Tent camping near Rush Valley, Utah offers primitive options in high desert terrain situated between 5,000-7,000 feet elevation. The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations with summer days reaching 90°F and nights dropping to 50°F. Strong winds from the Great Salt Lake Basin frequently affect camping conditions, particularly in exposed dispersed sites.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: Access scenic hikes to Red Pine Lake from Little Cottonwood Canyon, approximately 40 miles northeast of Rush Valley. "I backpacked to Red Pine Lake (first backpacking in 10 years!) and had a great time. The trail up is well kept and the lake itself is stunning. Lots of streams everywhere too which I loved," shares a camper at Red Pine Lake.
Target practice: Public lands near Rush Valley permit shooting activities in designated areas. "This location is also right in an outdoor shooting range with multiple spots so that's a plus if you're looking for entertainment," notes a visitor to Skull Valley Rd Dispersed Camping.
Off-road exploration: The terrain supports ATV adventures on established trails. "Tons of dispersed camping areas along the 196. Beautiful views, wide open spaces and super quiet. Lots of ATV traffic during the day, but we rarely heard anything," reports a camper at Skull Valley Rd.
What campers like
Mountain fishing: Alpine lakes in the region offer fishing opportunities. "Silver lake is amazing and the river running is stunning with amazing hike or UTV Or ATV Riding," states a visitor at Silver Lake Backcountry.
Clear night skies: The remote setting provides excellent stargazing conditions. "The fall colors during the day and the stars during the night were spectacular!" notes a camper at Silver Lake Backcountry.
Creek-side campsites: Several campgrounds feature sites adjacent to water. "The campground itself was lovely. Very peaceful, good distance between sites. The camp host was really nice," reports a visitor at Loop Campground.
What you should know
Limited services: Most campgrounds lack amenities, requiring self-sufficiency. "I have a small SUV, so I buy firewood and fill up water containers after I've set up camp. I usually expect a decent drive to find what I need, but this involved a very long drive down a rutted gravel road, out of the canyon, and back to Grantsville. I think it was 40 minutes each way," warns a Loop Campground visitor.
Insect activity: Campers frequently encounter bugs, especially in summer months. "LOTS of mosquitoes and flies," reports a camper at Skull Valley Rd Dispersed Camping.
High-clearance vehicle requirements: Many access roads demand appropriate vehicles. "You're definitely going to need 4WD and high clearance because the roads leading up to the campsite are filled with ruts and holes," advises a camper at Silver Lake Backcountry.
Tips for camping with families
Alternative water recreation: For families seeking water activities beyond fishing, some areas provide paddleboarding options. "We spent our afternoons paddleboarding on Silver Lake Reservoir," shares a camper at Upper Narrows.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children may spot local fauna during camping trips. "We even saw a herd of deer run by our camp," reports a visitor at Silver Lake Backcountry.
Municipal park alternatives: For families wanting amenities, consider urban-adjacent options. "This park allows for camping and accommodates small or large groups. Several fire pits, large covered lighted pavilion with three rows of picnic tables. Large grassy field, two wooded areas...flushing toilets," notes a visitor at Anderson Park.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most tent camping areas near Rush Valley have restrictions for larger vehicles. "We brought a 30' RV with a lifted Ram 2500 and had no problem driving over the washouts," reports an RVer at Skull Valley Rd Dispersed Camping, though this experience is uncommon.
Day use for RVs: Consider setting up base camp for day activities rather than overnight stays. "This campground has beautiful views. It is a dry area and hot mid-summer, but good base for ATV, bike, and hunting areas," notes a visitor at Camp Eagle Mountain.
Seasonal road closures: RVers must research road conditions before attempting access. "Road is closed 3.5 miles into the park before where camping spots were indicated. No notice on when it would reopen," warns a camper at Millcreek Canyon.
