Camping options near Hyrum, Utah range from primitive dispersed sites to full-service campgrounds across multiple elevations from 4,700 to 7,500 feet. The region's camping season typically runs from mid-May through October, with some lower elevation sites open year-round. Most campsites sit along creeks or near Hyrum Reservoir, offering water access during summer months when temperatures average 85-90°F during the day and 50-60°F at night.
What to do
Mountain biking in Green Canyon: Access numerous trails from Green Canyon Dispersed Campground with options for all skill levels. "Popular trail with bikers. Lots of traffic even late at night," notes CrookedSnake, who camped with friends and found varying cell service strength via multiple carriers.
Winter recreation: Experience groomed cross-country ski trails at Green Canyon during winter months. "In the winter months the road is closed, and is groomed by a local group named Nordic United. They groom it for cross country skiing several times a week and after every good storm. Trail is also used during the winter for snowshoeing, as well as Fat Tire snow biking," explains Steven E.
Waterfall hiking: Find several canyon waterfall trails near Pioneer Campground. "Just to the north of the campground is a trailhead for Richards Hollow where you can see a very pretty waterfall," says Derek E. about nearby Friendship Campground.
Fishing access: Cast a line in Blacksmith Fork Canyon's streams and pools. "Super dog friendly and great fishing at this location!" reports Becky J. about camping at Friendship Campground.
What campers like
Shade coverage: Many campers value the extensive tree canopy at Friendship Campground. "Friendship Campground is situated underneath a large grove of Maple Trees that provide the most beautiful scattered sunbeam shade you'll ever see!" says Derek E.
Riverside sites: Campers appreciate direct water access at several campgrounds. "There is a small stream that pools up right by the campsites," writes Kylee S. about Friendship Campground, while Jordan H. notes about Pioneer Campground: "We stayed at site 4 which only had two sites next to it (one on each side) but there were so many trees that we had plenty of privacy."
Privacy between sites: Box Elder Campground offers more secluded sites. "The campground is clean and the hosts are great. The campsites feel very private," says Jenn. Morgan G. adds: "Spots are nestled into fairly dense trees and brush, providing some privacy for tents."
Wildlife viewing: The canyons around Hyrum provide opportunities to observe local fauna. "Birds in caves in side of valley," notes Joanna about Green Canyon. Meredith S. shares about Box Elder Campground: "We usually camp in very back by the farm so very quiet. Heard coyotes and lots of owl pellets around camp."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some dispersed sites require permits. "Permit fee is $10 for 3 days," says Joanna about Green Canyon Dispersed Campground. Bring cash for these fees or check websites for payment options.
Seasonal access limitations: Most campgrounds have restricted seasons. "Road to dispersed camping is closed Dec 1 - April 15," reports Joanna about Green Canyon. Friendship Campground is typically open "May 18 to September 9."
Evening noise levels: Some campgrounds experience evening activity. "This Canyon is also notorious for high school Gatherings," warns Steven E. about Green Canyon. Another camper, BLURDVSN, adds: "We were woken up at midnight by explosions. I'm assuming they were kids down the road drinking and having fun, but they were setting off mortars at midnight on a Wednesday."
Capacity limitations: Sites fill quickly during peak season. Conner notes about Green Canyon: "I think all the spots filled by 7pm some 50 people there that night." Many campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early during summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Stream play access: Many children enjoy water features at North Fork County Park. "My husband and I recently took our toddler and infant here and had a blast. They found joy in simply throwing pebbles in the creek and making mud," shares Morgan L.
Group camping options: North Fork offers spaces for larger family gatherings. "Our family has our anual family reunion in Mustang Flats every summer, CW8 & CW9 are great for 5 families because they're connected by a little road," writes Fale L.
Clean facilities: Many parents appreciate the well-maintained restrooms. "There is a bathroom in between the 4 group sites. It has flushing toilets, and was regularly cleaned by the hosts," reports Anastasia E. about Box Elder Campground.
Age-appropriate hiking trails: Look for shorter trails with rewards for younger hikers. "There's a short waterfall hike, but also a long hike that will take you up to Ben Lomond Peak & cut across to Willard Peak," explains Morgan L. about North Fork, offering options for different age groups.
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: Watch for tight turns in canyons with larger rigs. "I wouldn't recommend bringing large trailers… the loop the campsite is located on has a rather tight turn that can be difficult for the larger trailers to navigate," warns Derek E. about Friendship Campground.
Level pad availability: Hyrum State Park Campground offers the most level RV sites. "All the sites are paved (even the dry camping sites) and level. Grassy and shady on most sites," notes Brenda L.
Gate closure timing: Plan evening activities around campground gate closures. "It is totally fenced and gated. The gates close at 10pm and open at 6am," explains Brenda L. about Hyrum State Park, an important consideration for those planning evening activities outside the campground.
