Equestrian camping near Springville, Utah offers direct access to mountain trails through diverse terrain ranging from aspen groves to alpine meadows. Most camping areas sit between 5,000-7,500 feet elevation, providing cooler temperatures in summer months. The area typically sees afternoon thunderstorms during July and August, with forest roads sometimes becoming muddy after rainfall.
What to do
Fishing at Payson Lakes: The area features stocked lakes that provide good fishing opportunities without motorized boats. "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. about Payson Lakes.
Hiking to hot springs: From camping areas near Spanish Fork Canyon, hikers can access natural hot springs. "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," explains Chantel S. about camping near the springs.
Mountain biking: The alpine loop provides various skill-level trails for mountain bikers. "The hiking around this area was amazing. We absolutely enjoyed these trails. We did a hike that about 10 miles roundtrip with low elevation gain," reports Analia F. after staying at Mount Timpanogos Campground.
What campers like
Access to running water: Many campers appreciate sites near streams or rivers. "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," mentions Helen A. about camping at Nunns Park.
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation campsites provide relief from summer heat. "We didn't spend much time during the day as we were visiting relatives near Provo and enjoyed the cooler getaway in the evening," shares Daniel L. about the Mount Timpanogos area.
Proximity to town: Some campsites combine natural settings with convenient access to services. "This is one of the closest campgrounds to Provo. It is quick and easy for the kind of trip to just get away but it won't feel like you are backwoods because of the smallness of the park and closeness to a very busy highway," reports Kyler N.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many popular sites fill quickly during summer months. "Reservations required and $24 base price - yikes!" notes Bryce B. about one campground, indicating the importance of planning ahead for established sites.
Limited privacy at some sites: Campgrounds vary in spacing between sites. "It's a beautiful campsite near water with well kept facilities. However, you're quite close to other campers' tents/cars and in the morning bikers/joggers run by you on the path," explains Tiffany A. about her experience.
Free dispersed options: For those seeking budget options for horse camping, Sheep Creek offers free sites. "This camping area is far enough from the highway that you do not hear or see any of the traffic yet it's only a 2-3 minute drive. The camping area is slightly slopped and grassy with an open lot with a wooden fence on both sides," describes one reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Lakes and streams provide entertainment for children. "Great shade, cool breezes and close to the falls. This place has it all," mentions Nathan J. about family-friendly options at Nunns Park.
Short hiking opportunities: Look for campgrounds with easy trails nearby. "We definitely recommend it. 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. Also 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," advises a camper at Willow Park Campground.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play areas. "Great campground. Bathrooms and drinking water available. Lots of shade. Easy walk to the lake. Great fishing. Very fun for kids," notes Courtney S. about family amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing limitations: Many mountain campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "Nice little park, sites are a little close. 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," shares Michael L. about an established campground.
Hookup availability: Most horse camping areas have minimal or no hookups. "Sites are small and primarily tent sites. There are a couple sites which would accommodate a small 16 ft trailer. We had to unhook and park diagonal to fit small trailer and short truck," explains Daniel L. about Granite Flat campground.
Level parking considerations: Horse trailers require sufficient space. "The spots are close together and if you have noisy neighbors you won't get much sleep. On the plus side it's next to a nice river to fish at and the bathrooms are well maintained," reports Matt R. about an RV-friendly option.