Aurora, Utah sits at approximately 5,200 feet elevation in central Utah, nestled between several mountain ranges with access to multiple natural hot springs within driving distance. The area experiences distinct seasons with hot, dry summers and cold winters, making spring and fall optimal for camping. Temperatures can fluctuate significantly between day and night, especially during spring and fall camping seasons.
What to do
Explore petroglyphs and trails: At Fremont Indian State Park, visitors can discover nearly 700 Native American rock art panels. "There are lots of cool trails leading up to the castle rock perfect for a little hiking as well as water streams, all over the site," notes one camper. The park offers several improved and unimproved trails leading to numerous rock art sites.
Enjoy water recreation: Palisade State Park Campground provides lake access for non-motorized watercraft. "This is a great place to go kayaking (no power boats allowed). There are great atv trails nearby. There is a great golf course right next to the lake/campground," explains a regular visitor. The park also features a sandy beach area and fishing opportunities.
Soak in mineral hot springs: The natural mineral hot springs provide relaxation opportunities year-round. According to a visitor at Mystic Hot Springs, "Stayed in an old bus turned into cute little camp spot. Stayed here in the dead of winter and was very comfy and cozy. Bus had heated blankets and was thoughtfully set up." Soaking sessions typically require advance booking.
What campers like
Quiet camping locations: Yuba State Park offers secluded sites with lakeside views. "We didn't have many neighbors either time we stayed here," reports one repeat visitor. "This campground is beautifully settled in the hills. The lake is not accessible at this time due to low water level, but the view in all directions is beautiful," notes another camper.
Well-maintained facilities: Campgrounds in the area typically feature clean bathrooms and showers. At Fillmore KOA, "Showers, bathrooms, laundry and common areas were spotless," according to one camper. Another notes, "The campground and facilities are very clean and well maintained. The camp hosts and staff are very friendly."
Unique glamping options: Beyond the vintage buses at Mystic Hot Springs, the region offers diverse glamping accommodations. "Got to stay in a rad tipi site for only $30! They had firewood available by the bundle for $5/armload," shares a visitor to Castle Rock Campground at Fremont Indian State Park. Several campgrounds offer cabins, yurts, and other alternative accommodations for those seeking glamping in Aurora, Utah and the surrounding area.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate seasonally. Castle Rock Campground at Fremont Indian State Park is open April through October, while Palisade State Park remains open year-round. "We stayed in site CA23, a dispersed site. There were plenty of water taps around the campground to fill up jugs if need be, along with a bucket and shovel at each spigot to use for your fire pit," explains a camper at Castle Rock.
Reservation requirements: Popular glamping sites near Aurora, Utah require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "We were able to book a res after closing hours which is always nice to be spontaneous," notes a camper at Fillmore KOA. However, at more popular locations, reservations are essential.
Proximity to attractions: Many campgrounds are situated near scenic attractions but may require short drives. Sunglow Campground provides convenient access to Capitol Reef National Park: "It is about a 15-20 minute drive from Capitol Reef National Park... Great scenery. Kids wanted to explore all over. The red rock cliffs are pretty," shares a visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly features: Campgrounds with playgrounds and open spaces provide recreation options. "Family comes here every year around Mother's Day. This year we went May 17th and it was still cold. The water was very high. We love palisades or we wouldn't be going every year," notes a regular visitor to Palisade State Park.
Consider shore access: When camping with children, convenient water access makes activities easier. At Palisade State Park, one visitor shares, "We really love the lake and all the little trails we could mountain bike on! Good place for families or big groups to come to!"
Check for educational opportunities: The Fremont Indian State Park visitor center offers learning experiences for children. "The Fremont Indian State Park has a visitor center and 697 Native American rock art panels," notes one camper, though another mentioned that "Visitor center has an education center that looked promising but is currently closed due to COVID."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: For RVs, finding level sites with appropriate hookups is essential. At Yuba State Park, one RVer shares, "We have a 42 ft motorhome and a separate pickup with a 6x12 trailer and we fit both in a pull through site and it looked like there was another 40 feet available. We were in campsite #2 but it looks like there are other sites that are quite long."
Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups are available at many campgrounds, though not all offer full services. At Fillmore KOA, a camper notes, "WiFi was very weak but the hookups are in good condition. We really appreciated the grounds with trees and grass."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may present challenges. Regarding Joe's Valley Reservoir, one camper advises, "The drive up along the river is so beautiful. It is a little narrow, but there was some equipment out so it appeared they were working on the road and fixing it up. Take it slow with the big rigs."
