Settlement Canyon offers private and group camping sites about 35 minutes east of Dugway, Utah. Campsites can be reserved in advance for $20 per night, providing access to amenities including drinking water, vault toilets and fire rings. The canyon location sits at approximately 6,000 feet elevation, featuring a mix of developed and primitive sites amid aspen and pine forests.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Settlement Canyon provides several hiking options with wildlife viewing opportunities. "We woke up to see cows in the morning which the kids loved. Had some great areas for hiking and is really close to the reservoir for some awesome fishing," notes Carlee G. about Settlement Canyon/Legion Park Campground.
Mountain climbing: The terminus of South Willow Canyon Road offers access to multiple peaks. Loop Campground serves as an excellent staging area for hiking adventures, with nearby trails ranging from moderate day hikes to challenging summit attempts.
Paragliding viewing: Overnight guests at Flight Park State Recreation Area can observe paragliders launching from the hillside. "The camping is free and dispersed and there are lots of RVs up there... The location is where paragliders take off from which I'd imagine is pretty cool to watch," reports Mariah G.
What campers like
Peaceful surroundings: The mountainous terrain provides a quiet retreat. According to Naomi W. at Loop Campground, "The campground itself was lovely. Very peaceful, good distance between sites. The camp host was really nice."
Wildlife encounters: Multiple campers mention deer, cattle, and other wildlife sightings around their campsites. "You'll love sitting around your campfire watching the deer scamper in the mountains," shares Donna L. about Settlement Canyon.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location offers minimal light pollution. Zachary B. describes his experience at Settlement Canyon: "It was really nice and quiet wildlife everywhere billions of stars to look at that night."
What you should know
Limited services: Most campgrounds near Dugway have minimal amenities. Naomi W. cautions about Loop Campground: "I usually expect a decent drive to find what I need, but this involved a very long drive down a rutted gravel road, out of the canyon, and back to Grantsville. I think it was 40 minutes each way."
Wind conditions: Flight Park experiences significant wind, making it challenging for tent camping. "Very windy—20-30mph winds nearly everyday. That's why it's popular for hang gliding. Unless you're coming here to fly then it's a terrible spot!" warns David S.
Seasonal access: Many camping areas have limited access during winter months due to snow accumulation. Water availability varies by season, with most primitive sites requiring campers to bring their own supply.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for self-sufficiency: Pack all necessary supplies when glamping near Dugway. Warren W. from Settlement Canyon advises: "The only two bad things that we noticed was there was a lot of trash left over at the campground from the previous occupants. And there is no cell service at all unless you're up near the gate."
Consider spacious sites: Some campgrounds offer larger areas ideal for families. "The dry camping spots are very spacious lots of space for the walk around and play and run," notes Warren W. about Settlement Canyon/Legion Park Campground.
Prepare for weather variability: Mountain elevations experience significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. Temperatures can drop dramatically after sunset, even in summer months.
Tips from RVers
Level parking available: Settlement Canyon accommodates various RV sizes. Kim T. notes, "Great location to camp for touring Salt Lake City. Full hook-ups at a reasonable price. Sites are tight and busy on the weekends. Limited cell service."
Dispersed options for self-contained units: Flight Park offers limited designated camping with space for RVs. Jef E. explains, "Easy access for big rigs with just a couple stretches of gravel road. Nice level ground, wide open space. It can get extremely windy at night, but that was to be expected."
Plan for limited connectivity: Cell service is spotty throughout the area. Most RV sites lack hookups, so campers should arrive with full water tanks and charged batteries.
