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Dispersed Camping

Salamander Flat

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Salamander Flat, near Provo, Utah, is a laid-back spot perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. This area offers a mix of tent and RV camping, with several sites featuring private fire pits and nearby trails for exploration.

Visitors rave about the stunning mountain views, with one camper noting, “The mountains up here are truly breathtaking.” The campground is surrounded by trees, providing a nice backdrop for a peaceful getaway. While it’s a free location, be prepared for cooler temperatures at night, so pack a jacket even in summer.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Salamander Flat is a great launch point for hiking and biking adventures. The trails weave right through the area, making it easy to hit the ground running in the morning. Just keep in mind that the campground can get busy, so arriving early is a smart move to snag a good spot.

While the proximity to the main road means you might hear some traffic, the overall vibe is friendly and welcoming. Whether you're looking to relax by the fire or tackle a mountain trail, Salamander Flat has got you covered.

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Location

Salamander Flat is located in Utah

Detail location of campground

Directions

Beginning at the Information Station located on the American Fork side of SR-92, travel 8.1 miles to Timpooneke Road. Turn right, and continue approximately ¼ mile to the Timpooneke parking lot. Please park in designated spaces. GPS Coordinates: Beginning of trail: N 40° 25’50.1 W 111° 38' 20.27" Junction with SR-92: N 40° 26’6.26 W 111° 37' 49.31" Junction with Willow Hollow #159: N 40° 26’28.66 W 111° 37' 38.32" End of Trail (junction with Pine Hollow Trail #047): N 40° 26’44.11 W 111° 37' 37.78"

Coordinates

40.43929137 N
111.626973 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
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Connectivity

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Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Salamander Flat needs a permit.

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General Info


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Reviews

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8 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 11, 2024

It’s a campsite

After a long day of travel we just wanted to get to any site and camp. This is a national forest so there is technically a park permit required. However, we have an annual park pass and they accept that as well. It is an honor system kind of park permit. They ask you to scan the QR code or pay at the self pay station. $10 for a 3day pass, $20 for a 7 day pass.

The drive up to this site is winding and the cars seem to be used to driving it because they come around the corners pretty fast. Drive carefully and stay on your side of the road. It site is just after mile marker 17.

The site is huge! Lots of space for people, cars, RVs and trailers. The road is paved until you turn in and then it’s a regular dirt road.

The major con in this park in general is the bathrooms are yucky especially at this site.

This seems to be a local hangout for the youngsters as well. They were not a bother to us however, they were letting loose, having a good time at their site. They left around 11 or so.

No service with AT&T

Site#2
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Salamander Flat by Devin B., September 11, 2024
  • Review photo of Salamander Flat by Devin B., September 11, 2024
  • Review photo of Salamander Flat by Devin B., September 11, 2024
Reviewed Jul. 9, 2024

Utah has the worst system

All the sites said no reservation, first come first served, but they were all reserved with no campers. Camp host, as usual, nowhere in sight. I've camped in 43 states for decades and Utah is easily the worst state to camp at due to this system of theirs.

Also the drive up there is about 6 miles of winding hell with idiot children driving so fast I'm surprised there's not a death every day.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Nov. 22, 2023

Breathtaking view!

I actually stayed a bit earlier on (at a trailhead parking lot; didn’t see any signs that said I couldn’t) down the road because this section of the road was closed and I just have to say what a fantastic view! The mountains up here are truly breathtaking and I would highly recommend staying anywhere in this area if you can. The weather was quite cold and crisp but worth every second of it. The night was quiet as I spent most of it in my car but the sunrise was like no other. Highly recommend

Month of VisitNovember
  • Review photo of Salamander Flat by Caitlyn R., November 22, 2023
  • Review photo of Salamander Flat by Caitlyn R., November 22, 2023
  • Review photo of Salamander Flat by Caitlyn R., November 22, 2023
Reviewed Aug. 3, 2023

Great camping spot!

My boyfriend and I car camped here for the first time and it was great! There are multiple spots to set up camp with private fire pits and trails nearby.

SiteSalamander Flat
Month of VisitJuly
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Reviewed Nov. 26, 2021

Up busy AF canyon

Free campground near the top of American Fork canyon (which unfortunately is getting over-crowded). Minimal privacy, but if you need a place to crash for the night to start an early morning hike or ride, this place will do the job. The trails do go right through the campsite.

Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Aug. 11, 2021

Nice campground!

Lots of trees and fire pits. Nice hiking trails around. It gets cooler at this elevation so bring a jacket even in the summer.

Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Jul. 18, 2021

Nice area but loud traffic

Nice area and large camping sites. Toilet available. There's a river to play in at a pull off just a few minutes down the road. Tons of trails. A couple of deer wandered right through our campsite.

Downside- the campsites are really close to the main Alpine Loop road and there are cars constantly driving past. There were also several cars that drove by from midnight-3am that we were so loud (inviduals screaming, hooting, while blasting music at full volume with windows down) they woke us up.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Salamander Flat by Ash S., July 18, 2021
  • Review photo of Salamander Flat by Ash S., July 18, 2021
  • Review photo of Salamander Flat by Ash S., July 18, 2021
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Jun. 26, 2021

stayed for the weekend

stayed for the weekend and it was great! had the spot right next to the bathrooms but not to stinky or loud. gotta make sure you get there kinda early or most spots will be taken

Month of VisitAugust

Frequently Asked Questions

What trails and activities are available near Salamander Flat Campground?

Salamander Flat offers numerous hiking trails that run directly through and around the campground area. Visitors can enjoy exploring the surrounding forest on these trails, which are suitable for both hiking and mountain biking. A river is located just a few minutes down the road, providing opportunities for water play and relaxation. Wildlife viewing is also possible, with deer sometimes wandering through the campsite. The area's natural beauty makes it perfect for photography and nature appreciation year-round.

Where is Salamander Flat Campground located in Utah?

Salamander Flat Campground is located near the top of American Fork Canyon in Utah. It sits at a higher elevation along the Alpine Loop road, offering breathtaking mountain views. The campground is approximately 6 miles up from the canyon entrance, making it a convenient yet scenic retreat from nearby urban areas. The higher elevation provides cooler temperatures, even during summer months.

Do I need reservations for Salamander Flat Campground?

Salamander Flat Campground operates primarily on a first-come, first-served basis. No advance reservations are typically required. However, the campground can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended to secure a spot. Some visitors have reported occasional confusion with the reservation system, so it's advisable to check with the Forest Service for the most current information before your trip.

Is dispersed camping allowed at Salamander Flat?

Salamander Flat is a designated campground with specific sites rather than a dispersed camping area. However, there are trailhead parking lots nearby where some visitors have camped. For those seeking dispersed camping options, it's best to check with the U.S. Forest Service regarding officially designated dispersed camping areas in American Fork Canyon. Always verify current regulations before setting up camp outside of established campgrounds.

Are there any fees for camping at Salamander Flat?

Yes, there are fees for camping at Salamander Flat. As it's located in national forest land, a park permit is required. Annual park passes are accepted as well. The fee system operates on an honor basis with campers expected to scan a QR code or pay at designated locations. For specific fee amounts and payment methods, contact the U.S. Forest Service or check official information boards at the campground entrance.