Cabin camping near Cottonwood Heights, Utah ranges from rustic accommodations to modern retreats within a 60-mile radius. Winter cabin rentals remain available at sites like Mountain Valley RV Resort and River's Edge at Heber Valley when many state park facilities close due to seasonal conditions. Most cabins sit at elevations between 5,000-8,000 feet where temperatures can drop significantly at night even during summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: East Canyon State Park offers convenient lake access for anglers. According to James, "My campsite was in good shape upon setting up my 30ft trailer. All sites are back-in and mostly flat asphalt. A little rig leveling might be needed. The outside of the loop at Dixie C.G. is electric and water only. The inside of the loop has full hook-ups."
Wildlife viewing: At Bridger Bay Campground, visitors can observe free-ranging bison and pronghorn antelope. Steven notes, "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 (Fielding Garr Ranch) which is adorable and definitely worth a visit."
Winter activities: Camping cabins at Mountain Valley RV Resort serve as convenient basekeeping for ski trips to nearby resorts. Matt explains, "Beautiful and cozy cabin with an absolutely stunning view of Mount Timpanagos. Great access to the nice town of Heber City and just close enough to Salt Lake City, Provo and Park City without feeling stuck in a metropolis."
What campers like
Heated facilities: While many state park cabins lack heating systems, the private resorts maintain year-round comfort. Amy from River's Edge at Heber Valley writes, "We loved our time at this beautiful park so much we added an extra day to our trip. The customer service was excellent- there was a friendly family vibe. Everything was very clean."
Proximity to trails: Tanners Flat provides direct access to hiking paths in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Alan explains, "Nearby attractions include Lisa Falls, Cecret Lake and numerous summertime activities at Snowbird and Alta ski resorts. During the summer at Snowbird there are summer slides kind of like dry bobsleds and the tram runs all the way up to Hidden Peak."
Off-season solitude: Cabin campers find quieter experiences during shoulder seasons. Sara notes about Tanners Flat, "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!"
What you should know
No-pet watersheds: Little Cottonwood Canyon prohibits all pets due to watershed regulations. Andrea from Tanners Flat confirms: "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: Highway-adjacent cabin sites may experience traffic noise. One Echo Island Ranch visitor reports, "A lot of road noise and the 30amp electric did not work at our site, site 151. Front office was closed and no one returned our call when we called the number provided."
Reservation timing: Summer cabin rentals at state parks often fill 4-6 months in advance. Joseph advises about Tanners Flat: "It can be tricky to get a spot here in the summer. Make sure to call ahead!"
Tips for camping with families
Multi-generational activities: Heber Valley cabins provide options for various age groups. Cindy from Mountain Valley RV Resort shares, "We were welcomed immediately upon the drive in, explained the amenities and given a welcome packet. Our pull through site was perfect size right next to clubhouse, laundry, clean showers and bathrooms."
Water recreation: Summer cabins near reservoirs offer swimming and boating options. A visitor to Echo Island RV Resort notes, "They had a small pond for kids to fish in, 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."
Private site selection: Some cabins offer more privacy than others. A camper at Pine Creek Campground recommends, "This campground has 3 loops. 1 for tents, 1 for medium size trailers. 1 for large trailers. Check the website or call the guard station before booking to double check. It's close to 2 reservoirs, tons of dirt bike and side by side trails, and Heber city."
Tips from RVers
Winter access: Private resort cabins often remain open year-round with plowed access roads. Karla notes about Mountain Valley RV Resort, "This spacious RV park has two pools (one limited to adults only), two dog parks (one large enough for big dogs to run and fetch), two sets of pickle ball courts and is spacious and level and nice."
Site selection strategy: Cabins on the outer edges of campgrounds typically offer more space and privacy. Mark advises for Dixie Creek Campground, "Spot 28 which was good and had view of lake until neighbor pulled in with a giant 5th wheel. Spot 19 is in the middle and seems to have a good view regardless of who is parked in adjacent spots, and spot 32 also seems to have a good view and the advantage of being on the outer edge."
