Top Tent Camping near Payson, UT

Searching for a tent camping spot near Payson? With The Dyrt, it's easy to find Payson campgrounds for you and your tent. Would you prefer a quiet dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities? Either way, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Payson, UT (34)

    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Maple Dell
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Maple Dell
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Maple Dell
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Maple Dell
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Maple Dell
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Maple Dell

    2.

    Camp Maple Dell

    3 Reviews
    12 Photos
    44 Saves
    Elk Ridge, Utah

    Camp Maple Dell offers fresh, engaging and adventurous day camp programs for Cub Scouts, Webelos Scouts, and Primary youth.

    Camp Maple Dell is nestled in Payson Canyon, along the historic Mt Nebo Loop. Established in 1945, Maple Dell has a strong history of serving Scout units.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    • Tent Cabin

    $26 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat

    4.

    Salamander Flat

    8 Reviews
    14 Photos
    396 Saves
    Mutual Dell, Utah

    Salamander Flat trail connects the Timpooneke trail head with the Salamander Flat dispersed camping area and the Pine hollow trail. The trail starts by crossing a stream, then travels through large stands of fir trees, and crosses the road approximately 1 mile from the trailhead. The Salamander Flat dispersed camping sites and Junction with the Willow Hollow trail is .5 miles farther up the trail. From the dispersed sites, it is another .6 miles to the junction with the Pine Hollow trail #047.

    Trail users should be aware of the high level of use that this trail receives, and should expect to see each type of user group on any given day. This trail is subject to a wet trail closure order during the spring and early summer. These closures help to protect and sustain the trail during wet periods. The trail will be signed as closed to all uses except hiking when these closures are in effect.

    Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest outside of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no toilets, no treated water, and no fire grates are provided.

    Camping in dispersed areas on the Forest is allowed for fourteen (14) days in any thirty (30) day consecutive period. Campers must move off Forest after reaching the 14-day limit. The stay limit also applies to all camping equipment (tents, chairs, ATVs, ATV trailers, etc.), even if used by a different person or group. Camping equipment must be removed by the end of the fourteen (14) day stay limit or the equipment may be impounded. Stay limits are implemented to reduce impacts to vegetation and wildlife habitat, as well as provide access to popular campsite areas for other visitors.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Lake Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Lake Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Lake Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Lake Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Lake Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Lake Backcountry

    6.

    Silver Lake Backcountry

    8 Reviews
    30 Photos
    631 Saves
    Alta, Utah
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Pine Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Pine Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Pine Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Pine Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Pine Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Pine Lake

    7.

    Red Pine Lake

    7 Reviews
    83 Photos
    369 Saves
    Alta, Utah

    Primitive, backpacking/hiking accessible only

    • Tents
    • Group
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Anderson Park

    9.

    Anderson Park

    2 Reviews
    1 Photo
    49 Saves
    Pleasant Grove, Utah
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Bunyon's Woodpile
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Bunyon's Woodpile
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Bunyon's Woodpile
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Bunyon's Woodpile
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Bunyon's Woodpile

    10.

    Paul Bunyon's Woodpile

    2 Reviews
    5 Photos
    38 Saves
    Eureka, Utah

    A geologic curiosity - rare in Utah - the "Woodpile" is a cluster of lava logs formed about 30 million years ago during the Eocene Period. The "logs" were formed when a lava flow cooled into orderly columnar joints having 3 to 6 sides. The columns measure about a foot in diameter and up to 15 feet in length. This formation was on the rim of the caldera that collapsed due to a void left when lava flowed out from under the caldera. Basin and range faulting caused the formation to tilt onto its side. Erosion has exposed the formation we now see.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Picnic Table
Showing results 1-10 of 34 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews In Payson

824 Reviews of 34 Payson Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Granite Flat (utah)
    September 12, 2024

    Granite Flat (utah)

    Nice campground

    Very popular campground. Sites nestled in the trees. Occasional road noise. It is shows as first come first served but somehow people can make reservations ahead of time. We looked for a sign which said OPEN and camped there. Hosts are great.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    September 11, 2024

    Salamander Flat

    It’s a campsite

    After a long day of travel we just wanted to get to any site and camp. This is a national forest so there is technically a park permit required. However, we have an annual park pass and they accept that as well. It is an honor system kind of park permit. They ask you to scan the QR code or pay at the self pay station. $10 for a 3day pass, $20 for a 7 day pass.

    The drive up to this site is winding and the cars seem to be used to driving it because they come around the corners pretty fast. Drive carefully and stay on your side of the road. It site is just after mile marker 17.

    The site is huge! Lots of space for people, cars, RVs and trailers. The road is paved until you turn in and then it’s a regular dirt road.

