Camping near Coalville, Utah centers on reservoir and river-based recreation with elevations averaging 5,800 feet. Sites typically open from late spring through fall with summer water temperatures reaching the mid-70s. Winter overnight temperatures can drop below freezing even in late summer due to the mountain valley location.
What to do
Kayaking on Echo Reservoir: Access the water directly from Dry Hollow Campground — Echo State Park, where campers enjoy easy water entry. "Echo Campground has a very peaceful and quiet atmosphere. We have always loved our stay at Echo Campground in Utah. The sites are very clean and the camp hosts are very accommodating," notes Char W.
River fishing: Multiple campsites offer stream access for fishing. At Echo Island RV Resort, visitors can fish directly on property. "Lovely spot on two small rivers with shade. Full hookups, spacious sites. Nice pool and hot tub," reports Paul Y. The resort also features "a small pond for kids to fish in," according to Carlee G.
Mountain biking: The historic Union Pacific Rail Trail connects Echo Reservoir to Park City, spanning approximately 28 miles of varied terrain. "Next to historic union pacific rail trail for hiking and biking... Runs from dam to park city about 28mi," explains Mark F., who recommends tubeless tires due to goatheads (puncture-causing thorns) on parts of the trail.
What campers like
Covered picnic areas: Many sites feature shade structures that provide relief during hot summer days. "Each site has a cement pad, water, electric, and a shelter which is great when it is 90 out with clear skies," shares Nicholas R. about Twin Coves — Rockport State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The mountain setting provides opportunities for wildlife observation. "Woke up to deer outside our yurt," reports Alyssa D. At Smith-Morehouse Campground, visitors can experience "peaceful wildlife, like deer" while camping near the reservoir.
Off-season quiet: Visiting outside peak summer months offers a more peaceful experience. "We pulled through late and found this hidden gem, electrical and water at all sites," mentions Dan B., who visited Echo Campground in spring. At Smith-Morehouse, one camper recommends Memorial Day and Labor Day visits: "We like to go up for Memorial Day and Labor Day. It feels wonderful up there then!"
What you should know
Seasonal pests: Insect populations vary by season and location. "Crazy amount of bugs. No mosquitoes as others have reported, just lake bugs that like your lights," reports Chris G. about camping at Echo. Smith-Morehouse can experience "many horseflies... all of the sudden" in early July according to Brendan A., who recommends avoiding this specific time.
Water pressure concerns: Some RV hookups have extremely high water pressure requiring regulators. At Holiday Hills RV Park, Joseph I. warns: "Note that the water pressure is VERY high!! 110psi - so make sure you bring and use a regulator."
Noise variables: Ambient noise varies by campground location. At Echo Campground, "I-80 is across the lake and you will hear trucks at night," notes Chris G. Holiday Hills can experience "loud music coming from the bar next to the campground," according to Richard Y., while other campers report Smith-Morehouse has "some noise at night -- music and generators, but overall not bad."
Tips for camping with families
Recreational options: Hailstone - Upper Fisher Campground — Jordanelle State Park offers various water activities suitable for children. "Fun for the whole family; kids, seniors, pets, etc! The fishing is really good too. We catch something every time we go," shares Derek E.
Kid-friendly facilities: Some campgrounds specifically cater to family activities. Echo Island RV Resort features "two swimming pools and two hot tubs, very clean and modern facilities, well maintained campsites with fire pit, a cute little shop with firewood, treats, and other necessities and they have dvds and sports equipment you can check out," according to Carlee G.
Camping surface considerations: Tent campers should note ground conditions can affect comfort. At Big Rock Campground — East Canyon State Park, sites are on hills overlooking the reservoir. At Holiday Hills, a camper notes, "Nice grassy area for tent camping, small river that runs through the campsite," making it more comfortable for ground sleepers.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campsites require adjustments for RVs. At East Canyon State Park's Dixie Creek Campground, James J. reports, "All sites are back-in and mostly flat asphalt. A little rig leveling might be needed."
RV size limitations: Larger rigs face constraints at certain campgrounds. Smith-Morehouse Campground has a "road [that] is tight. Our 26ft trailer was a little hard to navigate within the campground," according to one reviewer. They add, "Not much room to maneuver a trailer over about 25 feet."
Hookup availability varies: Water and electric availability differs by site and campground. At Echo Island RV Resort, Mike A. notes they "Reserved a few hours before arriving on a Sunday in June and there were plenty of spots," making it reliable for last-minute trips with hookup needs.
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