Equestrian camping near Santaquin, Utah offers access to extensive trail networks through the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. The area sits at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 9,000 feet, creating diverse camping conditions throughout the seasonal months. Summer temperatures in the higher elevation campgrounds typically range 10-15 degrees cooler than in the Santaquin valley, making them popular destinations during July and August.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: Payson Lakes offers a family-friendly fishing experience about 45 minutes from Santaquin. "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. from Payson Lakes.
Hiking to waterfalls: The Diamond Campground provides access to the Fifth Water Hot Springs trail, located about 2.5 miles from the campsite. "About a 2 1/2 mile drive from the fifth water hot springs trail. No hookups - if you are in an RV this is a dry campground. This is the only campground open late Fall," shares Chantel S. from Diamond Campground.
Paddleboarding on mountain reservoirs: Several small reservoirs near the Granite Flat Campground offer non-motorized water recreation. "The water was cool and there were tons of people there with paddle boards, canoos, tents, and dogs," reports Ash S., who visited during the summer season.
What campers like
Secluded horse camping sites: The upper elevation sections at Blackhawk Horse Camp offer more privacy than standard camping areas. "My favorite thing is how secluded it is. Definitely would recommend," says Becky J. about her experience at Blackhawk.
Mountain views and cooler temperatures: Campers appreciate the higher elevations that provide relief from summer heat. Monica W. from Diamond Campground notes, "We came here middle of the week and stayed in B57 in the upper loop. We basically had the place to ourselves and it was lush in green in mid June."
Natural water features: The sound of flowing water enhances many camping experiences in the area. At Nunns Park, campers enjoy the riverside setting: "The river is right there and makes some beautiful yet subtle white noise. It is in provo canyon and the cliffs on either side are very impressive," according to Helen A. from Nunns Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds in the area require advance booking, especially for equestrian sites. Andrea P. from Blackhawk Horse Camp advises: "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."
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Free camping options like Soldier's Pass lack amenities. "FREE! No amenities! Must carry in all water. Shooting Range nearby. Great for ATVs and off road vehicles," warns Michelle B. about this dispersed camping area.
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate only from late May through early October due to elevation. Whitney J. mentions that Granite Flat Campground is at "about 6400 ft- so no spring camping."
Tips for camping with families
Choose shaded campsites: Summer heat can be intense at lower elevations. Carol B. from Whiting Campground shares: "Every site had shade with concrete parking and fire pit. Great place for families."
Look for kid-friendly water access: Several campgrounds offer safe places for children to play. "Great for fishing. Very fun for kids," recommends Courtney S. about Payson Lakes, which provides shallow areas suitable for young children.
Bring insect protection: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially near water. "The only downside was that this year there were an obscene amount of mosquitoes," warns Ash S. about their summer visit to Granite Flat Campground.
Tips from RVers
Check site limitations: Some horse campgrounds accommodate RVs better than others. Joshua J. cautions about Blackhawk: "I would reserve a spot ahead of time, avoiding any site in loop 'E'. That loop is for those planning to camp with horses. There are hitching posts at every site, therefore, lots of horse poo."
Water access varies by campground: Many sites require bringing your own water supply. At Maple Lake Campground, Tad W. notes: "There is no water at the campsites. You have to go to the camp host and they have a water spigot there to get water."
Consider elevation for temperature comfort: Higher elevation campgrounds offer relief from summer heat. "It's very close (10 minutes) to shopping including Costco and Walmart, good food like In-n-Out, Five Guys, and Longhorn Steak House. It really is a perfect place to resupply and still feel like you haven't left nature," says Michael L N. about Spanish Fork River Park's convenient location at lower elevation.
