Dispersed camping areas near Orem provide options for horse owners seeking backcountry access without developed equestrian facilities. The Lake Mountains west of Utah Lake range in elevation from 4,800 to 6,200 feet, creating varied terrain conditions for riders throughout the camping season. Winter weather typically limits equestrian access from November through March, with spring mud seasons often extending trail closures into April.
What to do
Paddle sports at Tibble Fork: Located 40-50 minutes from Provo, Silver Lake Backcountry connects to multiple reservoirs where non-motorized watercraft are welcome. "Lots of place to paddle board, kayak, etc," notes Bentz E., while another visitor mentions that "Silver Lake Reservoir" permits "fishing and light watercraft."
Mountain biking: The foothills surrounding Nunn's Park provide direct access to canyon trail systems. "It is quick and easy for the kind of trip to just get away," reports Kyler N., though some campers note that "in the morning bikers/joggers run by you on the path and it doesn't feel very much like wilderness camping."
Summit hiking: Many equestrian-accessible areas connect to mountain trail systems leading to significant peaks. The Alpine Loop provides access to Mount Timpanogos, where camping at Timpooneke gives hikers early access. "It's a nice site right at the base of the timpooneke trail that leads to summit of my timp. Not free, but a great way to be there for a head start on the sunrise hike," explains Trip A.
What campers like
Natural sounds: Campers frequently mention the sound of moving water as a highlight at sites near Orem. At Nunns Park, "The river is right there and makes some beautiful yet subtle white noise," according to Helen A. Another camper simply states, "Sound of the river was awesome!"
Temperature relief: The elevation gain in camping areas provides cooler conditions during summer months. At Mount Timpanogos Campground, campers report "incredibly quiet, silent even, at night. Gorgeous but a little chilly." Another visitor specifically mentioned using it as "a cool getaway" noting they "were visiting relatives near Provo and enjoyed the cooler getaway in the evening."
Scenic contrasts: The position between Utah Lake and mountain terrain creates dramatic views. At Kimball Campground, trails "took you up so you have an amazing elevated view of the mountains and lake." Sites facing west catch sunset colors over water while east-facing sites frame mountain alpenglow.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many developed campsites require advance booking, particularly during peak season. Granite Flat fills quickly: "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."
Road conditions: Access to horse-friendly dispersed sites often requires capable vehicles. For Soldier's Pass, "Roads were bumpy, but manageable. Access depends on where you go, several paths to take w other sites." At Kimball Campground, visitors warn "The roads are really rough don't think you'll be able to do it without 4x4 or awd."
Privacy variations: Campsite seclusion varies dramatically across the area. At Mount Timpanogos Campground, "Sites are spread out. Lots of trees." However, at Nunns Park, reviewers note sites are "a little close" and "you're quite close to other campers' tents/cars."
Tips for camping with families
Multi-activity sites: Families benefit from campgrounds with diverse recreation options. The Willow Park Campground offers "a playground, sand volleyball, boat launch as your near the Jordan River." Another reviewer notes it's "a fun place for family, neighborhood and scout camp outs any time of year. Great trails, playground, river access, and lots of room to spread out!"
Tent positioning: Finding flat ground for family tents requires advance planning. At Whiting Campground, campsites feature "concrete parking and fire pit" areas with surrounding natural surfaces. At Kimball, families report "the dirt is very chalky and dusty, and keeping your gear clean is not really an option."
Scout-friendly locations: Multiple sites accommodate larger youth groups with appropriate facilities. At Granite Flat, "There is a huge spot of grass that you can play sports or baseball on. Can't remember the site we had but there was a huge rock that was fun for the scouts to climb on."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most horse-accessible camping near Orem lacks full services for larger RVs. Soldier's Pass offers "FREE! No amenities! Must carry in all water," making it suitable only for self-contained units prepared for boondocking. One visitor explains they "were just looking for a place to park our RV while we visited our daughter in Eagle Mountain. There was plenty of room."
Length restrictions: Many campgrounds have size limitations for rigs. Nunns Park accommodates modest trailers: "Our 20' trailer does fine" according to one camper. Mount Timpanogos Campground has "sites which would accommodate a small 16 ft trailer. We had to unhook and park diagonal to fit small trailer and short truck."
