Tent camping near Orem, Utah ranges from easy access sites to challenging backcountry areas. Located at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, primitive camping options sit between 5,000-10,000 feet elevation with dramatic temperature variations common even in summer months. Many primitive camping areas require wilderness permits during peak season from May through September.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Silver Lake Backcountry provides excellent fishing access with nearby paddle boarding options. "Only 40-50 minutes away from Provo, UT area so easy to get away for a quick day or two of camping. Lots of hikes to do nearby, beautiful views, and place to paddle board, kayak, etc." as mentioned by Bentz E.
Multi-day backpacking: Red Pine Lake offers backcountry camping ideal for overnight trips. The trail follows a stream for reliable water access. One camper noted, "I didn't have to carry anything beyond my little half liter filter bottle. After about a mile or two, the trail gets significantly steeper and rockier."
River camping: Camp near flowing water at Dry Canyon where sites are positioned near the stream but not too close. "You're a perfect distance from the river so you can listen to it as you fall asleep, but you don't have to worry about floating away," shares Ethan H.
Wildlife viewing: Many sites offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Silver Lake Backcountry, one camper reported, "The scenery is beautiful and we even saw a herd of deer run by our camp."
What campers like
High elevation views: Hobble Right Fork Dispersed sits at higher elevations providing exceptional views. "A great view of both Spanish Fork and Provo peaks. There are a few places to go behind growth for more privacy if desired," notes Jakob H.
Stargazing: The reduced light pollution in dispersed camping areas creates ideal conditions for night sky viewing. At Hobble Right Fork, Ethan H. shared, "stunning views of the surrounding mountains. hardly any light pollution, so the stars were amazing."
Group camping facilities: Camp Maple Dell accommodates larger groups with proper facilities. According to Michelle B., "This camp can be rented by camp ground for $150 per night. Multiple tents fit per site. We had 6 tents, and had room for several more. Covered pavillion with three picnic tables connected end to end."
Solitude during weekdays: Primitive camping spots near Orem often become crowded on weekends but offer quiet experiences midweek. For Red Pine Lake, one camper mentioned, "during the week in mid August, is relatively uncrowded at night. There are a lot of day hikers but not too many overnighters."
What you should know
Water restrictions: Silver Lake serves as a drinking water reservoir with specific camping regulations. "You need to stay at least 1/2 mile away from the lake to camp. Maybe they open the road up at some point during the year, but as of July 2nd, it was gated off, so come prepared to backpack up to a spot," warns Cortlan S.
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. At Hobble Right Fork, "The dirt road in was pretty rough, but manageable. Make sure you have a spare tire on you just in case," recommends Ethan H.
Fire regulations: Fire restrictions vary by location and season. At Red Pine Lake, "No fires or pets are allowed given that Little Cottonwood Canyon is considered Watershed. So plan on cooking with a backpacking stove/cooker."
Weather preparation: Mountain camping means variable conditions. One camper at Red Pine Lake shared, "It stormed pretty hard in the middle of the night, and since the lake is up near the top of the mountain, it got pretty windy. Be prepared for significant foul weather."
Tips for camping with families
Group-friendly sites: Families looking for established facilities should consider larger organized campgrounds. At Camp Maple Dell, Angela S. notes it's "just 5 miles up the Payson Canyon, has a lot of leafy trees for shade, most campsites have a pavilion and picnic table."
River access for kids: Wasatch National Forest Sulphur Campground offers river access and organized facilities. "We did catch some fish on the river. You are 9 miles from Mirror Lake," reports Justin A.
Wildlife education: Several areas provide opportunities to teach children about local ecosystems. According to one camper at Dry Canyon, "I have seen elk, deer, moose, and black bear in this area so bring a camera and don't leave food in your tent."
Short hiking options: Look for campgrounds with easier trails for younger children. At Anderson Park, Michelle B. shared that it "accomodates small or large groups... good hikes nearby, Battle Creek Falls is a close hike."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many campgrounds have restrictions on larger vehicles. At Wasatch National Forest Sulphur Campground, Justin A. notes, "The camp spots are narrow, the road in/out is narrow. Our 25ft trailer seemed to be a max length, but there were some 32 ft goosenecks and motor homes there."
Water access strategy: No hookups means planning for water access. At Sulphur Campground, "Great tasting water, we used a 5 gallon bucket and a water transfer pump from Harbor Freight to fill up our fresh tank."
Road conditions: Forest service roads can present challenges for RVs. At Kimball Campground, "The dirt road gets rough and rocky, but is driveable," according to Emily T.
