Best Campgrounds near Murray, UT
Murray, Utah and its surrounding areas provide camping options ranging from developed RV parks to dispersed backcountry sites. The Salt Lake City KOA offers 180 sites with full hookups, showers, and year-round availability, while Millcreek Canyon features backcountry camping and yurt rentals for those seeking a more primitive experience. The region includes several campgrounds within 30 miles of Murray, including established facilities in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons such as Spruces Campground and Tanners Flat, which accommodate tent camping, RVs, and in some cases glamping options.
Seasonal availability varies significantly across the area, with many canyon campgrounds only open from late May through mid-October. "We frequently come up here just to sleep outside some nights and head back home in the early morning to get food and shower," noted one visitor about Neffs Canyon dispersed camping. Higher elevation sites in the Wasatch Mountains experience cooler temperatures and potential snow into late spring. Most developed campgrounds in the area require reservations, which become essential during summer weekends. Travelers should check current fire restrictions, especially during the dry summer months when bans are common. Cell service can be limited in canyon areas, though urban-adjacent sites maintain reliable coverage.
Campers report varying experiences with noise levels depending on location. Urban campgrounds like the Salt Lake City KOA provide convenience but experience city noise including traffic and trains. According to one visitor, "This campground is surrounded by inner city-like activity," while another mentioned it's "close to downtown" and offers "public transit to city-center and amenities a couple blocks away." Canyon campgrounds provide greater solitude and natural surroundings. Most established campgrounds feature drinking water and toilets, though amenities vary significantly. The proximity to both urban conveniences and mountain recreation makes the Murray area attractive for campers seeking both accessibility and scenic beauty. Winter camping options remain limited primarily to lower elevation RV parks that maintain year-round operations.