Dispersed camping options near Bingham Canyon, Utah range from primitive sites at higher elevations to urban campgrounds with full amenities. The area sits between 4,300-7,000 feet elevation, creating significant temperature variations between valley and mountain locations. Several campgrounds remain open year-round while canyon locations typically close from late October through early May due to snow.
What to do
Hiking access from camp: At Granite Flat Campground, campers can directly access trails near Tibble Fork. One visitor noted, "We were able to paddle board which was a blast! I loves being so close and having access to so many beautiful hikes and Rick climbing. We were right next to a beautiful river and it was pretty quiet."
Fishing opportunities: Several reservoirs and lakes within 15-30 minutes of campgrounds offer fishing. At Settlement Canyon/Legion Park Campground, one camper mentioned, "We woke up to see cows in the morning which the kids loved. Had some great areas for hiking and is really close to the reservoir for some awesome fishing."
Beach recreation: The Great Salt Lake shoreline provides unique swimming and photography opportunities. According to a visitor at Great Salt Lake State Park Campground, "We stayed here for a night in August and it was just a magical evening - from watching the buffalo herds in the distance, to taking a dip in the Great Salt Lake, to the vibrant sunset and then a wild lightning storm."
What campers like
Convenience to urban areas: Many campgrounds provide easy access to city amenities while feeling remote. A camper at Willow Park Campground shared, "This is a great place to camp within the city of Lehi. It is close to the water and in the hot summer it is a fun spot for a night get away. Big camp sites for trailers or tents and nice bathrooms."
Mountain wildlife viewing: Canyon campgrounds offer opportunities to see deer, moose, and other wildlife. A visitor to Spruces - Big Cottonwood reported, "I have almost always seen moose and deer in the camp ground and the kids love to catch fish in the stream. There are some great hikes not far from camp, Doughnut falls is very close."
Lakefront camping: Several campgrounds provide direct beach or lakefront access. A camper at Great Salt Lake State Park Campground shared, "We tent camped on the beach and loved it all from the oolitic sand to the absolutely insane sunrise view from the window of the tent! On the north side you see the lake and the south side you see the Rio Tinto smelter."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most canyon campgrounds close completely from October through May. For Tanners Flat, one camper advised, "September/early October gives cooler temperatures and less crowds, and we got to see some lovely fall colors."
Reservation requirements: Many popular sites book 3-6 months in advance, especially for summer weekends. A visitor to Granite Flat noted, "Be aware that this campsite reservations for the weekend fill up quick. I checked in late may and every weekend until September was already booked."
Urban noise considerations: City-adjacent campgrounds often experience traffic, train, or aircraft noise. At Salt Lake City KOA, a camper warned, "Be warned, if is NOT quiet - there are multiple trains/sirens/large semis blowing by all night."
Wind conditions: Certain locations experience severe winds. At Flight Park State Recreation Area, one camper cautioned, "Very windy---20-30mph winds nearly everyday. That's why it's popular for hang gliding. Unless you're coming here to fly then it's a terrible spot!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas and activities for children. A visitor to Willow Park Campground mentioned, "We take our scout troop to this campsite at least once a year. It is close to the city but feels like it is not. really nice bathrooms, tables, and pavilions."
Wildlife viewing spots: Specific campgrounds offer reliable wildlife sightings. One Settlement Canyon camper shared, "We had one night connected to power and one without and enjoyed both nights. It's a lovely forested area and the fall colors are just turning. Very friendly gate staff."
Multi-generational activities: Some campgrounds provide amenities for all age groups. At Pony Express RV Resort, a visitor noted, "Things we loved: Very clean and well kept, Flat, level parking spots - many pull-throughs, Very quiet."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup locations: Several campgrounds offer water, electric, and sewer connections. A visitor to Mountain Shadows RV Park shared, "We stopped on our way through the SLC area heading home. There are few options available being in a more populated area. The RV park was exactly as expected. Facilities were clean."
Spacing considerations: Urban campgrounds often have closer sites than canyon locations. One Pony Express RV Resort camper mentioned, "This is a pretty decent park. There are a lot of amenities, clean facilities, and concrete pads. The sites are pretty close together so if you like your space, this probably isn't the best place."
Winter camping options: Select valley campgrounds remain open year-round with full services. A Salt Lake City KOA visitor noted, "The campground was nice. Warm showers and bathhouse that was fairly clean. It was still winter so not many other amenities."
