Dispersed camping options near Bluffdale, Utah range from high-elevation mountain sites to valley locations along the Jordan River. Located at approximately 4,500 feet elevation, Bluffdale sits at the geographic transition zone between the Salt Lake Valley and the Wasatch Mountains. During summer months, valley temperatures frequently reach 95°F while canyon locations remain 10-15 degrees cooler.
What to do
Hike to alpine lakes: Granite Flat Campground provides access to multiple fishing lakes and hiking trails. "The area and scenery were gorgeous! The hosts were lovely and helpful. The water was cool and there were tons of people there with paddle boards, canoos, tents, and dogs," notes Ash S., who visited Granite Flat.
Watch paragliders launch: Flight Park State Recreation Area offers unique aerial entertainment. "When we woke up there were paragliders ready to glide. Which was cool," reports Santiago V. The site sits on a high ridge with views of the valley, though campers should note: "Very windy—20-30mph winds nearly everyday. That's why it's popular for hang gliding."
Explore river trails: Campsites at Willow Park Campground connect to riverside paths. "It's next to a nice river to fish at and the bathrooms are well maintained," writes Matt R. about this Willow Park location. Another camper added: "Has a playground, sand volleyball, boat launch as your near the Jordan River."
What campers like
Proximity to water features: Multiple campgrounds offer streamside or lakeside sites. At Little Mill, Melody F. reports: "We loved it. You could hear the river and we had a great time." The campground's location provides easy access to additional recreation: "Great relaxing family time, fishing on river close, close to tribble fork and silver lakes."
Off-season tranquility: September and October camping provides unique advantages. Sara M. found Tanners Flat ideal in early fall: "September/early October gives cooler temperatures and less crowds, and we got to see some lovely fall colors. The camp hosts were excellent as well." She added, "As SLC natives, we're making this our yearly fall tradition!"
Shaded sites: Tree cover provides relief from summer heat. Lakeside RV Campground earns praise for its environment: "Nice simple camp ground no hook up but a good place to stay if visiting Salt Lake City and don't want to pay a lot for a camp ground big rig friendly!" The park features "nice level sites pull through FHU grassy spot between sites."
What you should know
Reservation demands: Competition for campsites intensifies during summer months. For Granite Flat, Ash S. warns: "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."
Water restrictions: Watershed protection impacts camping regulations. Jason H. explains about Little Cottonwood Canyon: "The nearby creek is pretty, but you cannot so much as wade in it without facing prosecution and a $1500 fine."
Urban noise factors: Campgrounds near population centers experience traffic sounds. Regarding Nunns Park, Michael L. notes: "Nice little park, sites are a little close. Our 20' trailer does fine. Close in to town, very pretty with Provo river next to it. Bike path and highway noise can be distracting."
Tips for camping with families
Group-friendly spaces: Some sites accommodate multiple tents. Helen A. found Nunns Park had "a couple spots that were semi private but most were very exposed. Lots of area on some of them though for multiple tents. The river is right there and makes some beautiful yet subtle white noise."
Recreational amenities: Look for campgrounds with additional activities. Brad B. reports that at Willow Park Campground: "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."
Easy access options: Consider beginner-friendly sites for young children. About Little Mill, Caden W. observes: "This is a really easy-access campground so it's great for little kids. beautiful canyon, lots of spots, and just a great time! If you're looking to really rough it though, go further up the canyon."
Tips from RVers
Late season access: Some campgrounds extend operating dates. Jack B. appreciated Little Mill because: "We arrived late but found maybe the last campsite available. Check in was easy, campsite was nice. The other campers weren't loud when trying to sleep. Plus it's open longer than any other campsites around so that makes it a real treat when it gets cold."
Space considerations: Site dimensions vary significantly between campgrounds. At Mountain Shadows RV Park, one camper found "Challenging back-in for our 30' ft travel trailer. Very cramped spot. Fortunately, we arrived before neighbors on both sides did."
Urban convenience: Some RV parks offer proximity to city services. Jeremy H. describes Salt Lake City KOA as "An inexpensive stay in town near great places like Silicon Slopes, Thanksgiving Point, Utah Lake, Traverse Mountain and centered between Salt Lake and Provo. This is a nice spot along the Jordan River Parkway."
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