Dispersed tent camping around Park City, Utah offers rugged backcountry opportunities with unique seasonal access challenges. Most primitive sites sit between 8,000-10,000 feet elevation, resulting in significantly cooler overnight temperatures than the valley floor. Winter snowpack typically blocks access to higher elevation camping areas until late June, with some forest service roads remaining impassable until early July.
What to do
Hiking from camp: Red Pine Lake offers exceptional alpine hiking access with significant elevation gain. "I also hiked up to the upper red pine lake, which is a very steep climb. The trail is unmarked and nearly impossible to follow, so it requires some creativity and bushwacking/rock hopping to get up there," notes backpacker Justin C. at Red Pine Lake.
Trout fishing: Several alpine lakes near camping areas contain stocked trout. "Both lakes were loaded with large trout, but I didn't have a fishing rod, so all I could do was look at them this time," mentions a camper at Red Pine Lake. Silver Lake Backcountry provides another fishing option, with one visitor noting, "At the trailhead you have great acces to the lake and fishing."
Trail running: Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping serves as a hub for trail runners. "Millcreek Canyon is home to some wonderful trails that can be accessed by foot or bike. Although the canyon offers many hiking trails, the main use of the trails seems to be for trail running," explains Sean H.
What campers like
Alpine lakes: Campers consistently mention the high-elevation lakes as highlights. "An amazing spot to drive to and spend the day or backpack in and spend a night or two," writes Alan B. about Silver Lake Backcountry. Another camper adds, "I backpacked up to Red Pine Lake and had a great time. The trail up is well kept and the lake itself is stunning."
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation campsites provide relief from summer heat. "Great escape from the SLC Valley heat…a short 1.5 hour drive and temp drops 20 degrees from the valley," reports Belinda H. at Mill Hollow dispersed camping area.
Wildlife viewing: Animal sightings enhance the camping experience. "We even saw a moose about 30 feet from our campsite drinking from the creek," mentions Kristy M. at Shingle Creek. Another camper at Mill Hollow reports, "I've seen plenty of chipmunks and even had two elk run past my campsite."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to many dispersed tent camping sites near Park City require appropriate vehicles. "You're definitely going to need 4WD and high clearance because the roads leading up to the campsite are filled with ruts and holes," warns a camper about reaching remote areas. Another notes, "The main road in is fairly easy to navigate but if you venture off the main path you'll want a vehicle with clearance and possibly 4X4."
Permit requirements: "Millcreek is a great escape from the city. All the camping is backcountry so you can pick any trail and just make sure that you are 1/2 mile off the road and at least 200 ft from developed ares and water," explains Dan G. about Millcreek Canyon.
Seasonal limitations: "Warning - road is closed 3.5 miles into the park before where camping spots were indicated. No notice on when it would reopen," reports a recent visitor to Millcreek Canyon. Another notes, "Couldn't get much higher than the reservoir due to snow on the road."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible water play: Kelli R. recommends Millcreek Canyon for families: "We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river. Just a fun time." The shallow stream areas provide safer water recreation for children than the deeper alpine lakes.
Shorter backpacking options: For families wanting to try overnight backpacking near Park City, Kimball Campground offers a moderate introduction. "The campsites are hidden but close together which I loved being a solo female traveler it made me feel so safe knowing people were on both sides of me," notes Bethany R.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: "We cherish the ability to camp like this so we always take out everything we brought in 'leave no trace,'" mentions a family at Mill Hollow dispersed camping. Another camper adds, "I've hiked and it's been great. I've seen plenty of chipmunks and even had two elk run past my campsite."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most tent camping sites near Park City prohibit RVs due to road conditions or regulations. Bethany R. notes about Kimball Campground: "The roads are really rough don't think you'll be able to do it without 4x4 or awd my Honda CR-V did great!!"
Primitive camping requirements: RVers planning tent camping trips should prepare for no hookups. "This is LNT(leave no trace) camping so be sure to pack out what you pack in. There are no amenities but you are along a water source so if you have a filter, you have water," explains Jenny R. about dispersed camping in the area.
