Camping spots near Salem, Utah range from primitive dispersed sites to established campgrounds with reservable facilities. Access to Squaw Peak Road dispersed camping involves a challenging drive with "rocky, pothole-filled dirt roads that thin out" as you ascend. Most campgrounds operate seasonally between May and October, with higher elevation sites closing earlier due to snow accumulation. Lower elevation dispersed areas like Miner's Canyon remain accessible year-round for those seeking free camping options.
What to do
Fishing at multiple locations: Both Diamond Fork and Payson Lakes offer productive fishing for trout species. "Great fishery for children and youth, as well as an amazing area for swimming and kayaking. They do not allow motorized boats, so it is safe," notes a visitor to Payson Lakes.
Hike to hot springs: Diamond Fork Canyon provides access to Fifth Water Hot Springs, a popular natural attraction. "If you stay here make sure to take the time to hike up to fifth water hot pots it is amazing," recommends a camper at Diamond Fork. The trail is approximately 2.4 miles one-way.
Mountain biking: Spanish Oaks Campground connects to trail systems suitable for mountain biking. A visitor describes it as having "great mbt trails and easy access to paved Spanish Fork river trail." The area combines technical terrain with family-friendly paths.
Wildlife viewing: The mountains surrounding Salem support diverse wildlife populations. One camper at Diamond Fork reports: "I have seen elk, deer, moose, wild turkeys, and black bear in and around the area and campsite so don't leave food in your tent and clean up your campsite."
What campers like
Affordability at municipal parks: Spanish Oaks offers budget-friendly camping near Salem. "Clean campground with plenty of activities for the whole family. We loved the views from our camp spot, seeing the sun come up and down over the big lake out in the distance," shares a visitor to Spanish Oaks Campground.
Lake access for water activities: Utah Lake and smaller reservoirs provide water recreation opportunities. At Lakeside RV, a camper notes "We enjoyed a one night stay. Pull through sites with grass between. Pool was very nice. Cute little store."
Scenic mountain views: Squaw Peak Road's dispersed camping delivers panoramic vistas. "By far our most favorite campsite... It had plenty of room for tents amongst the trees and in the field," writes a visitor to Squaw Peak Road Dispersed who appreciates the elevated perspective.
Shaded campsites: Many established campgrounds offer tree cover for summer heat relief. A Diamond Fork visitor explains: "This is a great place to camp. You are really close to fifth water and the start of the trail to the hot pots. There is lots of big cotton wood trees for shade."
What you should know
Bugs and seasonal concerns: Utah Lake campgrounds experience significant insect activity during warm months. "The mosquitoes here are terrible. I came here early on a holiday to get a good spot and was ambushed by swarms of mosquitoes. You can literally watch them raise from the ground ready to attack," warns a camper at Utah Lake State Park.
Dispersed camping conditions: Free camping areas like Miner's Canyon often suffer from improper waste disposal. A visitor to Miner's Canyon Dispersed reports: "I didn't give Miner's Canyon five stars because of the excessive trash dumping that occurs at the sites. Otherwise it is a very enjoyable campsite."
Weather variability: Mountain campgrounds experience rapid weather changes, particularly at higher elevations. "We were able to find a nice pullout spot off of a side road for our pop up camper. There weren't many trees for shade and wind block, but the views are beautiful," reports a Sheep Creek camper.
Campsite spacing: Site proximity varies significantly between locations. A visitor to Nunns Park observed: "There were a couple spots that were semi private but most were very exposed. Lots of area on some of them though for multiple tents."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly education: Diamond Fork features interpretive trails designed for younger campers. "This campground is very kid friendly. There are painted bear tracks that tell a story in and around the two loops of the park," notes a reviewer at Diamond Fork.
Water safety considerations: Payson Lakes provides non-motorized water recreation suitable for families. A visitor explains: "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."
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. A camper at Lakeside RV Campground shares: "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."
Short hiking options: Many campgrounds connect to brief, manageable trails suitable for children. "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... Highly suggest coming here and hike the grotto because it's a short hike and so close to the campground," recommends a Payson Lakes visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at KOA: The Springville/Provo KOA offers full hookups but has space limitations. "The setup is generally the same at a lot of KOA. This well kept KOA has lots of amenities, but sites have zero privacy. Parking spots are paved. It does appear to have a few long term tenants," shares a visitor to Springville / Provo KOA Holiday.
Road condition warnings: Dispersed camping areas require vehicle preparation. A visitor to Sheep Creek notes: "Road is in ok shape. Only few places small vehicle can park. Not for RV's or larger trucks really. This site and one right next to it are the same. I could barely turn RV around to go out."
Seasonal access limitations: Higher elevation camping closes during winter months. "We stayed here at the end of the camp season. It's a nice campground, but the spots are a little confusing. First, their normal campsites are really small. We'd actually accidentally set up residence in a double spot without knowing it," reports a Payson Lakes camper regarding site confusion.
Generator noise considerations: Free camping areas often have no regulations on generator use. A Miner's Canyon visitor notes: "A little loud from the generators but sound of waves from the lake help drown it out. Some established fire pits. Overall the place was clean and felt safe."