    The major con in this park in general is the bathrooms are yucky especially at this site.

    This seems to be a local hangout for the youngsters as well. They were not a bother to us however, they were letting loose, having a good time at their site. They left around 11 or so.

    No service with AT&T

  • Camper-submitted photo from Redman Campground
    August 28, 2024

    Redman Campground

    Excellent forested campsite for a mid-week stay

    Stopped on a Sunday evening during a westbound cross country journey. Our 20’ van had no issues circling the road to find an open First-come-first-served spot, but would advise not much longer of a rig. We had to figure out the rules for finding and paying for an open spot, but it was all fine. This is a popular campground with many sites reserved far in advance, so last-minute FCFS openings on weekends may be rare.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Strawberry Bay
    August 28, 2024

    Strawberry Bay

    Detail

    Strawberry Bay is a picturesque and serene location, often sought after for its natural beauty and tranquility. It's a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature. The bay offers a stunning view of the water, surrounded by lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for picnics, boating, and peaceful strolls along the shoreline. For those interested in legal matters or court cases in the area, you might want to explore the Cuyahoga court docket details to stay informed about any ongoing legal proceedings or upcoming hearings that could be relevant to your visit. Whether you're planning a peaceful retreat or need to keep an eye on important legal updates, combining these interests can help you make the most of your time in Strawberry Bay.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Keetley Campground — Jordanelle State Park
    August 25, 2024

    Keetley Campground — Jordanelle State Park

    Great views for the family and pets!

    This is a hike in area of camping. Luckily the park provides free wagons so that you can pack up and hike to your area. The hike is about a quarter mile to the general area where there are lots. This area is tent camping only. The views are great and the water is great! It is dog friendly with a leash. Each lot has a paved area with a picnic bench and fire pit. Really enjoyed this place!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
    August 22, 2024

    Cascade Springs Dispersed Site

    Best views in Utah?

    I want to start positive and say that the views are some of the best! Mt Tiponogous is in full view and the panoramic views are all great as well. It was only my group that camped up there the night we camped, but a couple people did drive by for some off road action. Speaking of off road action, the road is atrocious. Dont come unless you have some serious high clearance 4wd vehicle or you will bottom out and destroy your vehicle. I’m saying this as someone from Lake City CO who grew up driving the Alpine Loop, the road is BAD!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Squaw Peak Road Dispersed
    August 17, 2024

    Squaw Peak Road Dispersed

    Bumpy road

    The road leading here is very bumpy. There are two specific spots that are really bad. 4x4 is almost a requirement. I did however see some people make it up in a van so it is possible. The coordinates lead to an open field with a lot of campsites. I would suggest parking in the lot a little further ahead on the left. This road is a popular destination so people ride up and down it a lot. The views are well worth it and there is also some hiking trails around here as well. There are more dispersed camping sites further along this road. I was able to get a very spotty one bar signal of Verizon while near the coordinates.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Willow Spring (Wasatch)
    August 10, 2024

    Dispersed Camping Willow Spring (Wasatch)

    Rocky Rough Road

    Great dispersed camping area with plenty of room! If going all the way to the marked location on the map, only attempt with a high clearance 4x4 or you will not make it! We have a TRX and overland camper and bottomed out on a culvert that dropped off sharply. We went to the marked location only to find a single camping spot on a moderate slope. Recommend stopping two miles earlier in the “Big Glade” meadow, flat and plenty of camping spots. We ended up a mile before that at a cross roads at 8900’. Concur with the ATv traffic from previous reviews, but overall relatively quiet

  • Camper-submitted photo from Strawberry Bay
    August 9, 2024

    Strawberry Bay

    Beautiful Resevoir

    The campground was quiet and clean and host was fantastic! We stayed at campsite C19 and it was perfect with some shade for our tent which was great. Steps away from the reservoir which provided glorious sunrises! Bathrooms were close and clean, running water and flush. We opted to have dinner at the marina cafe and it was convenient and delicious with a great staff! The entrance to the reservoir from our site was a bit murky but if you have a watercraft of sorts then it’s smooth sailing, convenient and water was clear.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Little Mill
    August 7, 2024

    Little Mill

    Great for short trip

    My family of five enjoyed this campground. 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. Downside is it's right next to a busy highway and picnic areas. Although the campsite has quiet hours, the picnic area across the street stayed loud well past quiet hours. The road noise was a lot more than I expected.. especially at night. Definitely bring ear plugs or plan to stay only a nite or two. We planned on staying three nights, but were so exhausted by lack of sleep we left a day early.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Currant Creek
    July 26, 2024

    Currant Creek

    Great place, but terrible road

    We loved everything about this place.  The sites are in great condition and very clean.  The flush toilets were a plus.  It is a little bit of a jaunt to get to the lake, but it is worth going to for fishing, kayaking, paddleboards, or swimming.  There are several ATV/OHV trails in the area.  The camp hosts said that we could have our SxS in the campground as long as it was street legal, and they didn't charge me an extra vehicle fee.  The two things that made this review 4 stars is the dirt road is a washboard mess.  Basically, had to roll in 4-wheel drive in the lowest gear or I would have been shaken off the side.  The second were all the cows that are allowed to graze through the campground.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Little Mill
    July 26, 2024

    Little Mill

    Terrible camp hosts and experience.

