Independence Lakes Campground

Star4.75
29 reviews
,,,USA
Romantic GetawayScenic ViewsPeace & QuietSummer Destination

Quick Facts

7,789 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

5 campsites

Season

July through October

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Independence Lakes Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
,,,USA
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.75

Top-Rated

Based on 29 reviews

22 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanhikinglake

"Reviews highlight the campground's serene and picturesque location but emphasize its remote and primitive nature. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and proximity to scenic trails and lakes."

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Campground Map

,,,USA

Independence Lakes Campground

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Driving directions,,,USA
,,,USA
Nearby places
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Nearby supplies
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Best Time to Camp at Independence Lakes Campground

Summer unveils this mountain paradise from July through October, when snow retreats to reveal wildflower meadows and crystal-clear waters. Crisp mountain air greets you each morning, while afternoon temperatures remain refreshingly cool—perfect for ambitious day hikes or lazy afternoons by the lakeside. Evening brings a symphony of alpine breezes and the need for that extra layer you wisely packed.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5
Top 17% in UT

Open July–October; summer reveals wildflowers, clear lakes and prime hiking access.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Open into October; crisp air and views make fall attractive though the season is short.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Snow retreats by July; spring likely snowbound and campground not open.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed outside July–October; winter visits not supported.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: ,,,USA. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: July through October
  • Current Alerts: ,,,USA

About Independence Lakes Campground

Escape to Independence Lake Campground, a hidden gem nestled in pristine alpine wilderness where five intimate campsites await your arrival. This rustic, no-fee haven provides the essentials for an authentic backcountry experience—sturdy tables for evening meals under the stars, grills for campfire cooking, basic restroom facilities, and even accommodations for your trusty pack animals. True to its wild spirit, you'll need to bring your own water and pack out what you pack in, as this untouched sanctuary operates without modern conveniences.
Independence Lakes Campground is a primitive, walk-in only facility with limited amenities, catering to tent campers and those seeking solitude.
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Amenities available

Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers outdoor adventurers access to fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The nearby trail to Independence Lakes is a key highlight, with some challenges due to rocky terrain on the first mile. However, the grade becomes manageable, leading to a picturesque alpine cirque basin.
HikingHiking opportunities include the Independence Lakes Trail (#35), which is 3.1 miles to the lake. The trail is rocky in the first mile but features switchbacks and manageable grades afterward.
FishingFishing for trout is available at nearby lakes, with options for wade, shore, non-motorized boat, float tube, fly, spin, or bait fishing.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is likely in the alpine environment with a range of local fauna, though specifics are not provided.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe trail's first section is rocky, posing potential trip hazards.
Active Alerts,,,USA
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Independence Lakes Campground

Reviews

4.8
29 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Independence Lakes Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's serene and picturesque location but emphasize its remote and primitive nature. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and proximity to scenic trails and lakes.
Review Summaries
Based on 29 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciate the site's natural beauty, proximity to a stream, and the challenging yet rewarding hiking trails. One user stated, "We camped up at the 2nd lake and it was BEAUTIFUL!" Another...
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Based on 29 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include the lack of trash facilities and the need to carry supplies in due to the walk-in nature of the sites. A user commented, "You have to park and carry your stuff in which is kind...
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Based on 29 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend being prepared to hike and carry in supplies, as well as packing out all trash. Bringing adequate water and sturdy hiking shoes is advised.
Based on 29 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest the best time to visit is between July and October when the campground is open. Hikers mention that the trail conditions are rocky but manageable during this window.
Based on 29 reviews

Camper Quotes

"We had an amazing time at this little campground. You have to park and carry your stuff in which is kind of a pain, but it is nice and quiet and you are right next to a stream." "Awesome hike in, if...
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Based on 29 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific sites are not reviewed in detail, but the campground's proximity to the lakes is highly praised.
Based on 29 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campground is described as handicapped accessible but no reviews detail the experiences of disabled visitors.
Based on 29 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews or policies related to pets are mentioned.
Based on 29 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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