Camping near Midvale, Utah offers options ranging from high-elevation alpine sites to valley locations with significant temperature differences. The Wasatch Range campgrounds sit at 6,400-10,000 feet elevation, creating a 15-20°F temperature drop compared to Midvale's valley floor. This geographical diversity allows campers to choose between mountain escape and urban convenience throughout the May-October camping season.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: Red Pine Lake trail starts from the White Pine trailhead in Little Cottonwood Canyon, offering a moderately difficult 7-mile round trip hike. "This can be done in a short 4 hour 7 mile out and back day hike but can be fully enjoyed as a backpacking trip," notes one visitor to Red Pine Lake. Another adds, "Once you get up there the lake is absolutely beautiful. Would recommend going in mid summer so as to not need to worry too much about staying warm at night."
Fishing near camp: At Granite Flat Campground, several small reservoirs provide fishing opportunities within minutes of your site. "Great small reservoirs nearby for fishing, or canoeing- no motor sports allowed," mentions one camper. Another notes, "There are two reservoirs close by in Tibble Fork and Silverlake flat that are both beautiful."
Winter snowshoeing: Unlike most Wasatch campgrounds that close for winter, some areas remain accessible for snow activities. "You can snowshoe into in the winter and camp at!" explains a Spruces Campground visitor about off-season options. "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!"
What campers like
Water features: Proximity to streams and rivers ranks highly in camper reviews. One Tanners Flat visitor explains, "I booked a double site here for the first time, and they are beautiful. I enjoyed the location, the space, and my whole family did as well!" Another camper at Little Mill Campground notes, "We loved it. You could hear the river and we had a great time."
Fall season camping: Late season camping offers unique advantages with fewer crowds. "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!" reports a Tanners Flat visitor.
Accessibility from urban areas: Many campers appreciate the quick transition from city to nature. A Little Mill reviewer states, "Little Mill is beautiful and so easy to access. I appreciate that it's first come first serve for last minute campers like me." This sentiment appears in multiple reviews across different campgrounds, highlighting the convenience factor of camping near Midvale.
What you should know
No dogs allowed in watershed areas: Many canyon campgrounds prohibit pets due to watershed protection. "No dogs allowed in the canyon- it is a watershed," notes one Tanners Flat camper. Another visitor to Redman Campground adds, "We had planned to camp here but dogs are not allowed. This campground looked like an awesome spot."
Water restrictions: Access to drinking water varies significantly between campgrounds and seasons. A Spruces camper reported, "I got an email this morning informing me to bring all of our water we need, as of now there is no water." Water availability changes throughout the season and may not match what's listed online.
Noise considerations: Urban campgrounds experience significant noise from highways and infrastructure. At Mountain Shadows RV Park, reviews mention freeway noise as a major factor. One Pony Express RV Resort visitor noted, "Both my neighbors are permanent residents. The one just south of me has been sawing wood since we arrived. It's now 8:30pm and very much annoying."
Tips for camping with families
Easy hiking options: Family-friendly trails near campgrounds offer accessible adventures. "There is a huge spot of grass that you can play sports or baseball on. Really nice spots with lots of trees and shade. This is really close to some really good hikes like Stewart Falls, and tibble fork reservoir just minutes for your camp site," notes a visitor to Granite Flat.
Play facilities: Some campgrounds offer built-in entertainment for children. A Pony Express RV Resort reviewer mentions, "Nice bathhouses with private shower/toilets. Wifi and cable. Great play area. Bikes available including kid sized. Paved 80 mile bike trail along Jordan River. Giant chessboard."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer wildlife viewing opportunities. "We have almost always seen moose and deer in the camp ground and the kids love to catch fish in the stream," shares a Spruces camper. Another visitor to Redman Campground states, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site length limitations: Mountain campgrounds often have shorter sites unsuitable for larger rigs. "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," explains a Redman Campground reviewer.
Full hook-up options: For those requiring utilities, RV parks offer comprehensive services. "Pull throughs or back in on paved level sites. Picnic table. FHU. Sites typically close with grass area separating. No shade or privacy. Narrow interior roads," notes a Pony Express RV Resort camper.
Urban convenience: RV parks near Midvale provide easier access to city services. "Convenient location right off the highway with full hook ups and nice paved sites. Dog areas, playground, games, and a pool. Easy access to the Jordan River Trail for running, biking, or sunset walks," states a Pony Express reviewer.