    Wish they had negative stars. Terrible camp hosts. Hosts are not what they are. Maybe they had a bad day, maybe they don’t know what they are doing. Whatever was the reasoning for their bad behavior is not acceptable. I’d steer clear of this one. You will not have a good experience. They will badger and control your every move. Belittle and berate. Not shoot straight and take advantage of you. Go somewhere else.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Diamond Campground
    July 24, 2024

    Diamond Campground

    Amazing Place to camp

    This is pu lic forest land. You may camp up to 14 days. It's peaceful, beautiful and so much cooler I. The higher elevations. It's dispersed and free. FCFS

  • Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Fork River Park
    July 22, 2024

    Spanish Fork River Park

    Good enough

    Made a reservation for our RV. Nice, wide spots, all on grass. A firepit and a grill. Clean spots.

    Very very crowded with a large group of campers, using the carpark and picknickarea the whole day and night. Too noisy. We didn't use the toilets because of the group of people next to it. The road is near, quity noisy also at night. And a train is passing every few hours, using its horn before the bend, 24/7....

    Very nice host, who dropped by to check whether we were ok after arrival.

    River is brownish, not meant to swim in.

    Overall: good enough for one night while travelling from A to B. I guess the weekdays ( non-holiday) might be better.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Currant Creek Rd Dispersed
    July 11, 2024

    Currant Creek Rd Dispersed

    Dispersed camping overlooking Currant Reservoir and Creek

    Plenty of dispersed spots along the ridge road. Most have easy pull in access and fire rings. Beautiful views from multiple spots along the ridge but comes with the expected exposure to wind/sun.  More privacy for the spots further along the road some nestled in beautiful aspen groves. It is a great area. We camped overnight and fly fished the currant the next day. It was July 4 weekend but still not crowded.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Main Canyon Road
    July 9, 2024

    Main Canyon Road

    FLIES!!!!!!!

    Swarming with bugs, yes it's outside, THE FILES THOUGH!!! Spiders, bees, grasshoppers galore as well. Our dogs were swarmed with flies, so we're we. Can't spend more than 30 seconds outside during the day without being COVERED in flies.. maybe higher up has less, but our vehicle only made it a little past the fork to the right.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    July 9, 2024

    Salamander Flat

    Utah has the worst system

    All the sites said no reservation, first come first served, but they were all reserved with no campers. Camp host, as usual, nowhere in sight. I've camped in 43 states for decades and Utah is easily the worst state to camp at due to this system of theirs.

    Also the drive up there is about 6 miles of winding hell with idiot children driving so fast I'm surprised there's not a death every day.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Grove (uinta-wasatch-cache National Forest, Ut)
    July 8, 2024

    Aspen Grove (uinta-wasatch-cache National Forest, Ut)

    Gorgeous views, very clean, little prairie dog buddies

    We took a 21’ bumper pull to a double RV site and had a super great time. Site 46 on loop B is so good, double RV spot, right by the bathroom, tons of extra room for a tent if you want one

    Toilets flush! Honestly one of the best bathrooms I’ve seen.

    The northern part of loop B is really close to the dock if you’ve got a boat.

    We had a couple prairie dogs and chipmunks visit our site. Didn’t bother us, still wary of humans, but they were fun to watch

  • Camper-submitted photo from Uinta National Forest Hope Campground
    July 6, 2024

    Uinta National Forest Hope Campground

    Spacious and chill

    Found this campground after several dispersed spots in the area were either closed due to weather or already claimed. Campsites were big with privacy and there was almost no one staying here except the camp host and one other camper. Host was super friendly and it was quite nice to have a toilet to utilize!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Hailstone - Wasatch Campground — Jordanelle State Park
    July 5, 2024

    Hailstone - Wasatch Campground — Jordanelle State Park

    Our favorite MTB hub near Park City

    Jordanelle resevoir is a destination of its own but is a 10 minute drive from Park City. Clean bathrooms and showers make this a great place to camp if you are doing water or mountain sports. The campsites have tables, fire pit and bbq and are kept very clean. There are clear paths to the facilities and there is also a few laundry machines and a playground. You can rent boats and sup at the Marina, which also has a general store. Keep in mind that summers can get pretty warm (yet arid) qnd there isnt much shade.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping--Mill Hollow/Utah FR054
    July 2, 2024

