Fishing, paddleboarding, and ATV riding draw campers to Silver Lake Backcountry in Alta, Utah, where the main recreation involves the lake and the surrounding high country terrain. The campground sits within Uinta National Forest and is free to use, though reaching it requires more effort than most established sites. As of early July, the road is gated, making a hike-in mandatory. Come prepared to carry gear.
Access is the defining factor here. Reaching camp requires crossing a creek with 12 to 18 inches of water, sometimes up to four crossings depending on where you set up. The dirt and gravel road leading to Silver Lake Reservoir runs roughly 10 miles from Tibble Fork Reservoir. Sites are wide and spacious, with established fire pits at most. Shade is limited, so sun protection matters. Campers consistently mention open sightlines toward the back of Mount Timpanogos, with Box Elder Peak visible to the west and the Alpine Ridge to the north.
The half-mile camping buffer from the lake is a firm rule. Reviewers have noted people camping along the lake shore, which is not permitted. Brick-enclosed vault toilets are available at the trailhead. Fishing and light watercraft are allowed on Silver Lake Reservoir. Kimball Campground and Red Pine Lake are nearby alternatives for those exploring places to camp near Uinta National Forest. Michelle B. describes the sites as "wide spacious camp sites," a detail that holds up across multiple reviews. This campground works best for self-sufficient campers comfortable with creek crossings and variable road conditions.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsSilver Lake Backcountry is located in Utah near Alta
Public CampgroundCoordinates
40.52652205 N
111.65544797 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/21/26- VerizonNo Coverage
AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/21/26
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Dispersed
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Electric Hookups
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Silver Lake Backcountry needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 13 min from Provo, UT
- 1 hr 22 min from Salt Lake City, UT
- 1 hr 49 min from Ogden, UT
- 2 hrs 33 min from Logan, UT
