Tent campsites near Vineyard, Utah range from 40-minute drives to several-hour hikes through varied terrain. The region sits at the convergence of the Wasatch Mountains and Utah Lake valley, creating dramatic elevation changes from 4,500 feet in Vineyard to over 10,000 feet at alpine camping destinations. Most campgrounds close for winter, with prime camping season running May through September when temperatures at higher elevations remain cool even during summer heat.
What to do
Paddleboarding and fishing: Anderson Park provides direct access to water recreation with convenient amenities. "Loved it, great for Paddleboarding and fishing," notes camper Becky J. about this Anderson Park campsite option close to Vineyard.
Explore alpine lakes: Multiple backcountry routes lead to scenic alpine lakes. The Silver Lake Backcountry area offers both day trips and overnight options. "Only 40-50 minutes away from Provo, UT area so easy to get away for a quick day or two of camping. Lots of hikes to do nearby, beautiful views, and place to paddle board, kayak, etc.," shares Bentz E.
Follow trail networks: Hobble Right Fork features multiple interconnected trails for hikers and mountain bikers. "I love this canyon. There are so many places to disperse camp as a group or an individual. One thing to know is that you will likely encounter cattle. They roam all over the hills," advises Whitney W. about the Hobble Right Fork Dispersed camping area.
What campers like
River proximity: Several camping areas feature streams or rivers flowing directly through or adjacent to campsites. At Dry Canyon, camper Ash S. notes: "Beautiful scenery. Lots of shade and dappled sunlight. River steps away. River not too cold. Do have to carry everything from the parking lot, across the bridge, to your campsite."
Star viewing: Low light pollution at higher elevation campsites provides exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. At Hobble Right Fork, camper Ethan H. observed "stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Hardly any light pollution, so the stars were amazing."
Hammock-friendly terrain: Tree coverage varies significantly between camping areas. At Dutchman Mine Flats, Chris J. recommends: "Great for hammocks, a little rough on tents. There are several 'camp' spots dispersed in this area accessible only during spring-fall when the canyon is open."
What you should know
Rough access roads: Many tent sites near Vineyard require navigating unpaved roads. Silver Lake Backcountry camper Ethan H. cautions: "You're definitely going to need 4WD and high clearance because the roads leading up to the campsite are filled with ruts and holes. The views make the drive there worth it, though."
Parking restrictions: Some areas have designated parking requirements separate from camping areas. Cortlan S. explains about Silver Lake: "You can't drive to the coordinates, you have to park at the uppermost parking lot for Silver Flat and hike up to a camping spot."
Seasonal water crossings: Weather conditions affect accessibility to many camping areas. For Kimball Campground, Bethany R. advises: "The roads are really rough don't think you'll be able to do it without 4x4 or awd my Honda CR-V did great!"
Elevation considerations: Higher elevation campsites experience significant temperature changes. Jakob H. notes about Hobble Right Fork: "It is at a fairly high elevation so nights will be cold."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner backpacking: Red Pine Lake offers moderate backpacking for families with older children. Chloe B. reports: "I backpacked to Red Pine Lake (first backpacking in 10 years!) and had a great time. The trail up is well kept and the lake itself is stunning. Lots of streams everywhere too which I loved."
Pavilion access: Camp Eagle Mountain provides covered areas for group activities during hot summer days. Angela S. describes it as "a developing camp, so while it's free-range and fairly primitive camping, the current construction is eventually expected to provide potable water, campsites, flushing toilets, and showers."
Weekday camping: Most tent camping areas near Vineyard become crowded on summer weekends. At Red Pine Lake, Derek E. suggests: "Parking at the trailhead can be a bit crowded during peak season (between June and September) so arrive early in the day for a good spot."
Tips from RVers
Water access: Most campgrounds near Vineyard lack RV hookups but some have water fill stations. At Wasatch National Forest Sulphur Campground, Justin A. explains: "Great tasting water, we used a 5 gallon bucket and a water transfer pump from Harbor Freight to fill up our fresh tank."
Site dimensions: RV sites in the area typically accommodate smaller rigs with limited turnaround space. Justin A. continues about Sulphur Campground: "The camp spots are narrow, the road in/out is narrow. Our 25ft trailer seemed to be a max length, but there were some 32 ft goosenecks and motor homes there."
Waste disposal: Bear-proof trash receptacles are available at some locations. "There were bear proof dumpsters for your bags of trash," notes Justin about the amenities at Sulphur Campground, making it more suitable for RVers who need regular waste disposal options.
