Best Campgrounds near Orem, UT

Camping options near Orem, Utah range from established campgrounds to dispersed sites across nearby public lands. Several developed campgrounds like Lakeside RV Campground, Utah Lake State Park, and Granite Flat provide accommodations for tent and RV camping with varying levels of amenities. Lakeside RV Campground offers full hookups with electric, water, and sewer connections, while more rustic experiences can be found at Nunns Park and Little Mill campground. For those seeking a more primitive experience, dispersed camping is available at locations such as Squaw Peak Road Dispersed and Miner's Canyon Dispersed areas, where campers can stay without designated facilities or services.

Road conditions and accessibility vary significantly throughout the region, with many mountain campgrounds requiring high-clearance vehicles on forest roads. Seasonal weather patterns affect camping availability, with higher elevation sites like Granite Flat typically open from May to October. One camper noted, "This campground has many spots that were all clean and convenient. If you stay on the northern side of the campground, expect to hear cars and trucks through the night." Lower elevation campgrounds near Utah Lake remain accessible year-round but may experience extreme heat during summer months. Most dispersed camping areas have no water sources or restroom facilities, requiring visitors to pack in supplies and practice proper waste disposal.

The Utah Lake area provides popular water-based recreation opportunities, though reviews indicate variable water conditions. Campgrounds in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest offer cooler temperatures and forest settings at higher elevations northeast of Orem. According to feedback on The Dyrt, "Being that we already live in southern Utah county, this place has become a go to for our family. Only about 45 mins away from Payson." Many campers appreciate the proximity of camping options to urban amenities while still providing natural settings. Sites with shade trees receive consistently positive reviews, particularly during summer months when temperatures can rise significantly. Visitors frequently mention the convenience of having multiple camping styles available within a short drive of the city, making the area suitable for both weekend getaways and longer stays.

Best Camping Sites Near Orem, Utah (260)

    1. Lakeside RV Campground

    27 Reviews
    Orem, UT
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 373-5267

    $31 - $48 / night

    "Lakeside was our home for 3 nights while we were in town for Provo’s annual Colonial Festival."

    "You're super close to amenities and anything you could want to see in town, as well as Utah Lake."

    2. Nunns Park

    27 Reviews
    Aspen Grove, UT
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 851-8640

    "The only bad part about this camp site is all the highway noise. It is close to the Provo river and there is lots of shade so that is nice. Great place to have a camp fire and cook some S'mores. "

    "Close in to town, very pretty with Provo river next to it. Bike path and highway noise can be distracting."

    3. Granite Flat (utah)

    38 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 785-3563

    $28 - $358 / night

    "Tucked in very back. Long ways to walk from car. Water spout next to car area. Will be sharing parking with 2 other sites. 2 lakes nearby. Fire pit with grill gate. Shaded area."

    "Utah is such an amazing place to visit for the outdoors. My family and I come here once a year because we love hiking and being in the outdoors."

    4. Utah Lake State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Orem, UT
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 375-0731

    $50 - $100 / night

    "Gorgeous view across the lake. Quiet. Electricity worked well. Extremely clean. Camp hosts were nowhere to be found and another rig had claimed the end lake-adjacent site I paid for."

    "This my 3 stay here at Utah Lake state park. 2x in July and now in September. I’m a single female traveler."

    5. Squaw Peak Road Dispersed

    17 Reviews
    Provo, UT
    5 miles

    "This site is deep past the meadows near square peak. You continue to follow the dirt road in and on your left is a small depression in the land with a fire pit and ample space for tents or hammocks."

    "Found a beautiful spot tucked away in the trees with a great view of the Timps. Continue exploring along the road for amazing panoramic views."

    6. Springville / Provo KOA Holiday

    19 Reviews
    Springville, UT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 491-0700

    $50 - $300 / night

    "We stayed at the Springville/ Provo Utah KOA in September 2021. This is a full service KOA with nice FHU 50 amp pull-thru sites which were long, wide and level."

    "Knowing that this would be more of a "city" KOA, we were prepared for the tight sites but the view of the mountains and access to hot springs, food, gas, etc. is well worth it!"

    7. Little Mill

    20 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 785-3563

    $28 - $229 / night

    "We got a site with access to the river which my kids really enjoyed. There was a fun giant "sliding rock" in the area to climb on. Lots of trees for hammocks."

    "The lake is right up the road and a great place to swim and fish. There is a sliding rock for kids to climb and play on near the camp grounds. So many bike and walking trails."

    8. Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    22 Reviews
    Saratoga Springs, UT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "Very easy access public land right on Utah Lake. Packed gravel and dirt road going in is lumpy from use but smooths out a bit farther in. Side roads to sites are anyones guess."

    "Directions brought us right to the location. Road was rough into the sites and were hard to determine specific sites. Ended up pulling into edge of field. Definitely a good quiet night's sleep"

    9. Uinta National Forest Hope Campground

    12 Reviews
    Provo, UT
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 785-3563

    $28 - $62 / night

    "Really close to the Provo River for day activities."

    "Nice overlooks nearby."

