Mounthaven camping offers rustic and developed options throughout the Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest area at elevations between 6,400-7,400 feet. Seasonal restrictions apply to most sites, with typical operating seasons running from late May through mid-October. Winter access exists in limited locations for hardy campers willing to snowshoe to certain sites.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several reservoirs and streams offer fishing within a short drive of camp. "We were able to paddle board which was a blast! I loves being so close and having access to so many beautiful hikes and Rick climbing. We were right next to a beautiful river," shared one visitor about Granite Flat Campground.
Waterfall hunting: Trails near campgrounds lead to seasonal cascades. At Little Mill, one camper noted, "Great relaxing family time, fishing on river close, close to tribble fork and silver lakes." The campground provides direct access to popular waterfalls in American Fork Canyon.
Off-season adventures: Winter camping opportunities exist for prepared visitors. "Wonderful winter wonder land you can snowshoe into in the winter and camp at! You can also stay here during the summer just be prepared to book a couple months in advance," reports one visitor about backcountry winter camping options.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Moose and deer frequently visit several campgrounds. At Redman Campground, one camper observed, "Wildlife abounds! Very nice campground with water running in multiple places, clean multiple bathrooms and incredible wildlife coming right into your site. In Addison to numerous deer, we had two moose munching away at the willow at the adjacent site."
River sites: Campsites alongside streams provide natural white noise. "The river that runs alongside is really pretty and if you cross the road there's a larger river and a trail where dogs can go off leash," notes a visitor to River's Edge at Heber Valley.
Mountain breezes: Higher elevation camps offer relief from summer heat. "Very large space. We fit a lot people there (only one tent) we were able to wake up and get on the trail and hike up to the glacier and camp," shared a camper at Mt. Timpanogos regarding the cooler temperatures at elevation compared to the valley.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most popular sites fill months in advance. A Twin Coves visitor advised, "Be aware of your travel plans and book early because the campground fills fast." Weekend availability becomes particularly scarce from June through August.
Pet restrictions: Some watersheds prohibit dogs entirely. "We had planned to camp here but dogs are not allowed. This campground looked like an awesome spot, location is right off the hwy close to Solitude and trails," noted one visitor about camping options in Big Cottonwood Canyon.
Elevation considerations: High camps require appropriate gear for cold nights. "The elevation is about 6400 ft- so no spring camping. Book EARLY! This campsite is always full," explained a camper regarding temperature variations that can drop below freezing even in summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Easy access options: Some sites accommodate young children better than others. At Nunns Park, one camper reported, "This is one of the closest campgrounds to Provo. It is quick and easy for the kind of trip to just get away but it won't feel like you are backwoods because of the smallness of the park and closeness to a very busy highway through Provo Canyon."
Play areas: Look for campgrounds with open spaces for activities. "Lots of area on some of them though for multiple tents. The river is right there and makes some beautiful yet subtle white noise," noted a family camper at Nunns Park about the layout.
First-time options: Beginner-friendly sites provide a gentler introduction. "We live in the Valley but need a getaway for a weekend and this was perfect. Not only was it less than 20 min from our house we felt as if we were lost in the wilderness," shared a local about discovering easy glamping options near Mounthaven.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Check reviews for level sites with adequate space. At Timpooneke, a visitor observed, "The campground is well maintained and nestled into some nice pine trees in view of the backside of Mount Timpanogos, it is divided into 3 areas, one of which has horse corrals."
Size restrictions: Some campgrounds cannot accommodate larger vehicles. "Not really a bad site in the campground. However it fills up fast and is about impossible to get a site on the weekend without a reservation," noted a camper about the limited availability for RVs at certain locations.
Hookup availability: Most forest service campgrounds lack electrical connections. For those seeking glamping in Mounthaven with full hookups, options like River's Edge provide "nice place with trees and large play areas for kids. Rv spaces kinda closely packed but still big enough to get our awning out. Camp sits at the base of the dam."
