Camping options near Bluffdale, Utah range from 6,400 to 7,400 feet in elevation, providing varying temperatures and environments throughout the camping season. The surrounding canyons feature distinctive geological formations with limestone and dolomite slopes. Access to many campgrounds requires advance planning as sites frequently fill weeks or months ahead during peak season.
What to do
Paraglider watching and hiking: Flight Park State Recreation Area serves as a premier launch spot for paragliders. "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," notes one visitor at Flight Park State Recreation Area.
Mountain biking accessible trails: Redman Campground puts you near excellent mountain biking routes. "This is super close to my favorite mountain bike ride in Northern Utah - The Wasatch Crest Trail. There's nothing like riding a bike through deep dark forests, soaring mountains, and stretching meadows riddled with flowers," explains a reviewer.
Glacier viewing day trips: Mt. Timpanogos offers glacier access. "We hiked up the Emerald Lake at the basin of MT. Timpanogos, and set up camp there. Water is available through the glacial Emerald Lake. Bring all your own camping gear and flashlights! The stars in the early morning provide unparalleled views," shares one camper at Mt. Timpanogos.
Rock climbing challenges: Granite Flat provides access to historic climbing routes. "We've been up this canyon many times before, mostly for climbing. This canyon holds some of the most historic sport routes in America as some of the hardest routes in the country, at the time, were established here in the late 80's and early 90's."
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Redman Campground delivers consistent wildlife viewing. "Very nice campground with water running in multiple places, clean multiple bathrooms and incredible wildlife coming right into your site. In addition to numerous deer, we had two moose munching away at the willow at the adjacent site," reports a camper at Redman Campground.
Seasonal foliage changes: Fall camping offers unique experiences. "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. As SLC natives, we're making this our yearly fall tradition!" shares a visitor at Tanners Flat.
Proximity to water features: Spruces Campground includes stream access. "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 and you are just a short drive from Silver Lake," explains a camper.
High elevation escapes: Many glamping yurts near Bluffdale sit at cooler elevations. "Timpooneke is beautiful. High elevation (7400ft) campground up the popular Alpine Loop. Book EARLY - it's very popular. Near hiking trails and reservoirs (no motor sports). Equestrian sites can be used by people without horses too."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Competition for spots means planning ahead. "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," warns a visitor to Granite Flat.
Canyon access restrictions: Little Cottonwood Canyon prohibits pets. "Tanners flat is a close trip up Little Cottonwood Canyon. NO Dogs allowed in the canyon - it is a watershed. Very popular spot for locals to day trip or weekend trip."
Noise considerations: Road proximity affects some sites. "My only reason this campground didn't get 5 stars is due to the horrible road noise. I seriously thought I was at a truck stop off the interstate. Honking and racing cars until 3am just ruined it. If noise doesn't bother you head on over."
Weather conditions: High elevation means temperature drops. "This campground is within 40 minutes of town, but feels like you are far away from your worries. There is a stream that runs thru it and a lot of trees that provide plenty of shade. There are several hiking trails within walking distance."
Tips for camping with families
Group site options: Larger family gatherings need specific spaces. "There were 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," advises a visitor to Nunns Park.
Kid-friendly activities: Multiple options for children exist throughout the area. "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."
Tent site selection: Not all sites accommodate family-sized tents. "The campground is pretty, but it is not for family camping with a tent. This campground has pull-through areas for people towing camping trailers, but not much for those that want to set up a full-size tent and lounge around outside."
Recreation areas: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play spaces. "There is a huge spot of grass that you can play sports or baseball on. Can't remember the site we had but there was a huge rock that was fun for the scouts to climb on. Really nice spots with lots of trees and shade."
Tips from RVers
RV access limits: Big Cottonwood Canyon presents challenges for larger vehicles. "This campground is quiet and has abundant wildlife. It's better for small campers or tent campers as the driveways were not designed for big rigs," advises an RVer about glamping accommodations near Bluffdale.
Site leveling needs: Some locations require preparation. "The one downside was that the tent spot was not flat, and had quite a few large rocks. Otherwise, it was great. We will be back," notes a visitor from Timpooneke Campground.
Late arrival considerations: Gates close at specific times. "Make sure you get camped and in because they lock the gate coming into campground at 11PM and you have to hike in. Really nice campsites with really nice bathrooms and picnic tables."
Utility availability: Water access varies seasonally. "I got an email this morning informing me to bring all of my water we need, as of now there is no water. So I called up Rec.gov and cancelled and due to the factor that the bathrooms were closed, and absolutely no water I requested a full refund."
