Rustic camping near North Salt Lake, Utah offers primitive sites with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 feet across the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during the day while dropping to 50-60°F at night, creating significant temperature swings between day and night camping conditions. Seasonal access varies dramatically, with many higher elevation dispersed sites inaccessible until late June or early July due to snowpack.
What to do
Alpine fishing opportunities: At Pittsburg Lake Dispersed, campers can catch trout in a small alpine lake after a 1.5-mile hike with 1,500 feet of elevation gain. "The lake is approximately .33 miles around and has trout for fishing. There is even an old homestead cabin to explore," reports one visitor.
Paddle boarding on mountain lakes: Several alpine lakes permit non-motorized watercraft activities during summer months. "I was able to relax and float and tool around. You can't go very far but being on the water is always a good time," notes a camper who carried an inflatable paddleboard to Pittsburg Lake.
Trail running network: The extensive trail system throughout the canyons provides dedicated routes for runners of all abilities. "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," explains a visitor to Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts.
What campers like
Proximity to urban areas: Many dispersed camping locations sit remarkably close to the city while still providing isolation. "We frequently come up here just to sleep outside some nights and head back home in the early morning to get food and shower," writes a visitor to Neffs Canyon Dispersed Site, highlighting the accessibility for quick overnight trips.
Year-round salamander viewing: Unique wildlife viewing opportunities exist at certain higher elevation lakes. "Going back to the trailhead for Cecret Lake you can reach the namesake lake within a half mile which is loaded with hundreds of cute little salamanders!" notes a camper at Albion Basin - Dispersed.
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution at higher elevations creates exceptional night sky viewing. "If weather permits, leaving off the rain fly provides an exquisite view of the milky way as you drift off to sleep," writes a camper who stayed near Cecret Lake.
What you should know
Seasonal road closures: Many access roads remain closed through early summer. "We couldn't access early June road still closed past the ski resort," reports a visitor attempting to reach Mineral Basin Dispersed in June.
Variable permit requirements: Each canyon has different regulations regarding permits and camping restrictions. "You can backpack in and camp anywhere a 1/2 mile from any road like the other nearby canyons," explains a camper at Millcreek Canyon Dispersed Camping.
Insect conditions: Flies and mosquitoes can be problematic at certain elevations and seasons. "The other annoyance was the flies. I am not sure if it is just the spot that I chose that had a lot of flies or they would have followed me wherever I set up camp. They didn't bite and were more annoying than anything," notes a Pittsburg Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Stream play areas: Several sites offer safe water access for children. "We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river. Just a fun time," describes a family visiting Millcreek Canyon.
Educational wildlife experiences: Families can observe diverse mountain wildlife with proper preparation. "Everytime we come here we also see moose and deer. Best time is definitely fall," reports a visitor to Millcreek Canyon.
Short backpacking options: For families new to backcountry camping, several areas offer relatively short hikes to primitive sites. "1/3 of a mile up the Mt. Aire trail there are a few premade dispersed camping spots. 1 is good for groups of 3 tents with a nice big fire pit and the others are smaller for 1 or 2 people sharing a tent," describes a camper at Millcreek Dispersed Camping.
Tips from RVers
Off-road vehicle access: Many primitive camping areas near North Salt Lake require significant ground clearance. "If going to attempt with a trailer, a high clearance or off-road vehicle is required," notes a camper at Mineral Basin Dispersed, who observed both tents and trailers in the area.
Established campfire rings: Despite primitive conditions, many dispersed sites feature established fire rings. "The campsite we chose was off a small spur road which offered privacy and was along a small stream. As with other primitive camping, there is nothing here with regards to amenities with the exception of an established fire ring," reports a Mineral Basin camper.
Morning noise consideration: Be prepared for early morning recreational traffic in popular areas. "You will be awakened by atvs fairly early," warns a Mineral Basin visitor, while another notes the area has "lots of side by side activity on these roads."