    10. Timpooneke

    15 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 785-3563

    $28 - $205 / night

    "I love how it is near a river. You can hear it at night. It's so nice to get to a cool area out of the hot valley and into the cool scenic back country of Utah county."

    "While there are many campgrounds in Utah that rival it, this one is special because it's such a short drive after work."

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Recent Reviews near Orem, UT

1313 Reviews of 260 Orem Campgrounds


  • Sary W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Flight Park State Recreation Area

    Good price

    Instructions for the campsite are a bit confusing. Don’t pay for a site until you get here even if you book online. There are limited spots. People camping around are nice and say hello.

    We camped on a Friday night and it was full when we arrived around 6pm but we snagged the last spot available. Otherwise I would have camped down the road in a dirt patch anyway.

  • Mike C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area

    Good overnight spot

    Quiet and easy to get to from road. Got crowded as the evening went on but plenty of room for all

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Squaw Peak Road Dispersed

    A hard way to the Top

    We fought hard to get to the spot. Up to Hood Campground, the road was a normal, winding road. Really great. After that, however, a stretch began that was really only suitable for 4WDs. Rocks, deep ruts, etc. We managed it with the 2WD, but we had to give it our all. There aren't many spots. The spot we found was right on the mountain in the forest, but it wasn't worth the effort. We still enjoyed the night very much. We didn't have an internet connection with T-Online. Apparently, the spot serves the locals as a picnic destination, love nest, or even wedding photo spot until sunset. We had a bit of everything that evening ;)

  • Cali C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Mud Creek Campground

    Spacious campground close to town

    There are tons of spots to choose from, and it always felt very safe. Lots of people with ATV’s and dirtbikes but not loud at all.

  • Jeff R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    Beautiful spot but trash everywhere

    Great views of the lake and surrounding mountains, but has trash, broken glass and junk everywhere.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Sheep Creek

    Convenient overnight spot

    Plenty of space for any camper. tents to fifth wheels. The night I camped 9/20/25 there were about a dozen vehicles.

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Heber Ranger Station

    Parking Lot Camping

    You can stay at this ranger station up to 14 days. Heber city has a lot to offer. There was a large trash can available but the ranger station was closed due to electrical problems so I don’t know if they allow you to use the bathrooms inside.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Bountiful B Dispersed

    Popular re recreation area with good camping

    There's 4 fire rings around the coords, probably only 3 actual camp sites. The one fire has trails going all around it. If you continue up the mountain, there's more sites at the top. This whole area seems to be a local atv, dirt bike, mountain bike, and shooting area. Definitely lots of people shooting guns into gulleys during the day. Everybody seemed friendly though. The road up takes about 25 or 30 minutes to get to the coords. Its a bit rough but if you have awd or 4wd its no problem. Great views on the way up and down. I have Verizon and had coverage off and on, its enough to send texts but not much more.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    Many Sites of Varying Sizes

    Very easy access public land right on Utah Lake. Packed gravel and dirt road going in is lumpy from use but smooths out a bit farther in. Side roads to sites are anyones guess. Some are pretty reasonable, others are like mine fields. Suggest you park on the road and walk in. Many sites are “pull-throughs” so one entrance can be better than the other. Some great spots up the hill but you’ll need high clearance and 4wd. Bugs weren’t bad on this warm mid-September day. Some trash but I’ve been to more formal places with more trash than this. Access to the lake and lots of space to hike. Nice view of lights from the Provo side of the lake at night.


Guide to Orem

Camping options near Orem, Utah range from lakeside sites at lower elevations to forested mountain campgrounds above 7,000 feet. The diverse terrain creates dramatic temperature differences, with alpine sites often 15-20 degrees cooler than valley locations during summer months. Most dispersed camping areas close seasonally from late October through April due to snow accumulation and road conditions.

What to do

Hiking from camp: The Timpooneke Campground offers direct access to Mount Timpanogos trails. "Mt Timpanogous provides some stellar views of the backcountry and the valley below. On the way, stop and checkout Scout Falls. Early in the summer the falls comes pretty heavy because of the runoff," notes camper Shad G.

Water activities: Utah Lake provides opportunities for boating and fishing despite variable conditions. "We were able to paddle board which was a blast! I loves being so close and having access to so many beautiful hikes and Rick climbing. We were right next to a beautiful river and it was pretty quiet," shares Kaitlin R. about her experience at Granite Flat.

Wildlife viewing: Evening hours offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Miner's Canyon Dispersed, visitors enjoy additional entertainment: "Watching the paragliders on the weekends is cool as well," according to Robby K.

What campers like

Privacy between sites: At Nunns Park, campers appreciate the layout despite proximity to urban areas. "There were a couple spots that were semi private but most were very exposed. Lots of area on some of them though for multiple tents. The river is right there and makes some beautiful yet subtle white noise," notes Helen A.

Easy access from urban areas: The proximity to Orem and surrounding cities makes these campgrounds convenient for quick getaways. "For only 25min from downtown provo, this is a wonderful place to go for a night. Super kind camp host and well maintained roads," says Causley S. about Hope Campground.