    Dispersed Camping--Mill Hollow/Utah FR054

    Amazing spots the further up you go

    Thoroughly enjoyed our stay here. Road was very accessible lower down with some more adventurous offshoots requiring higher clearance and likely 4x4. We went up an offshoot and navigated through and around some deeper ruts and snow drifts but found an amazing spot on the rim. Fewer people the more altitude we gained. Lots of spots here. Keep driving until you find one, closer in spots are usually taken up with trailers and small rvs. Highly recommend.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Diamond Fork
    July 2, 2024

    Diamond Fork

    One of the easiest camp experiences we have had.

    This campground met our expectations. Although some of the sites were pretty close to each other, it wasn't terrible. The sites were clean and well maintained. Lots of cottonwood tree litter but that's not the camp hosts fault. Vault toilets were clean and stocked. Wish there was some sanitizer at the bathrooms but other than that, well maintained. The water was not working at the camp the weekend we were there but we received an email from Recreation.gov the day we were supposed to arrive notifying us that it was off due to an issue so we were able to bring in water before hand. Verizon/Xfinity mobile had no service but ATT does. Overall an enjoyable trip.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Uinta Campsite
    July 2, 2024

    Dispersed Uinta Campsite

    Open space, nature and road noise

    Plenty of spots on an easy dirt road, campfire rings and lots of space. There's so many birds and critters so you get the nature sounds but it's close to the road so there's road noise all night. Beautiful space. I think I heard a moose in the night-possibly not, but possibly?

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dutchman Mine Flats
    June 25, 2024

    Dutchman Mine Flats

    Great for hammocks, a little rough on tents

    There are several 'camp' spots dispersed in this area accessible only during spring-fall when the canyon is open. You cannot car-camp as there is wooden fence blocking off the parking area.

    Unfortunately, the majority of the ground camping is relatively rocky and uneven, but there are some gems. If you're one of the first up, you will be very likely to get a good spot though, especially now with the Tibble Fork access gone from the washout.



Guide to Payson

Camping near Payson, Utah, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Exploring: The area is surrounded by stunning trails. Many campers enjoy the nearby Tibble Fork Reservoir, which is perfect for a day of hiking and picnicking. One visitor mentioned, "The drive and location is beautiful. The campground is large and there is a lot of privacy."
  • Water Activities: If you love water sports, check out Strawberry Bay. It's a great spot for boating and fishing. A reviewer said, "The campground was quiet and clean... Steps away from the reservoir which provided glorious sunrises!"
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. Campers at Granite Flat have noted the serene environment, saying, "Overall a beautiful location."

What campers like:

  • Natural Beauty: Campers rave about the picturesque views. One happy camper at Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area said, "It's a solid option and there are some pretty mountain views."
  • Privacy: Many campgrounds offer a sense of seclusion. A visitor at Nunns Park noted, "Camp spots are snug but do the job... Great little secluded access points into the river."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Mountain Valley RV Resort are great for families. One reviewer mentioned, "Everything was clean and so easy to use! We will definitely be back."

What you should know:

  • Busy Seasons: Campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Strawberry Bay advised, "It’s FCFS and gets really busy, so arrive early in the morning."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Little Mill, have basic facilities. A visitor mentioned, "The site is off the main canyon road and there is some traffic noise during the day."
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise from nearby roads or other campers. One camper at Lakeside RV Campground said, "You are also in the flight path of Provo's airport."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities like playgrounds and clean bathrooms. A reviewer at Springville / Provo KOA Holiday said, "Everything is clean and complete. Even the kitchen is clean and large in the hall."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. One family at Granite Flat enjoyed the quiet, saying, "It was so quiet the entire time we stayed here."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A camper at Nunns Park mentioned, "Wish there were showers. Great little secluded access points into the river."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Mountain Valley RV Resort noted, "We had a back-in site at the end of the row and there was a large grass area and fire pit that was great!"
  • Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. One camper at Lakeside RV Campground mentioned, "Pretty nice place for RV they have hookups full and nice bathroom that's clean and heated."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, so consider bringing earplugs. A camper at Little Mill said, "The road noise was a lot more than I expected."

For those looking for Top Dog Friendly Camping near Payson, UT, many campgrounds allow pets, making it easy to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Payson, UT?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Payson, UT is Dry Canyon with a 4.7-star rating from 6 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Payson, UT?

    TheDyrt.com has all 34 tent camping locations near Payson, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.