Camping in the Wasatch Mountains near Snowbird, Utah ranges from established campgrounds to dispersed sites at elevations between 6,400-7,400 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during daytime with significant cooling to 45-55°F overnight due to the mountain altitude. Several campgrounds in Big Cottonwood and Little Cottonwood canyons offer alternatives to glamping close to Snowbird, Utah with varying levels of amenities and accessibility.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: The area surrounding Granite Flat connects to numerous fishing lakes and trails. According to Whitney J., "It's clean. Has access to many fishing lakes and hiking trails!" For more challenging hikes, explore the trails near Timpanogos where Kerry E. reports, "We hiked up the Emerald Lake at the basin of MT. Timpanogos, and set up camp there. Water is available through the glacial Emerald Lake."
Off-road adventures: Trails accessible from campgrounds accommodate various vehicle types. The Little Deer Creek area offers rugged terrain as Samuel notes, "Would be a great drive though if you have a 4x4." Visitors seeking OHV access will find suitable terrain near campgrounds in American Fork Canyon.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple streams and small reservoirs permit fishing near campsites. Tom B. from Spruces - Big Cottonwood shares, "I just recently stayed at the Spruces. Loved it. Very peaceful. I stayed in campground #47. Right near the end of the loop before it's goes into the peaceful forest section. Great one. Right by water." Some campgrounds have catch-and-release ponds for less experienced anglers.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The elevation provides relief from valley heat. Andrea P. describes Granite Flat: "The elevation is about 6400 ft- so no spring camping. Book EARLY! This campsite is always full." This makes luxury tent camping near Snowbird particularly appealing during summer months.
Wildlife encounters: Many visitors report animal sightings. Outdoor T. from Redman Campground shares, "Very nice campground with water running in multiple places, clean multiple bathrooms and incredible wildlife coming right into your site. In Addison to numerous deer, we had two moose munching away at the willow at the adjacent site."
Winter accessibility: Some campgrounds transform for winter recreation. Shilah M. notes about Spruces, "Wonderful winter wonder land you can snowshoe into in the winter and camp at! You can also stay here during the summer just be prepared to book a couple months in advance!" This extends the glamping season at select Snowbird-adjacent locations into colder months.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. Ash S. warns about Granite Flat: "Be aware that this campsite reservations for the weekend fill up quick. I checked in late may and every weekend until September was already booked." Plan 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends.
Water restrictions: Watershed protections limit water activities. Jason H. cautions about Tanners Flat: "The nearby creek is pretty, but you cannot so much as wade in it without facing prosecution and a $1500 fine." Always check current regulations before arrival.
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires appropriate vehicles. Jim H. shares about Little Deer Creek: "The drive though can be a little rough...I was in a 2014 Explorer and it took us roughly a half hour to drive the 5 miles up to camp. If you have a 4X4, it should be no issue." Consider vehicle capabilities when selecting alternative camping options to upscale tents near Snowbird.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds include recreation areas. Brad B. describes Little Mill: "There is a huge spot of grass that you can play sports or baseball on. Can't remember the site we had but there was a huge rock that was fun for the scouts to climb on."
Multiple bathroom facilities: Family-friendly campgrounds maintain clean restrooms. Jill B. reports about Redman: "There are flush toilets and water spigots. We've used one of the group sites and a double site, and they are very roomy. The camp hosts have always been attentive, too."
Gate closure timing: Some campgrounds restrict nighttime entry. Brad B. warns: "Make sure you get camped and in because they lock the gate coming into campground at 11PM and you have to hike in." Plan family arrivals accordingly to avoid complications with tired children.
Tips from RVers
Site positioning: RV spots vary in quality and shade. One camper noted about Nunns Park: "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." Consider noise factors when selecting sites.
Hookup availability: Limited full-hookup sites exist near Snowbird. Christopher W. described River's Edge: "Rv spaces kinda closely packed but still big enough to get our awning out. Camp sits at the base of the dam." Most nearby campgrounds offer partial hookups only.
Length restrictions: Many mountain campgrounds cannot accommodate larger RVs. Jason H. observed about Tanners Flat: "The campground is pretty, but it is not for family camping with a tent. This campground has pull-through areas for people towing camping trailers, but not much for those that want to set up a full-size tent and lounge around outside." Verify size restrictions before booking.
