Camping areas around Hooper, Utah span from the marshes of the Great Salt Lake to mountain forests at elevations between 4,000 and 9,000 feet. Overnight temperatures often drop 20-30 degrees from daytime highs, even in summer months. The region features both freshwater reservoirs and salt water options, creating distinct camping environments within an hour's drive.
What to do
Wildlife photography opportunities: At Bridger Bay Campground, visitors frequently encounter large mammals. "We saw bison and antelope driving in the park," notes James B., who appreciates the proximity to wildlife. John C. adds, "They walk up and graze through the campsites which is a beautiful thing to wake up to."
Waterfall hiking: The trails near North Fork County Park lead to hidden cascades. "There's a hidden waterfall you can hike too, and a river runs through the park," according to Debbie P. Rich J. confirms, "Camped in the canyon near the trailhead for the waterfall hike. We stayed at campsite 6 which was great, but they were all really nice."
Mountain biking: Trail networks extend through the foothills. Rich J. from North Fork Park reports, "Excellent mountain bike trails also. Can't wait to go back and ride more of them." Fale L. mentions, "Ride the mountain bike trail! All sizes of sites for all sizes of groups!"
What campers like
Spacious sites: Cottonwood Campground offers room to spread out. "The sites are well spaced apart giving plenty of privacy," says Erin A. "Very spacious pull ins, full hook ups, and a quick trip to the beach." Rara B. adds, "I loved that the sites were spacious, the grounds were clean and there were some great amenities."
Wildlife sightings: Bison encounters happen regularly. Whitney K. from White Rock Bay Campground reports, "We saw fox that came right up to our tent and lots of bison close by." Laura H. from Bridger Bay notes, "You'll see some bison, lizards, jack rabbits, and unique, for us, terrain."
Swimming opportunities: Freshwater options exist despite the salt lake proximity. Teresa A. from Mountain Shadows says, "We stopped on our way through the SLC area heading home. There are few options available being in a more populated area." At Hyrum State Park, Rachel G. enjoys "a great view of the lake!"
What you should know
Seasonal bug issues: Insects can be problematic certain times of year. Georgia L. from Bridger Bay warns, "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." A White Rock Bay visitor, Caroline N., reports, "We visited in early May when the No See Ums were at their peak, so forget enjoying a campfire at dusk, or anything at dusk."
Limited horse facilities: Few designated equestrian campsites exist near Hooper. The closest horse campgrounds near Hooper include White Rock Bay with no dedicated corrals. Equestrian camping options around Hooper, Utah require bringing portable corrals or high-lines. @57overlander C. notes, "The scenery is stunning and it's cool to see the Bison and Pronghorn. We even did the East Island drive and saw Burrowing Owls."
Seasonal road closures: Access to some areas varies by season. Nicholas A. from Dock Flat Campground cautions, "Gate doesn't open until Memorial Day weekend. Keep that in mind when planning a visit here." Austin T. confirms, "Gate at entrance was closed. Looks like a potential nice spot though."
Tips for camping with families
Book sites near water access: Waterfront locations provide entertainment. Kim G. notes, "Gorgeous views of the Great Salt Lake. Right now there is no water on the island due to construction at the visitors center." Morgan L. from North Fork Park shares, "My husband and I recently took our toddler and infant here and had a blast. They found joy in simply throwing pebbles in the creek and making mud."
Pack for temperature swings: Even summer nights get cold at higher elevations. "We traveled to Utah from California for our annual Christmas camping adventure. This was our first spot, and it was a wonderful place to start," says Susan R. from Bridger Bay, who visited in December.
Consider primitive locations for smaller crowds: Hyrum State Park Campground provides quieter options. Shawnee notes, "Stayed here on a road trip across the west. Easy late check-in, quiet (mostly RVs), and hot showers. Perfect for a night in the Logan area — it's located within a neighborhood on a lake."
Tips from RVers
Water availability varies: Some campgrounds have limited services. John C. from Bridger Bay advises, "Right now the island doesn't have water so come prepared. Electrical hook ups." Similarly, Kim G. notes, "Right now there is no water on the island due to construction at the visitors center."
Dump station access: Plan waste management accordingly. Erin A. mentions that Cottonwood has "full hook ups, and a quick trip to the beach." Brenda L. adds, "About 8 or 9 sites with w/e and about a dozen sites with dry camping. All the sites are paved (even the dry camping sites) and level. Grassy and shady on most sites. Two bathhouses and a dump on site."
Timing gate access: Some parks have restricted entry hours. Sandra W. from Hyrum State Park notes, "The only thing that was annoying is that they lock the front gate at 10PM so if you are out after that time, you have to park your car on the street and walk to your campsite." Brenda L. confirms, "It is totally fenced and gated. The gates close at 10pm and open at 6am."
