Dispersed camping spots near Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest provide both developed and primitive options, with elevations ranging from 5,000 to over 8,000 feet depending on location. The Weber River corridor offers multiple access points for campers seeking riverside sites. Temperatures vary significantly by season and elevation, with summer highs typically in the 70s-80s°F at higher elevations and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: The North Fork area features accessible waterfall hikes for all skill levels. "Had a great stay at North Fork. Camped in the canyon near the trailheaad for the waterfall hike. We stayed at campsite 6 which was great, but they were all really nice. Excellent mountain bike trails also," notes Rich J. about North Fork County Park.
River recreation access: The South Fork campground provides direct river access for tubing, fishing and wading. "This [campground] much like the others in this canyon is situated along the banks of the South Fork of the Ogden River... Right by most of the campsites you can fly fish or set off on a tubing adventure down the Ogden River! It is required that you have a life jacket before setting off," explains Alan B. from South Fork (UT).
Mountain biking routes: Several campgrounds connect to dedicated mountain biking trails. One North Fork visitor mentioned, "We would bike and hike along the different trails. There's a short waterfall hike, but also a long hike that will take you up to Ben Lomond Peak & cut across to Willard Peak. Go when there's no smoke and you'll have breathtaking views (I'd say May & June are your best bet)."
Winter recreation options: When temperatures drop, the area transforms for winter activities. "We camped here in winter... Great place for ice fishing," notes a Willard Bay visitor. Other winter activities include snowshoeing on forest trails and access to nearby ski areas when snow conditions permit.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers praise the spaciousness at North Fork. "There are so many spots, and they are all very private. The Camp hosts are great! There's a hidden waterfall you can hike too, and a river runs through the park," shares Debbie P. about her experiences at North Fork County Park.
Early season availability: For those who want to avoid crowds, timing matters. "We've never had any problems finding a spot, being comfortable and enjoying our time up there. The camp hosts have ALWAYS been friendly, helpful and professional," reports Dave D. about North Fork County Park.
Beach access: Anderson Cove offers direct lake access. "There was a lot of space to be spread out from others. The beach is so large and it's easy to camp out. The sand is soft and fun for the kids to build sand castles. We also enjoyed the small waves while on the beach," writes Whitney K.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: The conservation areas provide opportunities for wildlife watching. At Middle Fork Conservation Area, one camper observed, "It is down a dirt road in a valley surrounded by cattle and deer and elk. Beautiful sunset and moonrise."
What you should know
Campsite availability windows: For South Fork Campground, planning ahead is essential. "I definitely recommend going beforehand to scope out which site you would like best and reserve it online because this place gets all booked up!" advises Ashley K. from South Fork (UT).
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds more than others. At Willard Bay's Cottonwood Campground, "I-15 noise was horrible, no sleep even with a fan going and earplugs. Bath houses are small and cryptic. But clean."
Insects and wildlife: Bug prevention is essential at several campgrounds. "As sun went down the mosquitos started to swarm and chased us inside. Haven't experienced that level of bugginess outside of several of the swamps we camped at in the southeast. Middle of the night a skunk visited our campsite and hung around for quite a while," shares one Willard Bay camper.
Weather variations: Higher elevation sites experience significant temperature swings. "If you hit it early May or late September, bring extra layers—temperatures can drop below freezing overnight even when days reach the 70s," notes a regular forest visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Beach-friendly sites: At Anderson Cove, families appreciate the sandy shoreline. "We loved that we could bring the jet skis right over to the beach at the campground and also that they have a dog beach. We had a fantastic view from our site," explains Barb D. from Anderson Cove.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment. At Willow Creek Campground, families note the availability of "amenities like toilets and a playground on site. There's also a walk from the campground to the lake and a nice beach area there."
Creek exploration for kids: Many campsites offer shallow creek access perfect for children. "My husband and I recently took our toddler and infant here and had a blast. They found joy in simply throwing pebbles in the creek and making mud," shares Morgan L. about her North Fork experience.
Family reunion spots: Larger groups should consider North Fork's connected sites. "Our family has our anual family reunion in Mustang Flats every summer, CW8 & CW9 are great for 5 families because they're connected by a little road," recommends Fale L.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Riverside RV Resort offers modern amenities for RVers. "Sites are asphalt and VERY long & level—with a strip of grass and some rock gravel. The campground was clean and well maintained. There's a walking trail that runs along the Weber river and a dog run on the eastern part of the property," reports Rara B.
Sewer connections: At Anderson Cove, "There are camp-sights on blacktop and on dirt. There is a boat ramp, store, dump station…" according to Lisa W. This makes it convenient for RVers needing to manage tanks during longer stays.
Winter RV considerations: RV campers should note that water systems are typically winterized from October through April at most campgrounds. Full hookup sites may have limited water availability during shoulder seasons.
Site selection for larger rigs: For those with larger RVs, accessibility varies significantly. "Enough trees to keep your site private, able to fit a 30' trailer in over 75% of their spots," mentions Jared about North Fork County Park, making it suitable for mid-sized trailers despite its forest setting.
