Camping near Salt Lake City, UT

Camping near Salt Lake City, Utah ranges from high alpine sites at 6,400 ft elevation to lakeside spots at 4,200 ft. The Wasatch Mountains create distinct camping zones with temperature variations often 10-15°F cooler at higher elevations than downtown. Seasonal availability shifts dramatically with mountain campgrounds typically operating from late May through early October, while lower-elevation options remain open year-round.

What to do

Hike to scenic destinations: Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping offers numerous trails for hiking and backpacking. "Millcreek is a great escape from the city. All the camping is backcountry so you can pick any trail and just make sure that you are 1/2 mile off the road and at least 200 ft from developed areas and water," notes Dan G.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Bridger Bay Campground on Antelope Island, campers can observe native wildlife in their natural habitat. "Stopped here for a scenic spot to relax for the day and overnight. Nice level asphalt spots. Beautiful view of the lake. Saw bison and antelope driving in the park," reports James B.

Mountain biking access: The canyons east of Salt Lake City provide excellent mountain biking terrain. Redman Campground offers direct access to popular trails. "This is super close to my favorite mountain bike ride in Northern Utah - The Wasatch Crest Trail. As you can tell in the pictures, this area is very lush and rich with pine trees," explains Brendan A.

What campers like

Convenience to city amenities: The Salt Lake City KOA offers urban proximity with camping comforts. "We have stayed here several times when visiting family in SLC. Facilities are clean and the staff is nice," notes Kristi R., making it ideal for those needing city access.

Spacious group sites: Larger parties appreciate the group camping options at many locations. "We've used one of the group sites and a double site, and they are very roomy. The camp hosts have always been attentive, too," shares Jill B. about Redman Campground.

Winter camping opportunities: Unlike many mountain destinations, some Salt Lake City area campgrounds remain accessible year-round. "We are partial to winter due to the absolute lack of bugs and stunning contrast of the bison on fresh snow," mentions a camper about winter camping on Antelope Island.

What you should know

Watershed restrictions: Many canyon campgrounds have special regulations. "No dogs are allowed because this campground is in the Salt Lake City watershed," explains a visitor about Tanners Flat. Similarly, Spruces Campground in Big Cottonwood Canyon prohibits pets due to watershed regulations.

Insect activity varies by season: Bugs can be problematic in certain seasons. "Lovely scenery, water is currently off so no showers but has a clean pit toilet. Only downside was the no see um flys you can't for a walk without getting swarmed by them and bitten. Best to visit in the autumn when the flys have gone," advises Georgia L. at Bridger Bay.

Canyon road access limitations: Some canyon roads have seasonal closures or require appropriate vehicles. "If you've never driven up Farmington Canyon it is a steep road with no shoulder, I'd recommend a 4X4 or all wheel drive vehicle," advises Casey S. about accessing Bountiful Peak Campground.

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly amenities: Pony Express RV Resort offers facilities designed for families. "There are several different amenities including a pool, playground for the kids, life-size chessboard, and a mini-breed dog park!" shares Derek E.

Short family hikes: Many campgrounds offer nearby hiking trails suitable for young children. "There are all sorts of activities around that make it a perfect central spot - hiking Donut Falls and around Silver Lake are two kid-friendly ones we do," recommends Jill B. about staying at Redman Campground.

Swimming opportunities: Some locations offer swimming options for hot summer days. "We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river. Just a fun time," shares Kelli R. about Millcreek Canyon.

Tips from RVers

Site size considerations: Tanners Flat accommodates various camping setups. "The campground is pretty, but it is not for family camping with a tent. This campground has pull-through areas for people towing camping trailers, but not much for those that want to set up a full-size tent and lounge around outside," advises Jason H.

Urban RV options: For those requiring full hookups, urban options may be preferable. "Solid KOA campground with all the amenities you would expect including a pool and spa. Location of the campground is near the downtown area, with that you get all the noise of the city; traffic, sirens, and train horns," notes Daniel C. about Salt Lake City KOA.

Winter RV considerations: Year-round RV camping is available, with some parks specifically catering to winter visitors. "Good place to plug in at night between ski days. Friendly helpful staff," explains Terry G. about Salt Lake City KOA, highlighting its usefulness for winter activities.