The Wasatch Mountains provide tent campers near Cottonwood Heights with alpine camping opportunities ranging from 7,000 to over 10,000 feet in elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 40-80°F at higher elevations, offering cooler alternatives to the Salt Lake Valley heat. Many tent sites require campers to hike in with all necessary supplies and follow strict watershed protection rules.
What to do
Fishing at alpine lakes: Silver Lake Backcountry offers excellent trout fishing opportunities. According to one camper, "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."
Hiking to multiple destinations: From Red Pine Lake, you can access several alpine features. One visitor noted, "can access 3 different beautiful lakes from this drainage and 2 beautiful peaks!" The trail system allows for day trips to explore beyond your basecamp.
Paddleboarding and kayaking: Silver Lake Backcountry provides water recreation options beyond just fishing. A camper shared, "Lots of hikes to do nearby, beautiful views, and place to paddle board, kayak, etc." Another visitor mentioned, "We spent our afternoons paddleboarding on Silver Lake Reservoir."
Trail running: The canyons offer extensive trail networks for runners. A reviewer of Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts observed, "Although the canyon offers many hiking trails, the main use of the trails seems to be for trail running."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Camping in these canyons often includes animal sightings. A camper at Millcreek Canyon reported, "Everytime we come here we also see moose and deer." Wildlife encounters add to the natural experience.
Weekday solitude: For campers seeking quiet, timing matters significantly. A Red Pine Lake visitor advised, "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."
Easy access to water sources: Many trails in the area follow streams, providing convenient water access. As one Lake Blanche Trail - Backcountry Camp visitor mentioned, "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."
Fall colors and stargazing: The mountains offer seasonal visual attractions. A visitor to Silver Lake Backcountry noted, "the fall colors during the day and the stars during the night were spectacular!"
What you should know
Road conditions and vehicle requirements: Many camping areas require appropriate vehicles. A Silver Lake camper warned, "you're definitely going to need 4WD and high clearance because the roads leading up to the campsite are filled with ruts and holes."
Fire restrictions: Several camping areas prohibit fires entirely. A Red Pine Lake visitor explained, "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."
Camping distance regulations: Most dispersed camping areas have specific rules about campsite locations. At Dutchman Mine Flats, "You cannot car-camp as there is wooden fence blocking off the parking area." Similarly, Silver Lake requires you to "stay at least 1/2 mile away from the lake to camp."
Seasonal access limitations: Canyon access varies throughout the year. A visitor to Millcreek Canyon warned, "Camping doesn't open until July 1st so take that into account." Always check current conditions before planning your trip.
Tips for camping with families
Consider park campgrounds: Anderson Park offers more amenities for family camping. A visitor noted, "This park allows for camping and accommodates small or large groups. Several fire pits, large covered lighted pavilion with three rows of picnic tables."
River play areas: Families with children enjoy water features. A Millcreek Canyon camper shared, "We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river. Just a fun time."
Early arrival strategy: Popular spots fill quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Kimball Campground advised, "Make sure to get here early on summer weekends because this place fills up."
Dusty conditions preparation: Some sites have specific terrain challenges. One camper at Kimball Campground noted, "The campsites are beautiful, and within walking distance to the trailhead to hike the 2.2 mile hike up to Silver Lake. Loved camping here, only complaint is the dirt is very chalky and dusty, and keeping your gear clean is not really an option here."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most of the best tent camping near Cottonwood Heights, Utah is backcountry or walk-in only, with limited options for RVs. One visitor to American Campground noted its simplicity as a "Great place to relax!" but most tent-focused areas prohibit larger vehicles.
Consider tent camping instead: For RV travelers wanting to experience the best camping spots near Cottonwood Heights, consider parking at designated areas and backpacking to tent sites. As one camper at Red Pine Lake described, "I was looking for a quick, one night out and back backpacking trip while visiting family in Utah this summer."
Staging areas: Some locations provide parking areas where RVs can stay while tent camping nearby. At Kimball Campground, a visitor noted, "These campground spots are hidden within trees up the dirt road just past Silver Lake flats on the dirt road."
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