Natural sound buffers: The flowing water at some campgrounds helps create a more secluded feel. "The river is right there and makes some beautiful yet subtle white noise. It is in provo canyon and the cliffs on either side are very impressive. The walk from the campsite to bridal falls is also lovely!" according to Helen A.

What you should know

Weather considerations: Higher elevation sites offer relief from summer heat but require preparation. "The elevation is about 6400 ft- so no spring camping. Book EARLY! This campsite is always full," advises Andrea P. about Timpooneke.

Insect activity: Several campgrounds report significant mosquito populations, particularly near water. "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. The only downside was that this year there were an obscene amount of mosquitoes," warns Ash S. at Granite Flat.

Gate closure times: Hope Campground and other established sites have specific regulations. "Make sure you get camped and in because they lock the gate coming into campground at 11PM and you have to hike in," cautions Brad B. about Little Mill Campground.

Tips for camping with families

Playgrounds and amenities: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities beyond natural features. "They have a pool for the warmer months. There are 2 small dog parks one for large and one for small dogs. The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful," writes Erin A. about Lakeside RV Campground.

Shorter hiking options: Families with young children can find accessible trails near many campgrounds. "The camp spots here are super nice. The best part is how close it is to Provo. Super convenient. We didn't stay very long but would recommend this spot to anyone who wants some nice car camping," suggests Joshua C. about Nunns Park.

Beginner-friendly fishing spots: Several locations offer good fishing opportunities for children. "Great small reservoirs nearby for fishing, or canoeing- no motor sports allowed," notes Andrea P. about camping near Timpooneke.

Tips from RVers

Site leveling conditions: Many campsites require preparation for comfortable parking. "Granite flats is just a few miles up AF canyon and our site was very quiet and secluded. There are two reservoirs close by in Tibble Fork and Silverlake flat that are both beautiful. The one downside was that the tent spot was not flat, and had quite a few large rocks," reports Justin J.

Water access points: For RVers needing to refill tanks, specific locations offer easier access. "Spent a few nights there, easy access to Saratoga Springs for water, dump, and groceries. Sites were fairly level, but there were some instances of trash and broken glass so be wary when dropping your RV or camper," advises Connor N. about Squaw Peak Road Dispersed.

Limited hookup availability: Most mountain campgrounds lack full hookups. "Nice little park, sites are a little close. Our 20' trailer does fine. Close in to town, very pretty with Provo river next to it. Bike path and highway noise can be distracting," notes Michael L. about Nunns Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any campgrounds with shower facilities near Orem?

Mountain Valley RV Resort in nearby Heber City is one of the best options for campers seeking shower facilities. This well-maintained resort features an adult-only section for peace and quiet, concrete pads, and full amenities including clean shower facilities. Another excellent option is Springville / Provo KOA Holiday, which offers reservable sites with water, toilets, and shower facilities in a family-friendly environment. For those seeking more rustic camping, be aware that dispersed sites like Soldier's Pass and Cascade Springs don't offer any bathroom facilities. State park campgrounds in the area typically provide basic restrooms, but shower availability varies by location.

What hiking trails can I access from Orem camping areas?

The Orem area offers excellent hiking opportunities near several campgrounds. Cascade Springs Dispersed Site provides spectacular views of Mt. Timpanogos with panoramic vistas and access to numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty. The Alpine Loop scenic drive nearby connects to multiple trailheads. Timpooneke campground provides direct access to one of the most popular trails to summit Mt. Timpanogos. Soldier's Pass area offers easy to moderate hiking trails suitable for most skill levels, though you'll share the area with ATV enthusiasts. For those camping near the Uinta Mountains, trails around Lilly Lake Campground provide stunning alpine scenery with varying difficulty levels, from family-friendly strolls to challenging backcountry routes.

Where are the best camping sites near Orem, Utah?

Orem offers diverse camping options within a short drive. Rock Cliff Area Campground at Jordanelle State Park provides clean, fully functional RV sites with full hookups. For a more rustic experience, Skyline Drive features dispersed camping along a dirt road near Tucker's ghost town remnants, with a creek and fascinating rock formations. Additional options include Pine Creek Campground at Wasatch Mountain State Park for traditional camping with narrow roads and mature trees, though sites may be unlevel, and Soldier's Pass for free dispersed camping without amenities, ideal for ATVs and off-road enthusiasts. For families seeking established campgrounds, Timpooneke and Little Mill offer reservable sites with basic facilities within a reasonable drive from Orem.

What lake camping options are available near Orem?

Payson Lakes offers excellent lake camping about 45 minutes from Orem. This family-friendly destination features great fishing for children and youth, plus swimming and kayaking opportunities. Motorized boats aren't allowed, making it safer for water activities. The lake is surrounded by beautiful landscape and hiking trails. Another option is Miner's Canyon Dispersed, which provides lakeside camping, though visitors should be prepared for potential litter issues. For those willing to drive a bit further, Jordanelle State Park offers waterfront camping with modern amenities. Utah Lake is also accessible from several camping areas, including Soldier's Pass, though facilities are minimal and you'll need to bring your own water.