Camping options near Salem, Utah range from developed sites at 6,400 feet elevation to lakeside accommodations below 5,000 feet. The area experiences warm summer days with temperatures typically reaching 85-90°F while dropping to comfortable 50-60°F at night in mountain campgrounds. The camping season generally runs May through October with most facilities closing during winter months due to snowfall.
What to do
Fishing in secluded spots: Payson Lakes provides excellent fishing opportunities where anglers can catch trout in a peaceful setting. "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 James B. about Payson Lakes.
Hiking to hot springs: The Diamond Fork area offers access to natural hot springs via moderately challenging trails. "Definitely worth the trip! The Hot Springs were closed due to COVID-19 at the time, but appear beautiful from pictures," writes Zoe S. about her experience at Diamond Fork.
Family-friendly reservoir activities: Multiple small reservoirs in American Fork Canyon provide non-motorized water recreation. "Being that we already live in southern Utah county, this place has become a go to for our family. Only about 45 mins away from Payson," explains a visitor about their experience paddle boarding and kayaking.
What campers like
Natural privacy barriers: Camp Maple Dell features well-spaced sites with natural tree barriers providing seclusion. "Multiple tents fit per site. We had 6 tents, and had room for several more. Covered pavilion with three picnic tables connected end to end," reports Michelle B. about Camp Maple Dell.
Riverside camping options: Little Mill Campground offers sites directly adjacent to flowing water. "We had a great tent site that was on the side near the mountain and across from us were campsites next to the road and the river. We did not hear any road noise at all, just the sound of wind in the trees and the water flowing," shares Stacy R. about Little Mill.
Convenient access to recreation: Many campgrounds provide direct trail access to hiking and fishing. "Great campground. Bathrooms and drinking water available. Lots of shade. Easy walk to the lake. Great fishing. Very fun for kids," notes Courtney S. about her camping experience.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. "Book EARLY! This campsite is always full," warns Andrea P. about Granite Flat, a popular camping area.
Insect considerations: Mosquitoes can be problematic at some lakeside locations. "The mosquitoes here are terrible. I came here early on a holiday to get a good spot and was ambushed by swarms of mosquitoes," cautions one reviewer about Utah Lake State Park.
Access limitations: Some campgrounds have seasonal closures or restricted access. "The road to get to this spot is closed indefinitely. The surrounding area is full of closed roads making this spot inaccessible," reports a recent visitor attempting to access Granite Flat.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds feature nature trails designed specifically for children. "There are painted bear tracks that tell a story in and around the two loops of the park," explains Channon F. about Diamond Fork.
Playground access: Some sites include dedicated play areas. "This campground was really crowded when we went and we had really loud people right by us which was frustrating but overall it was a good site with a fun playground close by," mentions Lauralee A.
Wildlife viewing potential: Camping areas offer opportunities to see local wildlife. "We enjoyed seeing deer walk through our camp daily," shares a visitor about their glamping experience in Salem, Utah, noting the frequency of wildlife encounters.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer partial hookups or none at all. "We had a great tent site that was on the side near the mountain and across from us were campsites next to the road and the river," notes Stacy R. about Little Mill Campground.
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary significantly in size and proximity. "Our 20' trailer does fine. Close in to town, very pretty with Provo river next to it. Bike path and highway noise can be distracting," explains Michael L. about Nunns Park.
Rental alternatives: For those without camping equipment, glamping options provide comfort with minimal equipment needs. "If you don't want to drive for hours to unplug and enjoy nature, Maple Dell is just 5 miles up the Payson Canyon, has a lot of leafy trees for shade, most campsites have a pavilion and picnic table," explains a visitor about the glamping options near Salem.
