Camping options near Vernon, Utah include primitive sites along Vernon Reservoir's western shore and more remote opportunities at Seven Mile Pass and Fivemile Pass. Located approximately 35 miles southwest of Tooele at 5,500 feet elevation, this high desert terrain experiences significant seasonal temperature fluctuations. Nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing even during summer months, requiring campers to pack extra layers regardless of season.
What to do
Fishing at the reservoir: Vernon Reservoir Campground offers good fishing opportunities for families. "The lake is good fishing. My son caught his first fish at this lake. Fun times!" notes Derek E. The reservoir is stocked with tiger trout according to campers who visited in fall 2022.
Off-roading adventures: Fivemile Pass OHV provides extensive trail systems for off-road enthusiasts. "Great for OHV. That's about it. Not the best place to camp. You can stay for 14 days for free. Outhouses are spread throughout," explains Chris J. The area attracts many ATV users, especially during weekends.
Hiking nearby trails: Access multiple hiking trails from Cherry Creek Campsites for day excursions. "Remote spot right next to a creek. Listening to the creek flow is great," reports Dylan B. Though primarily known for motorized recreation, the surrounding terrain offers opportunities for exploring on foot.
What campers like
Mountain views: The panoramic vistas from camping areas around Vernon feature both desert landscapes and mountain backdrops. "With 5th wheel, took a couple sites before we were happy. Landed with large windows facing lake, lovely," shares Kevin H. about his experience at Miner's Canyon Dispersed.
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. "This place is pretty amazing with beautiful views of the sunrise, sunset and stars," reports Alisa P. about Fivemile Pass OHV. Clear desert air enhances visibility of celestial objects throughout most of the year.
Wildlife encounters: Morning and evening wildlife viewing adds to the camping experience. "You'll love sitting around your campfire watching the deer scamper in the mountains," notes Donna L. about her stay at Settlement Canyon/Legion Park Campground. Various small mammals and birds frequent camping areas throughout the region.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Wind conditions affect camping comfort throughout the region. "It wasn't busy. The sites are mostly exposed and many don't have even ground to park and level a trailer," Tara explains about Vernon Reservoir Campground. Temperature swings between day and night can exceed 30 degrees.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas provide minimal or no services. "This is the desert and there is no water so come prepared. Please leave no trace and clean up after yourself," advises Jeremy H. about Fivemile Pass OHV. Campers should plan to pack out all trash and bring sufficient supplies.
Cell service variability: Connectivity changes dramatically depending on precise location. "The only two bad things that we noticed it was there was a lot of trash left over at the campground from the previous occupants. And there is no cell service at all unless you're up near the gate," Warren W. reports about Settlement Canyon/Legion Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for temperature changes: Pack extra layers for children as desert nights get cold even in summer. "We went in March and it was a little cold, but we setup the trailer and the heater worked great," shares Shad G. about Vernon Reservoir Campground. Morning temperature differentials can surprise unprepared campers.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer better facilities for families with young children. "We only stayed overnight but it was a blast! The campsites had good space between each other. Each one had a fire pit and picnic table. We woke up to see cows in the morning which the kids loved," explains Carlee G. about her experience at Settlement Canyon.
Insect protection: Flies and other insects can become problematic in certain areas. "Problem…SO MANY FLIES. They don't bite or sting but you could not be outside for very long before they were in everyone's drinks and personal space!" warns Alisa P. about Seven Mile Pass. Bringing insect repellent and screened shelters helps manage this issue.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for leveling: Finding flat spots requires advance planning or early arrival. "I didn't get a place but the location seemed nice with a little creek. A bit colder here due to the mountains. There is benches and a bonfire place at each spot," reports Marius about Ophir Canyon Campground.
Water conservation strategies: With no hookups at most sites, RVers must manage water carefully. "No services and no water, and not particularly scenic. It's fun to ride ATVs and go shooting. There is no shade so be prepared," notes Connor O. about Seven Mile Pass. Dog friendly campgrounds near Vernon require bringing extra water supplies for pets.
Generator considerations: Plan generator usage around neighboring campers in dispersed areas. "Larger RVs occasionally run generators which can be noisy," Joshua E. explains about Miner's Canyon Dispersed camping area. Many campers in the Vernon area prefer these remote locations specifically for the quiet they provide.
