Oakley, Utah camping areas range in elevation from 6,400 to 10,000 feet, with summer temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby Salt Lake City. Campsites across the region experience significant temperature drops after sunset, often requiring warm clothing even during July and August when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. The high elevation means UV exposure is intensified, requiring additional sun protection compared to lower-elevation destinations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Strawberry Reservoir isn't the only fishing destination near Oakley. Mill Hollow Reservoir offers excellent high-elevation fishing at 8,800 feet. "Great fishing. Site 5 is my favorite, just a short walk to the reservoir," notes one camper at Mill Hollow.
Mountain biking: The area surrounding Redman Campground provides access to numerous mountain biking trails. "This is super close to my favorite mountain bike ride in Northern Utah - The Wasatch Crest Trail. As you can tell in the pictures, this area is very lush and rich with pine trees. It stays relatively cool, even in the summer time," explains a cyclist who visited Redman Campground.
Paddle sports: Alexander Lake offers opportunities for non-motorized water activities in a more remote setting. "You can camp right on the lake with hardly anyone around you. You have to four-wheel in to get there--low clearance cars won't make it. Take a raft or canoe out on the lake and go fishing!" recommends a regular visitor to Alexander Lake Backcountry.
What campers like
High-elevation escape from heat: Many campsites near Oakley sit at elevations where summer temperatures remain moderate. At Mill Hollow, a camper points out the practical benefit: "8800 ft of elevation—escape the heat."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to spot diverse wildlife. At Lost Creek Campground, which sits at nearly 10,000 feet, one visitor reported: "A moose did come through our campsite so be aware of wildlife. Incredibly friendly however."
Star visibility: The area's high elevation and distance from urban light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. At River's Edge at Heber Valley, a camper wrote: "We are really loving our stay here. We have already been here for 3 nights and are staying a week. The grounds are so well-maintained. We have two dogs and there's lots of grass for them to play in."
What you should know
Insect preparation: Bug activity varies by location and season, with mosquitoes often prevalent near water. At Rockport State Park, one visitor advises: "Definitely bring bug spray!"
Weather variability: High-elevation campsites experience rapid weather changes, including unseasonable cold. At Spruces - Big Cottonwood, a camper shared: "We had a wonderful time with the family. We went over 4th of July weekend 2 years ago and it was beautiful on the first 2 days the last day however it started to hail and snow. Yes, in July."
Campsite competition: Demand for sites remains high throughout the season. For Granite Flat near Provo, a visitor warns: "Be aware that this campsite reservations for the weekend fill up quick. I checked in late may and every weekend until September was already booked."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play facilities. At River's Edge at Heber Valley, a visitor notes: "We don't have children but there's a very nice playground and small pond where they can fish - catch and release."
Off-leash dog areas: Several campgrounds prohibit dogs entirely due to watershed regulations. One alternative is River's Edge, where a camper mentions: "The river that runs alongside is really pretty and if you cross the road there's a larger river and a trail where dogs can go off leash."
Kid-friendly hikes: Many campsites offer access to trails suitable for younger hikers. At Redman Campground, a visitor shares: "There are flush toilets and water spigots. We've used one of the group sites and a double site, and they are very roomy. The camp hosts have always been attentive, too. There are all sorts of activities around that make it a perfect central spot- hiking Donut Falls and around Silver Lake are two kid-friendly ones we do."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: At Tanners Flat in Little Cottonwood Canyon, a camper clarifies: "The campground is pretty, but it is not for family camping with a tent. This campground has pull-through areas for people towing camping trailers, but not much for those that want to set up a full-size tent and lounge around outside."
Overnight options: Echo Island RV Resort provides convenient facilities for short stays. "Reserved a few hours before arriving on a Sunday in June and there were plenty of spots. Camp host was super nice when we arrived. Definitely a family friendly place, but if that isn't your jam and you just need a place to overnight this place is a good bet."
Yurt camping Oakley, Utah alternatives: While yurt camping near Oakley is available at designated locations, RVers seeking similar experiences with more amenities can find them at River's Edge. "Nicely managed campground, good website, efficient reservation process. Management very helpful and friendly. The campsites are nicely spaced, good tree cover, green well kept lawn at all sites."
