Camping opportunities in the Centerville area range from 4,500 to 8,000 feet elevation with distinct seasonal temperature shifts. The Weber River watershed provides several stream-fed camping areas with access to both alpine environments and reservoir recreation. Summer temperatures can reach 90°F during day while dropping to 50°F at night at higher elevations.
What to do
Fishing at local streams: Echo Island RV Resort offers fishing access directly on property. One visitor noted, "Lovely stream on property where you can fish and low mountains on several sides." The resort provides both RV sites and glamping accommodations for those wanting fishing without primitive camping.
Mountain biking access: Spruces - Big Cottonwood serves as an excellent base for nearby trails. A camper shared, "We went on many different hikes right from the campground and a few others not far away. We saw moose, went fishing, and even stopped for icecream at stone hass in the solitude village right up the street."
Winter recreation: Some campgrounds in the area offer winter access for yurt camping near Centerville. "Wonderful winter wonder land you can snowshoe into in the winter and camp at! You can also stay here during the summer just be prepared to book a couple months in advance," explained one reviewer about Spruces campground.
What campers like
Lake views with wildlife: White Rock Bay Campground offers sites with views of Great Salt Lake. A camper mentioned, "The campgrounds were very open with not many trees but a great view of the lake. We saw fox that came right up to our tent and lots of bison close by."
Stream sounds: Redman Campground provides sites next to flowing water. "We camped next to a small stream which added nice background noise. We enjoyed a campfire and some s'mores," reported one visitor. The campground's elevation keeps temperatures cooler than the valley floor.
Pool facilities: Several resorts offer swimming pools as alternatives to lake swimming. At Echo Island RV Resort, one guest explained: "This site was very big & the creek surrounded on two sides. It even had 2 picnic tables. When we were here, this part of the campground was empty across from us & site beside us was empty which we loved!"
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds require early bookings, especially for weekend stays. A Spruces visitor advised, "Good clean restrooms, friendly rangers, and most sites are pretty private. Be aware of your travel plans and book early because the campground fills fast."
Bug considerations: Anderson Cove offers lake access but has seasonal insect challenges. White Rock Bay campers report: "The bugs have gone down considerably and therefore you won't get eaten alive!" Fall camping often provides better conditions regarding insects.
No dogs allowed: Several watershed campgrounds prohibit pets. "I love the scenery. You can get to donut falls from the camp ground which is awesome. Sites are mostly private. Some more so than others. My only complaint is there are no dogs allowed," reported a Spruces camper.
Gate closure times: Some facilities have strict entry hours. A camper at Spruces noted, "Make sure you get camped and in because they lock the gate coming into campground at 11PM and you have to hike in."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Multiple lakes and reservoirs offer swimming and boating near campsites. At Dixie Creek Campground, a visitor commented: "The state park is on the northeast shore of the lake and features lots of good fishing as well as picnic areas and some exposed hot hiking trails."
Yurt accommodations: For families new to yurt camping in Centerville area, Dixie Creek Campground provides solid structures. One visitor shared, "We stayed in a yurt and it was an amazing experience! The yurt had a cozy gas powered fireplace. It got down to about 30 degrees but we were actually too hot."
Bathroom facilities: Look for campgrounds with flush toilets for easier family camping. At Redman Campground, a reviewer noted, "The campsites are clean, the bathrooms are exceptionally clean with flushing toilets, you are a walk or hike away from Brighton and immersed in some of the most beautiful mountains around."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Hill AFB FamCamp offers military members access to organized camping. A reviewer advised, "The sites are tightly packed. The hook ups (especially sewer) are awkwardly to the far rear of the sites. All black top and gravel, which really gets warm on the hot July days."
Pull-through availability: Some resorts feature easier access sites. At Echo Island, one RVer noted, "Good park design for the back up sites to get a large trailer situated no problem. Seems like a large and very nice pool, although I did not us those facilities."
Seasonal operation: Many campgrounds close during winter months, but some offer heated options. Pony Express RV Resort operates year-round with a visitor mentioning, "Very clean and pet friendly. Can see mountains all around you. Great WiFi and good water. Three dog parks and dog washing bay."
