Tent camping near New Harmony, Utah positions campers at approximately 5,300 feet elevation, where desert landscapes transition to pine forests. The area experiences dramatic temperature shifts between seasons, with summer daytime highs reaching 90-100°F while dropping to the 50s at night. Winter camping requires preparation for occasional snow at higher elevations, particularly in the Pine Valley Mountain Wilderness that rises to over 10,000 feet.
What to do
Climbing adventures: Lambs Knoll Climbing Site offers tent camping with direct access to popular climbing routes. The site includes eight designated walk-in tent spots situated near Zion National Park boundaries. One visitor noted, "This campsite was very quiet except on nights when a stargazing guide group came to meet up there around 9/9:30 PM. They weren't super loud and only met there and then left shortly after."
Creek exploration: Kolob Road BLM Dispersed provides streamside camping with creek access for cooling off during hot months. Located near the Left Fork Subway trailhead, this area serves as a practical base camp. A camper mentioned, "Just 8 mins from the Left Fork subway trail head makes this spot ideal for those looking for an easy early start. Nearby river gives you that ambient sound to drown out the world."
Stargazing sessions: Oak Grove Campground sits in a pine grove away from city lights, offering excellent night sky viewing for $5 per night. The campground features eight sites but requires a drive on graded gravel roads. According to one camper, "Road is graded gravel but is steep and narrow access and the 8 sites are small. Travel trailers and large RVs are not recommended."
What campers like
Privacy at different elevations: Tent sites at higher elevations provide better separation between campers. At Mitt Moody Campground, site #5 offers an elevated position with additional space. A camper described it as "a huge site with some shade. Campground is part of the Pine Valley recreation area. If you camp there you do not have to pay their entrance fee just pay for your site which is $19 dollars a night."
Wildlife encounters: Many New Harmony area campsites provide opportunities to observe deer, lizards, and birds. A camper at Oak Grove Campground noted, "Tiny adorable lizards everywhere. Beautiful colorful birds are abundant." Wildlife sightings are most common at dawn and dusk.
Water features: Several campgrounds offer creekside settings that provide natural cooling and background sounds. At Kolob Terrace Road camping area, a camper mentioned, "There is a little river that is so nice to go to sleep to and it is very quiet."
What you should know
Vehicle access limitations: Many dispersed camping areas near New Harmony restrict larger vehicles. At Leeds Canyon Dispersed #1, a reviewer warned, "As someone else mentioned it is good for rv only on the first four or so. After that we wondered how we were going to turn around."
Bug activity varies by season: Insects are particularly active during warmer months near water sources. A camper at Oak Grove Campground reported, "RIDICULOUS BUGS AFTER DARK. Saw a camel spider, lots of gnats, got a huge spider bite right away." Bringing insect repellent is essential from May through September.
Temperature fluctuations: The desert climate creates significant day-night temperature differences. Many campsites have limited shade, making midday heat challenging. A camper at Leeds Canyon noted, "Cool spot with red cliffs and red sand all around... It was also very windy at night (but not during the day) when I went."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation opportunities: The Veyo Pool at Crawdad Canyon offers swimming options for families seeking relief from summer heat. A visitor commented, "Awesome campground for families with many amenities and activities such as pool, climbing, concessions, showers and more."
Wildlife viewing for kids: Young campers enjoy spotting small wildlife at many campsites. Schedule morning and evening nature walks when animals are most active. One camper mentioned, "Lots of kids and families in the pool, most of whom clean up after themselves. A great little gem for climbers and families."
Campsite selection strategy: For tent camping with children, prioritize sites with natural features that provide activities. At Kolob Road BLM, a camper noted the area has "About 6 spots, well separated by trees and distance" which offers space for children to explore safely.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions on forest roads: Many campgrounds near New Harmony have strict limitations for larger vehicles. At Kolob Road BLM Dispersed, a reviewer cautioned, "Small tight area to get into...strongly do NOT recommend TTs or any RV at this BLM spot due to steep downhill rd and no turnarounds! Tent or van nomads only due to no tt turnarounds!"
Parking and setup considerations: Some areas require careful planning for larger vehicles. A visitor to Leeds Canyon Dispersed advised, "Site #1 has a back in angle that needs you to be heading back down the road..if a TT." Scouting sites before attempting to park larger vehicles prevents difficult extraction situations.
Road conditions vary seasonally: Gravel and dirt access roads can become challenging after rain or snow. Leeds Canyon Dispersed #9 has limited cell service, making it difficult to call for assistance if stuck. One camper noted the site is "on a short dead end rd spur, above main rd and somewhat screened. Cell service is poor to none at this site."
