Camping in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest ranges from 6,400-7,400 feet elevation, with a camping season typically spanning April through October due to snowfall patterns. The Pleasant Grove area sits along the Wasatch Front with canyons offering access to numerous dispersed and established camping locations within 30-45 minutes of town.
What to do
Explore Granite Flat fishing spots: Located in American Fork Canyon, this campground provides direct access to multiple fishing lakes near the campsite. "[Granite Flat] has access to many fishing lakes and hiking trails!" notes Whitney J. The elevation keeps temperatures cooler than valley locations, making it comfortable for summer trips.
Hike Mt. Timpanogos from dedicated trailheads: Timpooneke campground sits at the base of popular trails leading to the summit. "Great hiking next to this campsite," writes John M. The proximity allows for early morning summit attempts. "It's a nice site right at the base of the timpooneke trail that leads to summit of my timp. Not free, but a great way to be there for a head start on the sunrise hike," explains Trip A.
Paddle board on nearby reservoirs: Granite Flat campers can access Tibble Fork and Silver Lake Flat reservoirs for water activities. "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," shares Kaitlin R. Both reservoirs prohibit motor sports, creating a peaceful environment.
Join paragliders at Flight Park: This unique camping area doubles as a paragliding launch site. "When we woke up there were paragliders ready to glide. Which was cool," reports Santiago V. The location provides unusual entertainment as gliders take off throughout daylight hours.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Little Mill campground features sites directly alongside American Fork Creek. "Great relaxing family time, fishing on river close, close to tribble fork and silver lakes," notes Monica B. The sound of flowing water creates a natural white noise effect. "We LOVED Little Mill! It has the smell of pine trees, a babbling brook, and it is just down the road from Timpanogos Cave National Monument," reports Stacy R.
Proximity to Salt Lake Valley: Many campgrounds in the area sit remarkably close to urban areas while feeling remote. "This is super close to my favorite mountain bike ride in Northern Utah - The Wasatch Crest Trail," says Brendan A. about Redman Campground. The location allows for quick access to glamping close to Pleasant Grove, Utah even on weeknights.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers frequently report seeing animals near their sites. "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," shares an Outdoor T. review of Redman Campground.
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation offers relief from summer heat. "It stays relatively cool, even in the summer time," notes Brendan A. Most glamping options near Pleasant Grove sit between 6,000-7,400 feet, providing 10-15 degree cooler temperatures than the valley floor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary significantly: While glamping locations require advance booking, many established campgrounds fill quickly too. "Be aware that this campsite reservations for the weekend fill up quick. I checked in late may and every weekend until September was already booked," cautions Ash S. about Granite Flat.
Seasonal access limitations: Mt. Timpanogos campground and others at higher elevations have shorter seasons. "High elevation(7400ft) campground up the popular Alpine Loop. Book EARLY- its very popular," advises Andrea P. Many roads close during winter, with spring opening dates varying based on snowpack.
Watershed regulations affect pets: Some canyons prohibit dogs entirely due to watershed protection. "We had planned to camp here but dogs are not allowed. This campground looked like an awesome spot," explains Natalie B. about Redman Campground. Verify pet policies before booking glamping accommodations near Pleasant Grove.
Wind patterns impact tent camping: Some locations experience significant winds. "Definitely windy so the camper van was rocking but glad we found it," reports Courtney S. about Flight Park. Staking tents properly is essential in these exposed areas.
Tips for camping with families
Seek out campgrounds with recreational facilities: Spruces campground offers additional amenities for children. "There is a huge spot of grass that you can play sports or baseball on. Can't remember the site we had but there was a huge rock that was fun for the scouts to climb on," shares Brad B. about a nearby location.
Choose sites near water features: Children often enjoy playing near streams and rivers. "Little Mill campground was a nice place. We camped next to a small stream which added nice background noise," explains Kimberly W. Just verify water access rules, as some watersheds restrict any water contact.
Consider glamping yurts for easier family trips: Yurt accommodations near Pleasant Grove provide structural stability during poor weather. "Our family adores this location. Great staff, clean toilets, stunning camping areas near the river, some directly on it!" raves Claire L. about Little Mill's accommodations.
Plan for mosquitoes near water: Utah Lake State Park and other waterfront locations can have significant insect activity. "The mosquitoes here are terrible. I came here early on a holiday to get a good spot and was ambushed by swarms of mosquitoes," warns Bren M. Pack appropriate repellent, especially for evening hours.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions before booking: Many canyon campgrounds have limited space for larger vehicles. "Nice little park, sites are a little close. Our 20' trailer does fine," notes Michael L. about Nunns Park. Older campgrounds often weren't designed for modern RV sizes.
Understand hookup limitations: While glamping near Pleasant Grove offers various amenities, most established campgrounds provide only basic services. "Redman has always been one of our favorite campgrounds in Big Cottonwood Canyon. The campsites are clean, the bathrooms are exceptionally clean with flushing toilets," shares Kristin H. "We camped there with tents and a Sprinter and it was perfect."
