Glamping close to Orem, Utah offers mountain-based accommodations at elevations between 6,000-7,400 feet where temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer. The Wasatch Mountain region contains several established luxury tent camping options within a 30-minute drive of Orem, with many sites requiring reservations weeks or months in advance due to popularity.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Nunns Park provides access to Bridal Veil Falls via a short trail. One visitor noted, "The walk from the campsite to bridal falls is also lovely!" This hiking connection makes it an excellent basecamp for day trips.
Fishing in nearby waters: The upscale tent camping experience at Granite Flat offers access to multiple fishing spots. According to a camper, "It's clean. Has access to many fishing lakes and hiking trails!" The campground sits at approximately 6,400 feet elevation.
Mountain biking: Several luxury glamping sites provide direct access to mountain biking trails. Trails range from beginner-friendly paths to technical routes. Pack appropriate gear as weather conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations.
What campers like
River sounds: At Little Mill, glampers appreciate the natural white noise. One reviewer shared, "We loved it. You could hear the river and we had a great time." The river creates a constant ambient backdrop that many find relaxing.
Mountain views: Mt. Timpanogos glamping sites offer direct views of prominent peaks. A camper described, "Behind Mount Timp along the 92 passed Sundance and Aspen Grove is a beautiful area full aspen and fir. Plenty of room for dispersed camping." The diverse tree cover provides natural privacy between sites.
Early reservation system: Most glamping locations near Orem use reservation systems that open months in advance. A review for Timpooneke notes, "Book EARLY- ita very popular. Near hiking trails and reservoirs(no motor sports)." Reservations typically open 6 months before the camping season.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most luxury tent accommodations have limited operating seasons. At Timpooneke, the season runs "June 1 to September 3" due to the high elevation of 7,400 feet, making spring camping impossible.
Mosquitoes: Utah Lake area glamping sites experience significant mosquito activity. One camper warned, "The mosquitoes here are terrible. I came here early on a holiday to get a good spot and was ambushed by swarms of mosquitoes."
Water restrictions: Several glamping locations in watershed areas have strict water usage rules. At Tanners Flat, visitors cannot wade in nearby creeks, with one reviewer noting, "The nearby creek is pretty, but you cannot so much as wade in it without facing prosecution and a $1500 fine."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Jolley's Ranch Campground offers glamping with playground facilities nearby. A visitor commented, "This campground was really crowded when we went and we had really loud people right by us which was frustrating but overall it was a good site with a fun playground close by."
Spacious sites for multiple tents: Some glamping areas accommodate larger family groups. At Nunns Park, a reviewer observed, "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."
Stream exploration: Many sites feature safe water access points. One Jolley's Ranch visitor noted, "The site is right on a small stream that has some small trout in it." Parents should check for poison ivy along stream banks and supervise children around water.
Tips from RVers
Gate closure times: Spruces has important access restrictions. A reviewer cautioned, "Note that the gate closes late at night so expect to walk from the road if you show up too late." Arrival planning is essential when glamping with larger vehicles.
Site selection for privacy: Some glamping locations offer varying degrees of seclusion. At Granite Flat, a visitor advised, "Our site was very quiet and secluded." Reviewing site maps before booking helps identify more private locations.
Road noise considerations: Some luxury tent sites experience traffic sounds. One Little Mill reviewer mentioned, "My only reason this campground didn't get 5 stars is due to the horrible road noise. I seriously thought I was at a truck stop off the interstate. Honking and racing cars until 3am just ruined it."
