Cottonwood Heights offers camping opportunities at elevations between 4,800 and 7,400 feet, with temperature variations of 30-40°F between day and night common in summer months. The surrounding canyons feature diverse terrain from high desert scrub to alpine forest. Seasonal road closures affect access to higher elevation campgrounds from October through May.
What to do
High elevation hiking trails: Access multiple trail systems from Mount Timpanogos Campground, located at approximately 6,400 feet elevation. "Our site was right by the entrance and near a stream bed that was dry. It was incredibly quiet, silent even, at night. Gorgeous but a little chilly," reports Lauren.
Fishing options: Several reservoirs near Granite Flat Campground provide fishing opportunities without motorized boats. "Great small reservoirs nearby for fishing, or canoeing- no motor sports allowed," notes Andrea P. Campsites fill quickly during summer weekends, with one visitor noting, "I checked in late May and every weekend until September was already booked."
Wildlife viewing: Explore wildlife viewing opportunities at Bridger Bay Campground where free-ranging bison can be seen. "The bison are free grazing all around and a few came right up to our campground in the early morning! There is a ranch on the far side of the island which is adorable and definitely worth a visit," shares Steven M.
What campers like
Natural features: Campers at Kimball Campground appreciate the wooded sites and proximity to trails. "The campsites are beautiful, and within walking distance to the trailhead to hike the 2.2 mile hike up to Silver Lake," notes Emily T., adding, "only complaint is the dirt is very chalky and dusty, and keeping your gear clean is not really an option here."
Water access: Many campgrounds feature nearby water access for non-motorized activities. At Granite Flat, one visitor mentioned, "We were able to paddle board which was a blast! I loves being so close and having access to so many beautiful hikes and rock climbing. We were right next to a beautiful river and it was pretty quiet."
Mountain views: The areas surrounding Cottonwood Heights offer mountain vistas from multiple elevations. At Mount Timpanogos Campground, Jeff H. recommends, "Particularly recommend site 16. Perfect view of Mt Timpanogos." The surrounding areas feature views of multiple peaks including Box Elder Peak and the Alpine Ridge.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to Silver Lake Backcountry requires appropriate vehicles. "You're definitely going to need 4WD and high clearance because the roads leading up to the campsite are filled with ruts and holes," warns Ethan H. Another camper notes, "You can't drive to the coordinates, you have to park at the uppermost parking lot for Silver Flat and hike up to a camping spot."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds near Cottonwood Heights require advance booking. At Timpooneke Campground, one visitor warns, "After failing to get a walk up at granite flats because everything was reserved, we tried Timpooneke. Online it indicates that they have lots of walk ups, however, driving through we only saw 2 with the W designation."
Weather variations: The high elevation campgrounds experience significant temperature drops at night. Adam B. reports, "Mountains are very beautiful up here. As always people don't seem to understand the concept of pack it in pack it out so there is some trash but much better than most other sites."
Tips for camping with families
Scout-friendly locations: Several sites accommodate groups and offer activities. At Willow Park Campground, Brad B. notes, "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. Close to a river and have lots of space."
Playground access: Families with young children have options for built-in entertainment. Myrna G. mentions Willow Park Campground "has a playground, sand volleyball, boat launch as you're near the Jordan River." These amenities can help keep children entertained during downtime at camp.
Gate closure timing: Check for gate restrictions that may impact late arrivals. At Granite Flat, one visitor warns, "Make sure you get camped and in because they lock the gate coming into campground at 11PM and you have to hike in." This is especially important when camping with children who may need rest after travel.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Few campgrounds near Cottonwood Heights offer full RV hookups. At Mountain Shadows RV Park, Teresa A. notes, "The RV park was exactly as expected. Facilities were clean. There were a lot of campers there on a more permanent basis which didn't affect my review." This park is one of the few near Cottonwood Heights with sewer hookups.
RV size limitations: Most national forest campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. Daniel L. advises about Mount Timpanogos Campground: "Sites are small and primarily tent sites. There are a couple sites which would accommodate a small 16 ft trailer. We had to unhook and park diagonal to fit small trailer and short truck."
Dump station availability: Willow Park provides camping without hookups but at reasonable rates. Salvy F. reports, "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!"
