Tent camping options near Salem, Utah extend beyond established sites into scenic backcountry areas. The region sits at elevations ranging from 4,500 to 9,000 feet, creating temperature variations that campers can leverage during hot summer months. Forest Service roads throughout Utah County provide access to numerous dispersed camping sites where tent campers can find solitude on weekdays.
What to do
Fishing access: Wasatch National Forest Sulphur Campground offers river fishing opportunities with multiple catch reports. "We did catch some fish on the river. You are 9 miles from Mirror Lake," notes Justin A., who appreciated the "cleanest restrooms" and "great tasting water."
Paddle sports: For tent campers seeking water recreation, Anderson Park provides excellent paddleboarding and fishing opportunities. "Loved it, great for Paddleboarding and fishing," according to Becky J. The park accommodates both small and large groups with multiple fire pits and a "large covered lighted pavilion with three rows of picnic tables."
Alpine hiking: Advanced tent campers looking for backcountry experiences can access multiple alpine lakes and peaks from a single base camp at some locations. The Red Pine Lake area allows hikers to "access 3 different beautiful lakes from this drainage and 2 beautiful peaks!" according to Shilah M. The 3-4 mile trail features "rather gradual" elevation gain for most of the route, though "the last mile or so is moderately difficult."
What campers like
Temperature advantages: Tent campers frequently mention cooler temperatures at higher elevation sites, which creates comfortable sleeping conditions even during summer heat. One camper at Silver Lake Backcountry noted, "Only 40-50 minutes away from Provo, UT area so easy to get away for a quick day or two of camping. Lots of hikes to do nearby, beautiful views, and place to paddle board, kayak, etc."
Night sky viewing: Many tent sites around Salem offer minimal light pollution for astronomy enthusiasts. Ethan H. described Hobble Right Fork Dispersed camping area: "Lower light pollution makes the stars pretty visible and there's lots of wildlife as well. I personally like the mix of meadows and trees."
River sound: Campers repeatedly mention the relaxing sound of flowing water at stream-adjacent sites. At Dry Canyon, Ethan H. described the experience: "You're a perfect distance from the river so you can listen to it as you fall asleep, but you don't have to worry about floating away."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Summer fire bans occur regularly throughout the region. At Paul Bunyon's Woodpile, campers can expect "no fires allowed" during high-risk periods, so bring alternative cooking methods.
Road conditions: Many tent camping access roads require appropriate vehicles. Connor P. noted about Hobble Right Fork Dispersed: "The area is accessible to normal cars (sedans/SUVs) from the main gravel road and if you wish to go further for more privacy, and a better spot in my opinion, you can turn off on a dirt road. For that, I'd recommend a vehicle with decent clearance."
Water availability: Most backcountry sites require campers to filter stream water. Justin A. at Wasatch National Forest Sulphur Campground described their solution: "We used a 5 gallon bucket and a water transfer pump from Harbor Freight to fill up our fresh tank."
Parking limitations: During peak seasons, parking at trailheads can fill quickly. Derek E. noted about Red Pine Lake: "Parking at the trailhead can be a bit crowded during peak season (between June and September) so arrive early in the day for a good spot."
Tips for camping with families
Scout camps: For family tent camping near Salem, consider scout facilities during non-scout weeks. Angela S. explains about Camp Maple Dell: "When it's not Scout week, the camp is available for others to enjoy. Activities aren't available, it's just a campground outside of Scout weeks."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Teach children about local wildlife by camping in areas with regular sightings. Whitney W. from Hobble Right Fork notes: "One thing to know is that you will likely encounter cattle. They roam all over the hills."
Park camping: For families seeking established facilities, public parks offer camping with amenities. Michelle B. shares about Anderson Park: "Animals allowed, 15 minutes from shopping, good hikes nearby, Battle Creek Falls is a close hike."
Tips from RVers
Length limitations: Even at established campgrounds, RV length is often restricted by narrow roads and sites. At Wasatch National Forest Sulphur Campground, Justin A. observed: "The camp spots are narrow, the road in/out is narrow. Our 25ft trailer seemed to be a max length, but there were some 32 ft goosenecks and motor homes there."
Water refill strategies: RVers note limited water hookups at most sites around Salem. Justin A. shared their solution at Sulphur Campground: "We used a 5 gallon bucket and a water transfer pump from Harbor Freight to fill up our fresh tank."
Dispersed RV camping: For best tent camping near Salem, Utah without facilities, come prepared. Erik C. describes Paul Bunyon's Woodpile: "Road was easy enough dry, imagine it would be tough after a storm. There are a number of well dispersed sites, some with good wind protection, others less so."
