Settlement Canyon offers full hookup camping options from May through September with sites priced around $20 per night. The main campground area sits 2.5 miles up a canyon road from Tooele, at approximately 5,400 feet elevation, providing cooler temperatures than the valley below. Several sites have views of surrounding mountains, and most campgrounds in the Grantsville area close during winter months due to heavy snowfall.
What to do
Hiking to Deseret Peak: A 7-mile trail leads to this 11,000-foot summit, offering views extending to Nevada. "There are some great areas for hiking and is really close to the reservoir for some awesome fishing," notes a visitor at Settlement Canyon. Multiple trailheads connect directly to campgrounds in the area.
Fishing at nearby reservoirs: Several small lakes provide fishing opportunities within 15-30 minutes of most camping areas. "We stayed here for one night didn't go past the gate we just camped pretty much on the side of the dirt road next to the reservoir. It was really nice and quiet wildlife everywhere," reports a camper at Settlement Canyon.
Mountain biking on canyon trails: The terrain surrounding Loop Campground offers intermediate to advanced trails. "For those that want to get a little closer to the peak, there is a 7 mile one way trail to the top of Deseret Peak that offers amazing views of the Great Salt Lake Valley," shares one reviewer, noting the trail works for both hiking and biking.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Animals frequently visit campsites in the area. "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," writes a reviewer at Settlement Canyon.
Distance between sites: Many campgrounds offer good spacing between sites. "The campground itself was lovely. Very peaceful, good distance between sites. The camp host was really nice," reports a visitor to Loop Campground, noting the privacy makes it ideal for family gatherings.
Forested settings: Most sites feature tree cover. "It's a lovely forested area and the fall colors are just turning. Very friendly gate staff," shares a guest at White Rock Bay Campground, highlighting the seasonal color changes that attract visitors during autumn months.
What you should know
Limited services: Many campgrounds require self-sufficiency. "I have a small SUV, so I buy firewood and fill up water containers after I've set up camp. 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," reports a camper at Loop Campground.
Weather conditions: Wind and storms can impact camping experiences. "We were in a tent and the wind shook our tent back and forth all night. No sleep. But the views getting out of the tent in the morning were incredible," notes a visitor to White Rock Bay.
Cell service limitations: Most campsites have limited or no connectivity. "The only two bad things that we noticed it 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," explains a reviewer at Settlement Canyon/Legion Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment options: Limited amenities mean planning activities. "We brought a whole bunch of teenage girls for my daughter's birthday party and they were able to be loud and did not disturb anybody. The dry camping spots are very spacious lots of space for the walk around and play and run," shares a family at Settlement Canyon.
Choose sites with shade: Summer temperatures can reach 90°F during day. "The sites are pretty close together so if you prefer solitude consider backpacking to White or Red Pine Lake or Lake Blanche in the nearby Big Cottonwood Canyon north of here," advises a visitor to Tanners Flat.
Consider glamping options: For families wanting more comfort, glamping in Grantsville, Utah provides ready-made accommodations. "We only stayed overnight but it was a blast! The campsites had good space between each other. Each one had a fire pit and picnic table," notes a reviewer at Settlement Canyon, where glamping options include furnished sites.
Tips from RVers
Water management: Limited water access requires planning. "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," notes an RV camper at Little Mill Campground, suggesting weekday visits for less crowding.
Pad leveling: Many sites require leveling equipment. "Just returned from an overnight stay at Little Mill with amazing American Fork Creek right beside my sites. The campground is clean, no water, trash or electric and vault toilets," shares an RVer, emphasizing the importance of bringing leveling blocks for comfortable setup.
