Pet friendly camping near Springville, Utah accommodates various camping styles across elevation ranges from 4,600 to over 8,000 feet. The Spanish Fork Canyon area offers multiple camping options within a 30-minute drive of Springville, with many sites remaining open year-round. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F during day with cooler 50-65°F nights at higher elevations.
What to do
Hike to hot springs: Diamond Fork features mineral hot springs accessible via a 2.4 mile trail. "I did not camp here, but I did hike here. Absolutely beautiful views if you take the gravel road off of Diamond Fork Road. Cows everywhere! Highly recommend, the Hot Springs were closed due to COVID-19 at the time, but appear beautiful from pictures, definitely worth the trip!" shares a Diamond Fork visitor.
Fish in nearby waters: Utah Lake provides freshwater fishing opportunities. "The lake is nice, with fun fishing holes. Be sure to wear bug repellent," notes a camper who stayed at Diamond Fork. Payson Lakes also offers fishing particularly suitable for younger anglers. "Great fishery for children and youth, as well as an amazing area for swimming and kayaking," says a reviewer at Payson Lakes.
Mountain biking trails: Nearby trails accommodate various skill levels. "This campground is at the top of Squaw Peak, a 4-5 mile twisty paved road that overlooks the Provo valley. Nice overlooks nearby," mentions a visitor to Hope Campground.
What campers like
Proximity to urban areas: Many sites offer quick access from Springville. "If you like to get away, but not take hours to drive there, this is a good option. There are a few trails you can take your kids on around the campground," notes a camper at Hope Campground.
Lakeside views: Camping near water remains popular. "I'm enjoying the views from this spot, it's flat after a wiggle or two. The lake isn't safe to swim or drink from at this time due to algae," explains a visitor at Miner's Canyon Dispersed. Another camper appreciates Nunns Park's natural soundtrack: "The river is right there and makes some beautiful yet subtle white noise."
Free dispersed options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate no-cost sites. "This is a great spot just 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," shares a camper at Sheep Creek Dispersed.
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Access to some sites requires appropriate vehicles. "We fought hard to get to the spot. Up to Hood Campground, the road was a normal, winding road. Really great. After that, however, a stretch began that was really only suitable for 4WDs. Rocks, deep ruts, etc.," warns a visitor to Squaw Peak Road Dispersed.
Seasonal limitations: Many campgrounds have limited seasons. "Needed an easy spot to land after too many hours on the road. I was the only camper that night, so complete privacy. Beautiful views and great opportunities to hike all around," shares a camper at Hope Campground.
Bug issues at some locations: Insects can affect camping comfort. "The sites are trashed. I think people live here full time. There's giant fly swarms all over that you hear buzzing all night," notes a camper at Nunns Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid amenities: Some established campgrounds offer child-friendly features. "We stayed here as a brief stop over to wash some clothes and to get back to civilization for a few days. The place had friendly staff and was clean. Had some fun things for kids like a pool and a bowling alley," shares a Springville/Provo KOA visitor.
Nature trails with educational content: Some sites offer learning opportunities. "This campground is very kid friendly. There are painted bear tracks that tell a story in and around the two loops of the park," notes a Diamond Fork visitor.
Lake activities without motorized boats: Certain lakes prohibit motors, creating safer environments for children. "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," explains a Payson Lakes camper.
Tips from RVers
Leveling and site surfaces: RVers should note site conditions. "Paved, clean, close to shopping and gas. Nothing special. Safe," reports an RVer who stayed at Springville/Provo KOA.
Hookup availability varies: Not all campgrounds offer electrical connections. "Full hook-up site was surprisingly spacious with green space in-between and trees for shade. Facilities are clean and comfortable and camp store is well stocked," shares a visitor to Lakeside RV Campground.
Generator noise at dispersed sites: Noise considerations affect dispersed camping experience. "A little loud from the generators but sound of waves from the lake help drown it out. Some established fire pits. Overall the place was clean and felt safe," notes a Miner's Canyon Dispersed camper.
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