Antelope Island State Park sits within the Great Salt Lake at 4,200 feet elevation. Camping options near Hooper, Utah span from lakeside state park sites to desert campgrounds and RV resorts. The region experiences harsh temperature contrasts with summer highs reaching 100°F and winter temperatures dropping well below freezing. Wildlife viewing opportunities include bison, pronghorn antelope, and various bird species that inhabit the salt flats and surrounding mountains.
What to do
Wildlife photography: Make time to capture the island's unique wildlife. At Bridger Bay Campground, campers have exceptional opportunities for animal viewing. "We saw bison and antelope driving in the park," reports James B. The diverse wildlife continues throughout the seasons. "An amazing place to kick back, relax, and hangout with bison. They walk up and graze through the campsites which is a beautiful thing to wake up to," notes John C.
Mountain biking: Access well-maintained trails near the camping areas. At North Fork County Park, visitors find excellent trail systems. "Had a great stay at North Fork. Camped in the canyon near the trailhead for the waterfall hike... Excellent mountain bike trails also. Can't wait to go back and ride more of them," writes Rich J. The area offers trails for various skill levels with connections to longer routes.
Stargazing: Take advantage of minimal light pollution. Simpson Springs Campground provides exceptional night sky viewing. "Stunning sunsets" are frequently mentioned in reviews, with the wide-open desert skies offering spectacular celestial viewing opportunities. The west desert location, away from urban centers, creates ideal conditions for observing stars, planets, and meteor showers.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Enjoy ample room between campsites. At White Rock Bay Campground, "The campground is very spread out and provides lots of space between you & other campers, so that's a plus," notes Caroline N. This arrangement allows for more privacy than typical campgrounds. "The sites were plenty big, each had a fire pit and picnic table and were close to legit toilets," adds Stephanie about North Fork Park.
Creek access: Cool off during hot summer days. North Fork Park offers creek-front camping options. Morgan L. reports, "There's a tiny-creek front, meadow, shaded and unshaded, and a specific area for if you bring horses. You choose what you want." David H. confirms, "Got lucky and lined up the three spots in a row right by the creek (last three before the trail up to the falls)."
Winter camping opportunities: Experience the region in its quieter season. The area offers year-round camping at several locations. Susan R. shares about Bridger Bay: "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. We don't have to worry about the bugs, being it's December."
What you should know
Insect activity: Biting bugs can be overwhelming during peak season. At Ladyfinger Campground, seasonal insects are a significant consideration. "The island is absolutely beautiful, the bison amazing and we looked at two campgrounds that were both in great locations, with great spots. Unfortunately all that beauty can't distract you from the thousands of bugs that are determined to eat you alive," warns Big_Tan_Turtle. Georgia L. confirms: "Lovely scenery... 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."
Wind exposure: Prepare for significant gusts, especially in exposed areas. Several campgrounds in the region have limited tree coverage. Caroline N. reports about White Rock Bay: "The campsites provide 0 protection from the wind. We were in a tent and the wind shook our tent back and forth all night." Patience C. adds: "I have never encountered such winds! Had to chase everything!"
Water availability: Not all campgrounds offer year-round water access. Current visitors to Antelope Island should note infrastructure changes. "At the time of our visit, the park was rebuilding its visitor center. This meant there is currently no running water so no toilets other than pit and no showers," reports @57overlander C. Kim G. confirms: "Right now there is no water on the island due to construction at the visitors center."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly trails: Access multiple hiking options with leashed pets. Pet friendly camping near Hooper, Utah includes Simpson Springs Campground, where Teresa T. notes: "The views are stunning... wild horses, antelopes. You could hear coyotes howl through the night... campsite was clean." Michelle B. cautions: "Be aware there are rattle snakes. Saw one at the pump but none near our campsite."
Splash pad amenities: Cool down with nearby water features. Families with children may appreciate Hill AFB FamCamp's location. Chris L. reports: "The campground is right next to the base splash pad and a big park." Gwenn S. adds: "It's a little exposed but love the easy in easy out and access to the bike path and nearby splash pad."
Waterfall hikes: Enjoy short trails suitable for children. North Fork Park offers accessible waterfall hikes. Morgan L. shares: "There's a short waterfall hike, but also a long hike that will take you up to Ben Lomond Peak & cut across to Willard Peak." Fale L. confirms: "Clean bathrooms throughout, hike to the waterfall or ride the mountain bike trail!"
Tips from RVers
Overnight stopover options: Use convenient locations along travel routes. Century RV Park provides easy access for those passing through. "No frills (they do have a pool) RV Park right next to the I-15 freeway in Ogden. Great desk staff. Good prices. Great option if you just need an overnight," advises David B. Calvin B. adds: "Friendly and helpful people. Clean. Attractive. Some freeway noise at our site... but wasn't a big deal."
Hookup availability: Plan for seasonal limitations at some campgrounds. On Antelope Island, John C. notes: "Right now the island doesn't have water so come prepared. Electrical hook ups. State parks always skoolie friendly." For full hookups, Riverside RV Resort offers reliable amenities. Patrick J. reports: "The sites, streets, and pads, all in excellent condition. Everything looks new. Location is between the interstate and a railroad. Pretty quiet surprisingly."
Big rig access: Select sites compatible with larger vehicles. Several RV parks in the area accommodate large rigs. Rebecca notes about Century RV Park: "Clean place, lots of amenities, and great staff. Price is competitive for this area." For alternative locations with more space, Kloee S. suggests Hill AFB FamCamp: "Pull in sites are best with nice sized yards and easy in/out. Some of the backins are tricky for large rigs that need a large turning zone to back in because of trees in the center area."
