Dispersed camping near Santaquin, Utah offers several options for outdoor enthusiasts at elevations ranging from 4,500 to nearly 8,000 feet. The surrounding Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest terrain features both desert-like conditions in lower elevations and alpine environments in higher areas. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during day hours but can drop to 40-50°F overnight.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Payson Lakes provides a non-motorized lake ideal for fishing. "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.
Short hiking trails: Multiple trails with varying difficulty levels surround the camping areas. "Hike the grotto because it's a short hike and so close to the campground," suggests Veronica S., who camped at Payson Lakes with her family.
Mountain biking: The forest roads and designated trails offer terrain for cyclists. "Lots of bike trails and amazing views all around," reports Brad B., who considers Payson Lakes "one of my favorite summer get away spots."
Horseback riding: Uinta National Forest Blackhawk Campground features dedicated equestrian sites. Andrea P. shares: "We booked equestrian sites up at the top - highest elevation. Good views, pavilions, fire pits and pit toilets. Don't have to have horses to book equestrian."
What campers like
Secluded spots: Campers appreciate finding quiet locations away from crowds. At Blackhawk Campground, Becky J. notes that "my favorite thing is how secluded it is."
Lake activities: Lakeside RV Campground provides easy water access. "We enjoyed a one night stay. Pull through sites with grass between. Pool was very nice," writes Denise P.
Affordable options: Free dispersed camping appeals to budget-conscious travelers. "This is a great spot just a about 2 miles off the main highway. It's paved until you get to the campground turn off which is a good dirt road. Wide open space with tons of options to tent or RV," explains Aliyah B. about Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area.
Scenic views: The surrounding mountains create dramatic backdrops. Jessica from Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area advises: "If you keep going up the mountain there is a super small turn off to the right then brings you up a little hill and there's a few more sites... The view is amazing."
What you should know
Seasonal conditions: Summer heat can be intense during daytime hours. "The initial campground was definitely an RV only type of place as there was no coverage to take care of business. But if you keep going up the road there are more than a few turnouts worth staying at for those of us with tents," advises Andrew S. about Sheep Creek.
Reservation needs: Popular sites fill quickly, especially in summer. "Great campground. Popular and crowded. Should reserve well in advance or get there early for the walk-in sites," recommends David C. about Payson Lakes.
Campsite sizes: Sites vary considerably in size and spacing. "Their normal campsites are really small. We'd actually accidentally set up residence in a double spot without knowing it. So that was unexpected, given the spots are kind of pricey already," reports Sheila M. from Payson Lakes.
Potential crowds: Miner's Canyon Dispersed can get busy despite being free. Katie D. notes: "The few times we've stayed here we've enjoyed ourselves, but this seems to be a very popular spot; on several occasions we've made the 1+ hour drive out here, only to find every single spot taken."
Tips for camping with families
Look for shaded sites: "Great campground. Bathrooms and drinking water available. Lots of shade. Easy walk to the lake. Great fishing. Very fun for kids," says Courtney S. about Payson Lakes.
Water activities: Lakeside options keep children engaged. "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 Ut," shares James B. about Payson Lakes, adding: "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."
Dog-friendly options: Many campgrounds welcome pets with specific rules. "It does have running water and a hole in the ground bathroom to use. I would be back again, the only real complaint is that it feels too pricey. One night is $23 and an additional vehicle is $8," explains Shantelle P. who camped at Payson Lakes.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Springville / Provo KOA Holiday, site size matters. "Spots are a little tight. Noise level is a 5. Near the hwy but not next to. It's a good place to stay and the monthly rates are fair," explains Nicholas L.
Access considerations: Check road conditions before attempting with larger rigs. "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," warns Rick W. about Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area.
Water management: Some campgrounds require water regulators. "Make sure to follow the instructions to get to the RV park or else you'll end up driving your rig through a tiny parking lot to turn around. The golf course and mountain range is very nice. However, the spots are not level, and the water pressure is high. Make sure you have a water regulator," advises Kelly N. about Gladstan Golf Course & RV park.
