been up this canyon many times before, mostly for climbing. This canyon holds some of the most historic sport routes in America as some of the hardest routes in the country, at the time, were established here in the late 80's and early 90's," explains Alan B. Routes for beginners through advanced climbers are available within a 5-10 minute walk from camp.
What campers like
Proximity to water features: Little Mill Campground offers sites adjacent to American Fork Creek. "We loved Little Mill! It's the perfect campground. It has the smell of pine trees, a babbling brook, and it is just down the road from Timpanogos Cave National Monument," shares Stacy R. Sites nearest to the mountain side provide more distance from road noise.
Quick overnight options: Nunns Park provides convenient camping in Provo Canyon. "Nunns is a great place to go if you don't have time to go look for a spot. It's a quick drive up Provo canyon. The downside it it is close to a bike/running path so if you want to sleep in it might not happen," explains Jonathan Y. Sites include river access, though privacy is limited.
High elevation escapes: The Spruces Campground in Big Cottonwood Canyon sits at higher elevation with cooler temperatures. "Right up Big Cottonwood Canyon, this campground has the advantage of being up the canyon so you feel far away from the city, but close enough that you could go on a work night and still make it to the office the next day," mentions Jenny W. The gate closes late at night, requiring campers to walk in if arriving after hours.
What you should know
Road closures impact access: Mt. Timpanogos campground and surrounding areas have seasonal limitations. "Behind Mount Timp along the 92 passed Sundance and Aspen Grove is a beautiful area full aspen and fir. Plenty of room for dispersed camping. I know it is free for one or two nights. The road to it is closed during winter/spring," reports Helen A. Forest Service typically opens higher elevation roads by late May.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds fill completely during summer weekends. "Book EARLY! This campsite is always full," warns Andrea P. about Granite Flat. Similarly, at Timpooneke, "we only saw 2 with the W designation and everything else had a reserved sign up," reported Stacy D. regarding walk-up availability.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects several campgrounds. "My only reason this campground didn't get 5 stars is due to the horrible road noise. I seriously thought I was at a truck stop off the interstate. Honking and racing cars until 3am just ruined it," notes Myrna G. about Little Mill. Sites deeper in campgrounds typically offer more buffer from traffic sounds.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Tanners Flat Campground offers natural surroundings for wildlife observation. "September/early October gives cooler temperatures and less crowds, and we got to see some lovely fall colors. The camp hosts were excellent as well," says Sara M. Fall months provide better wildlife viewing with fewer crowds.
Swimming areas: Jordanelle State Park provides developed swimming areas with safety features. "Stayed here for a weekend getaway and loved it. Great place close to SLC and park city and for the most part it was surprisingly quiet," reports Angie G. The reservoir offers designated swimming zones separate from boating areas.
On-site activities: Mountain Valley RV Resort contains multiple recreational facilities. "This RV park is by far the nicest park I've ever stayed at. The facilities are very new and always clean, nice big private restrooms with showers, two laundry facilities, two hot tubs and two pools, basketball and other gaming courts," describes Zoe M. Structured activities provide options during inclement weather.
Tips from RVers
Utility connections: Lakeside RV Campground provides full hookups with reliable services. "We enjoyed a one night stay. Pull through sites with grass between. Pool was very nice. Cute little store," says Denise P. Sites include water, electric and sewer connections with level concrete pads.
Height and length restrictions: Forest Service campgrounds have varying size limitations for rigs. "We stayed in a back in spot which was very spacious and we had a good distance from our neighbor," notes Erin A. about Lakeside RV Campground. Mountain roads leading to forest campgrounds often have tight turns and overhead clearance issues.
Weather preparations: Seasonal temperature variations require planning. "If you're looking for a little more privacy from neighbors this may not be your best bet," comments Sydney Z. about Granite Flat. Higher elevation campgrounds experience frost even during summer months, requiring additional heating or cooling equipment depending on season.
