Tent camping near Payson, Utah provides access to multiple elevations within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, ranging from 5,000 to over 9,000 feet. The area receives approximately 18 inches of rainfall annually, creating diverse ecosystems from desert scrub at lower elevations to alpine meadows at higher points. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with nighttime temperatures dropping significantly at higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking to hot springs: Diamond Fork area near Dry Canyon offers hiking to natural hot springs. "My roommates and I camped here in late-September and loved it. It's a good location and pretty close to the hot springs but not so close that you can smell the sulfur," reports Jamie M.
Fishing in mountain streams: Multiple fishing opportunities exist along Diamond Fork River. "Really good fishing in both the fifth water river and Diamond Fork. The camp sites are first come first serve," shares Brad B., who camped at Dry Canyon.
Stargazing at higher elevations: For optimal stargazing, Hobble Right Fork Dispersed camping area provides clear night skies. "Lower light pollution makes the stars pretty visible and there's lots of wildlife as well. I personally like the mix of meadows and trees," notes Connor P.
Paddleboarding on nearby reservoirs: Visit Silver Lake Backcountry for water activities. "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.," suggests Bentz E.
What campers like
Stream-side camping: Campers appreciate sites near running water. "The river ran right by our site and it was lovely," notes Jamie M. about Dry Canyon. Another camper, Ash S., added, "Beautiful scenery. Lots of shade and dappled sunlight. River steps away. River not too cold."
Mountain views: Silver Lake Backcountry receives high marks for scenery. "The views make the drive there worth it, though. The fall colors during the day and the stars during the night were spectacular!" reports Ethan H.
Wildlife encounters: Payson Canyon area supports diverse wildlife. "I have seen elk, deer, moose, and black bear in this area so bring a camera and don't leave food in your tent," advises Brad B. at Dry Canyon. At Camp Maple Dell, Michelle B. reports, "We enjoyed seeing deer walk through our camp daily."
Flat tent sites: Campers frequently mention the quality of tent sites. According to Ethan H., Hobble Right Fork offers "plenty of dispersed camp sites with flat spots to pitch a tent."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to higher elevation sites requires careful planning. "The dirt road in was pretty rough, but manageable. Make sure you have a spare tire on you just in case," warns Ethan H. about Hobble Right Fork.
Creek crossings: Some sites require water crossings. At Silver Lake Backcountry, Michelle B. notes, "Must cross a creek with 12"-18" of water at least once and up to 4 times depending on which camp site you choose."
Cattle presence: Free-range cattle roam throughout public lands. "One thing to know is that you will likely encounter cattle. They roam all over the hills," advises Whitney W. about Hobble Right Fork. Ethan H. adds, "Lots of free ranges cows along the roads so be cautious."
Water sources: Not all sites provide drinking water. Natalie G. says about Dry Canyon: "This is a great spot for self-contained campers, van campers, or tent campers who don't need water. There's one pit toilet but for this small camp area, it does the trick."
Tips for camping with families
Group-friendly pavilions: Anderson Park offers organized facilities. Michelle B. reports, "This park allows for camping and accommodates small or large groups. Several fire pits, large covered lighted pavilion with three rows of picnic tables."
Scout-focused facilities: Families can utilize scout camps when not in use. Angela S. notes about Camp Maple Dell, "Yes, it's set up for Scouts, but when it's not Scout week, the camp is available for others to enjoy."
Water activities for kids: Multiple locations offer water recreation. According to Michelle B., at Silver Lake Backcountry, "We spent our afternoons paddleboarding on Silver Lake Reservoir."
Bathroom accessibility: Consider bathroom facilities when camping with children. The Wasatch National Forest Sulphur Campground offers "the cleanest restrooms" according to Justin A., who adds, "There were bear proof dumpsters for your bags of trash."
Tips for RVers
Length limitations: Larger RVs face challenges at most Payson area campgrounds. Justin A. notes about Sulphur Campground, "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: Plan for limited hookups. "We used a 5 gallon bucket and a water transfer pump from Harbor Freight to fill up our fresh tank," suggests Justin A. from Sulphur Campground.
Parking constraints: RVers should arrive early for limited parking. According to Ethan H., at Hobble Right Fork, "The area is accessible to normal cars (sedans/SUVs) from the main gravel road" but for better spots "you can turn off on a dirt road. For that, I'd recommend a vehicle with decent clearance."
