Tent campsites near North Ogden, Utah range from primitive backcountry spots to established camping areas within Wasatch Cache National Forest. The surrounding mountains reach elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet, creating significant temperature fluctuations even during summer months. Many remote sites lack facilities but compensate with direct access to fishing streams, wildlife viewing opportunities, and extensive trail networks.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Several primitive camping areas connect to trail systems suitable for various skill levels. At Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin, campers can directly access trails through forested terrain. "It's very quiet, barely any people. There's man made firepits made out of rocks of people who have stayed here," notes Hannah M.
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing: Winter camping options exist for cold-weather enthusiasts. The Green Canyon Yurt provides a unique winter base camp. "During the winter months, Powder Ridge manages the Green Canyon Road and grooms it on an almost daily basis. It is groomed for cross-country skiing with the designated track on one side," explains Steven E.
Wildlife observation: Early morning and dusk provide optimal wildlife viewing opportunities in less-developed camping areas. "Good hiking trails with great views and lots of animals to see," reports Ryan about Split Rock Bay Backcountry Campsites.
What campers like
Seasonal advantages: Spring wildflowers and fall colors enhance camping experiences in higher elevations. "Vyery surprised by this dispersed camping. Good Spread, amazing views and the road up ain't bad at all," writes Locoty C. about Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
Proximity to water features: Several tent sites provide water access for recreation. "Beautiful lake, nice beaches, but only if you go in the late summer or fall. Spring runoff makes this lake rise significantly, which completely submerged the beach we were playing on," advises Brendan A. about Port Ramp Marina.
Winter accessibility: Some areas transform completely during winter months. "This is a fantastic spot to go in the winter. Not only is it more beautiful in the winter, but it gets loads of snow for snow sports, and it is right next to Powder Mountain and Snow Basin," suggests Brendan A.
What you should know
Trail conditions: Many areas feature changing conditions throughout the year. "You can backpack in and camp anywhere a 1/2 mile from any road like the other nearby canyons. Good trails to approach from are Church fork and Lambs Canyon Trailhead," explains Alan B. about Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts.
Entry fees: Some camping areas require entrance fees separate from camping costs. "Be careful there is a $5 per car fee sneaking at the entrance," warns Conner about Millcreek Canyon.
Seasonal closures: Verify opening dates before planning trips. "The drive up is beautiful but there is actually no drive in camping. Camping doesn't open until July 1st so take that into account," advises Ryan G. about Millcreek Canyon.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner backpacking opportunities: Several short trails provide introductory backpacking experiences. "Aside from the excessive litter in a few places, this was a great place to give my 5 year old a taste of backpacking," shares Adam Z. about Cook Campsite.
Kid-friendly water activities: Look for sites with safe water access. "We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river. Just a fun time," reports Kelli R. about Millcreek Canyon.
Winter recreation options: Winter camping connects to family-friendly activities. "Huntsville, which is a ten minute drive away also has an awesome field that they turn into a skating rink, which is really fun for ice hockey and normal ice skating," notes Brendan A.
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Many remote camping areas have poor road conditions for larger vehicles. "About 1/4 mile down a dirt road from Hwy 39 is a good single boondocking spot with a great view. Not for large RVs. Our 17 ft trailer with 4x4 was tricky to get into the spot because the loop was so small," cautions Brian C. about Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
Primitive setups required: Most tent campsites near North Ogden that accommodate RVs lack hookups. "Awesome time love the dirt road love the trees the nature, everything about it basically the hills and country," says John C. about Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin, which provides primitive camping options for self-contained RV setups.
Hunting season awareness: Fall camping coincides with hunting activities in some areas. "Very popular for hunters in September, so you'll have lots of people walking right by your camp," warns Briana about dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
