Dispersed camping opportunities surround Santaquin, Utah at elevations ranging from 4,600 feet in the valley to over 9,000 feet in the nearby Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. The region typically experiences temperatures between 75-90°F during summer days, dropping to 45-60°F at night in higher elevations. The Santaquin area receives most precipitation during spring and late summer monsoon seasons, often causing flash flooding in canyon areas.
What to do
Kayaking at Payson Lakes: Explore non-motorized boating at Payson Lakes, where the smaller lake size provides safer recreation for families. "The lake isn't too big so if your teen blows across the lake on his kayak or raft he can easily walk it back around the lake," notes camper James B.
Hiking the Grotto Trail: Located near Payson Lakes, this short trail offers accessibility for all skill levels. "Highly suggest coming here and hike the grotto because it's a short hike and so close to the campground," recommends Veronica S.
Fishing for beginners: Maple Lake Campground offers productive fishing in a scenic setting. "Lots of fish in the lake, great bike trails and amazing views all around. With it being a 15 minute drive from Payson makes for a great time," writes Brad B. about the area.
Watch the sunrise: Early risers should head to lakeside camping spots to catch spectacular morning views. "Don't miss the sunrise over the tree line on the lake. It was pretty full when we got here(it was a holiday weekend) but we off roaded a little bit and found a beautiful little haven," shares Veronica S.
What campers like
Mountain biking accessibility: The areas around Santaquin offer various trail systems for mountain biking enthusiasts of different skill levels. "Great bike trails and amazing views all around. With it being a 15 minute drive from Payson makes for a great time," notes a camper about the recreational opportunities.
Privacy between sites: Uinta National Forest Blackhawk Campground receives high marks for site spacing. "Very private and not crowded, even during the busiest weekends. Access to lots of pretty places to run around and explore. Great places for kids to play. Lots of tall pine trees," shares Sage H.
Non-traditional camping options: Horse-friendly sites at Blackhawk Campground can be booked by non-equestrian campers. "We booked equestrian sites up at the top - highest elevation. Good views, pavilions, fire pits and pit toilets. Don't have to have horses to book equestrian and they seem to be more available since I don't think people know this," advises Andrea P.
Free camping with lake views: Miner's Canyon Dispersed area provides no-cost camping with scenic vistas. "Easy drive into the area, paved road up until you turn down toward the lake. Nice gravel road for the next half mile... A little loud from the generators but sound of waves from the lake help drown it out," reports Clayton P.
What you should know
Seasonal bug swarms: Camping spots near Santaquin, Utah often experience heavy insect activity, particularly during summer months. "There are giant fly swarms all over that you hear buzzing all night," warns Jordan W. about Miner's Canyon.
Road conditions to dispersed sites: Access to free camping areas requires careful navigation. "Packed gravel and dirt road going in is lumpy from use but smooths out a bit farther in. Side roads to sites are anyones guess. Some are pretty reasonable, others are like mine fields. Suggest you park on the road and walk in," advises Susan C.
Campsite availability challenges: Popular camping locations fill quickly during peak season. "This campground can be hard to find a spot on busy weekends because it is so close to town," notes Brad B. about Payson Lakes area camping.
Potential for overcrowding: Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area offers free camping but with limited privacy. "Crowded, no facilities or privacy. Basically a field that everyone is camping in. Be wary that when it rains, this field turns into a super slick and deep mud," cautions Isabelle K.
Tips for camping with families
Choose shaded campgrounds: Summer heat affects many camping spots near Santaquin. "Lots of shade. Easy walk to the lake. Great fishing. Very fun for kids," shares Courtney S. about her experience at Payson Lakes.
Book equestrian sites for more space: Families needing extra room should consider horse-friendly sites. "Blackhawk is great if you can't find reservations elsewhere. We booked equestrian sites up at the top - highest elevation. Good views, pavilions, fire pits and pit toilets," suggests Andrea P.
Consider campground layout for kids: Lakeside RV Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "This place is very cute for established camping. It has lots of trees and a nice little walking trail. They are pet friendly. They have men's and women's restrooms with showers. They also have a pool for the warmer months," reports Erin A.
Know pet restrictions: Pet policies vary between campgrounds and camping types. "If you are tent camping they do not allow you to have pets," notes Erin A. about Lakeside RV Campground's tent camping area.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "The sites were super close together and there were neighboring dogs barking for most of our stay," cautions Paige J. about her experience at Payson Lakes.
Water pressure issues: Gladstan Golf Course & RV park requires preparation for high water pressure. "The spots are not level, and the water pressure is high. Make sure you have a water regulator," advises Kelly N.
Access route planning: RVers should research specific directions to avoid difficult turns. "Make sure to follow the instructions to get to the RV park or else you'll end up driving your rig through a tiny parking lot to turn around," warns Kelly N. about Gladstan Golf Course RV Park.
Dispersed camping clearance needs: High-clearance vehicles are needed for accessing certain free camping areas. "Some great spots up the hill but you'll need high clearance and 4wd," notes Susan C. about Miner's Canyon.
