Backcountry camping near West Bountiful, Utah centers around the rugged Wasatch Mountains with elevations ranging from 4,300 to over 11,000 feet. Most tent campsites require hiking distances between 0.5 to 4 miles from trailheads, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 50°F at night to 85°F during daytime hours. Campsite selection requires finding level ground at least 200 feet from water sources and trails.
What to do
Fishing access: Silver Lake offers fishing opportunities in an alpine setting with mountain views. One camper noted, "Fishing is right up the road too" at Silver Lake Backcountry, while another mentioned seeing the lake "loaded with large trout" at higher elevation sites.
Trail running: The canyons near West Bountiful provide extensive trail networks ideal for runners. A visitor to Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts observed, "Millcreek Canyon is home to some wonderful trails that can be accessed by foot or bike. Although the canyon offers many hiking trails, the main use of the trails seems to be for trail running."
Winter activities: Tent campsites near West Bountiful transform during winter months. At Port Ramp Marina, a camper shared, "The lake will freeze over enough to walk on or fish on. There were plenty of people ice fishing when we went," adding that "it gets loads of snow for snow sports, and it is right next to Powder Mountain and Snow Basin!"
What campers like
Alpine landscapes: Many backcountry sites provide elevated views of surrounding peaks and valleys. At Kimball Campground, trails lead to panoramic vistas: "I did trail 173 it was 2.5miles and it took you up so you have an amazing elevated view of the mountains and lake and about 2 miles in it leads you to the opposite side of the lake that you drive up next to."
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local fauna. One camper at Silver Lake Backcountry mentioned, "The scenery is beautiful and we even saw a herd of deer run by our camp," while others reported moose sightings in early mornings and evenings during summer months.
Water recreation: Despite watershed restrictions at some sites, several locations permit non-motorized watercraft. A visitor noted, "We spent our afternoons paddleboarding on Silver Lake Reservoir," while another at Split Rock Bay Backcountry Campsites commented on the "Great hiking trails with great views and lots if animals to see" surrounding the water access.
What you should know
Access requirements: Many roads to backcountry tent sites require appropriate vehicles. At Kimball Campground, one camper advised, "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!!" while another noted, "The dirt road gets rough and rocky, but is driveable."
Seasonal timing: Camping availability varies significantly by season. A visitor to Millcreek Canyon reported, "Camping doesnt open until July 1st so take that into account," while another warned about road closures: "Road is closed 3.5 miles into the park before where camping spots were indicated."
Permit systems: Most watershed areas require camping permits. At Red Pine Lake, campers must follow specific regulations: "Be prepared for significant foul weather and choose your campsite appropriately" and "No fires or pets are allowed given that Little Cottonwood Canyon is considered Watershed."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner backpacking routes: Several locations offer introductory backpacking experiences suitable for children. At Cook Campsite, a parent shared, "This was a great place to give my 5 year old a taste of backpacking," noting its proximity to town made it accessible for families new to overnight hiking.
Water play opportunities: Creek access provides cooling options during summer months. One visitor to Millcreek Canyon mentioned, "We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river. Just a fun time," though swimmers should verify if water sources serve as drinking water reservoirs where swimming is prohibited.
Weekend capacity concerns: Popular family-friendly sites fill quickly during peak season. A camper at Kimball Campground advised, "Make sure to get here early on summer weekends because this place fills up," suggesting Thursday arrival for weekend camping during July and August.
Tips from RVers
Non-RV areas: Most backcountry sites near West Bountiful strictly prohibit RV access. A recent visitor to Millcreek Canyon emphasized, "Warning - road is closed 3.5 miles into the park before where camping spots were indicated. Also to highlight this is WALK IN camping only. No car camping or RVs as it requires you to be 1/2 mile off the road."
Alternative drive-up options: RV campers should focus on established campgrounds rather than backcountry sites. The designated tent campsites near West Bountiful generally require hiking in with backpacking gear, limiting RV options to developed campgrounds in nearby Wasatch-Cache National Forest.
Trail access parking: Day-use RV parking exists at some trailheads. Silver Lake Backcountry has "a large bathroom" at the trailhead with parking that "can fill and you'll have to park on the road or a pullout," making early arrival essential for RV owners planning day hikes.
