Tent campsites near Snowbird, Utah require proper preparation due to significant elevation changes and seasonal access restrictions. Most dispersed sites sit at 8,000-10,500 feet elevation where temperatures can drop below freezing even in summer months. Camping areas around Little Cottonwood Canyon feature dense evergreen forests interspersed with aspen groves and alpine meadows.
What to do
Fishing at alpine lakes: Red Pine Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities with large trout visible in the clear waters. One visitor noted, "Both lakes were loaded with large trout, but I didn't have a fishing rod, so all I could do was look at them this time."
Paddleboarding at Silver Lake: The reservoir provides calm waters perfect for paddleboarding during summer months. According to a camper at Silver Lake Backcountry, "We hiked 1,000 vertical feet to Silver Lake. It was so beautiful. We spent our afternoons paddleboarding on Silver Lake Reservoir."
Peak bagging from backcountry sites: Access multiple summits from tent sites near the ridgelines. A reviewer camping at Red Pine Lake shared, "If you make your way through the talus field to the south you can gain the ridge and summit white baldy which gives one of the best views in the entire Wasatch!"
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. A camper at Millcreek Canyon mentioned, "Everytime we come here we also see moose and deer. Best time is definitely fall."
What campers like
Secluded weekday camping: Midweek visits offer significantly more solitude at popular backcountry lakes. A camper noted, "The weekend can get very busy so during the week is the best time to camp as it's likely you'll be the only overnight camper."
Natural water sources: Many hiking routes to tent sites follow streams, reducing the need to carry large amounts of water. One backpacker explained, "The hike up to the lake starts off pretty easily, and since it follows the stream coming down, clean drinking water is always at hand. I didn't have to carry anything beyond my little half liter filter bottle."
Diverse terrain options: The area offers both high-elevation alpine sites and lower canyon camping. A visitor to Dispersed Camping--Mill Hollow shared, "Great escape from the SLC Valley heat...a short 1.5 hour drive and temp drops 20 degrees from the valley."
Hammock camping opportunities: Some areas provide better options for hammocks than tent pads. A camper at Dutchman Mine Flats explained, "Unfortunately, the majority of the ground camping is relatively rocky and uneven, but there are some gems. If you're one of the first up, you will be very likely to get a good spot."
What you should know
Vehicle access limitations: Many dispersed sites require high-clearance or 4WD vehicles. A visitor reported, "You're definitely going to need 4WD and high clearance because the roads leading up to the campsite are filled with ruts and holes."
Camping distance requirements: Regulations require setting up camp at specific distances from developed areas and water sources. A camper noted, "You can't drive to the coordinates, you have to park at the uppermost parking lot for Silver Flat and hike up to a camping spot. Camping anywhere along that road will give you gorgeous views, though! Saw lots of people camping super close to the lake and even along the shores, which is not allowed."
Storm preparedness: Alpine weather can change rapidly with intense winds at higher elevations. One overnight visitor warned, "It stormed pretty hard in the middle of the night, and since the lake is up near the top of the mountain, it got pretty windy. Be prepared for significant foul weather and choose your campsite appropriately."
Seasonal road closures: Many tent camping access points remain closed until mid-summer. A recent visitor to Millcreek Canyon cautioned, "Camping doesn't open until July 1st so take that into account."
Tips for camping with families
Reservoir recreation: Some areas offer both camping and water activities suitable for families. A camper shared, "We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river. Just a fun time."
Dog-friendly options: Millcreek Canyon permits dogs on trails, unlike watershed canyons. A visitor noted, "This is one of the only canyons that allows dogs!"
Lower elevation alternatives: When high-elevation sites are inaccessible due to snow or weather, consider lower canyon options. A camper suggested, "The campsites are beautiful, and within walking distance to the trailhead to hike the 2.2 mile hike up to Silver Lake."
Educational opportunities: Some camping areas provide learning experiences for children. A visitor to Anderson Park mentioned, "This park allows for camping and accommodates small or large groups. Several fire pits, large covered lighted pavilion with three rows of picnic tables."
Tips from RVers
Designated RV areas: True RV camping near Snowbird is limited to developed sites with proper facilities. Anderson Park offers some accommodation for small RVs with "Flushing toilets. Irrigation ditches run throughout the park with bridges for crossing. Rents for $25."
Primitive setup: Most tent campsites near Snowbird, Utah lack RV amenities like hookups or dump stations. A reviewer warned, "Warning - road is closed 3.5 miles into the park before where camping spots were indicated. No notice on when it would reopen. Also to highlight this is WALK IN camping only. No car camping or RVs as it requires you to be 1/2 mile off the road."
