Best Tent Camping near South Salt Lake, UT
Numerous tent campsites in the canyons surrounding South Salt Lake, Utah offer wilderness experiences within an hour's drive of the city. Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping provides tent-only sites that require campers to hike at least half a mile from developed areas. Red Pine Lake and Lake Blanche Trail offer established backcountry tent camping options in Little Cottonwood Canyon, both accessible only by hiking steep trails that gain significant elevation.
Most tent camping in the area requires permits and adherence to strict regulations. Fire restrictions vary by location and season, with complete fire bans at Red Pine Lake and Lake Blanche Trail backcountry sites. Millcreek Canyon charges a $5 entrance fee per vehicle, and its camping season typically runs from July 1 through fall. Sites generally lack amenities, with no drinking water, picnic tables, or trash service available at most backcountry locations. Many areas prohibit camping within 200 feet of water sources, as these serve as watershed areas for local communities.
Backcountry tent camping in these areas rewards hikers with alpine lakes, wildlife sightings, and relative solitude on weekdays. Silver Lake Backcountry offers tent sites with spectacular views of Mount Timpanogos and requires either a half-mile hike or high-clearance 4WD vehicle access, depending on current road conditions. Fishing opportunities exist at several of these alpine lakes, though strict watershed regulations prohibit swimming. A camper noted that "Red Pine Lake is magically beautiful, and at least during the week in mid August, is relatively uncrowded at night." Early arrival is recommended for securing parking at trailheads during summer weekends, as day hikers frequently fill these areas by mid-morning.
