Camping spots near West Valley City, Utah primarily concentrate along the Wasatch Front in surrounding canyons and state parks. Elevation ranges from 4,300 feet in the valley to over 8,000 feet in mountain campgrounds, creating significant temperature differences between locations. Mountain campgrounds generally remain 15-20°F cooler than valley sites during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Little Mill campground serves as a convenient base for exploring American Fork Canyon with direct access to Timpanogos Cave National Monument. "Great relaxing family time, fishing on river close, close to tribble fork and silver lakes," notes a visitor at Little Mill.
Paddleboarding: Silver Lake Flat and Tibble Fork reservoirs near Granite Flat campground offer no-wake water recreation. "We were able to paddle board which was a blast! The owner was very nice and welcoming," shares a visitor to Granite Flat.
Wildlife viewing: Bridger Bay Campground on Antelope Island provides opportunities to observe free-roaming bison and other wildlife. "The bison are free grazing all around and a few came right up to our campground in the early morning! There are plenty of hiking trails to choose from with varying skill levels," reports a camper at Bridger Bay.
What campers like
Urban convenience: Salt Lake City KOA offers modern facilities within city limits. "The staff here are awesome. And the camp has a lot to offer!" says one visitor, while another notes, "We have stayed here several times when visiting family in SLC. Facilities are clean and the staff is nice."
Mountain seclusion: Spruces Campground in Big Cottonwood Canyon provides a forest escape. A camper explains: "We did not hear any road noise at all, just the sound of wind in the trees and the water flowing. It was so peaceful!" Another adds, "I just recently stayed at the Spruces. Loved it. Very peaceful. I stayed in campground #47. Right near the end of the loop before it goes into the peaceful forest section."
Lakeside views: Great Salt Lake State Park offers unique beach camping experiences. "We tent camped on the beach and loved it all from the oolitic sand to the absolutely insane sunrise view from the window of the tent!" shares one visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Water access varies significantly at mountain campgrounds. A recent visitor to Spruces campground reported: "I got an email informing me to bring all of the water we need, as of now there is no water."
Road noise levels: Some canyon campgrounds experience unexpected traffic noise. At Little Mill, a camper noted: "My only reason this campground didn't get 5 stars is due to the horrible road noise. I seriously thought I was at a truck stop off the interstate. Honking and racing cars until 3am just ruined it."
Bug conditions: Bridger Bay Campground visitors encounter seasonal insect issues. "The scenery is stunning and it's cool to see the Bison and Pronghorn. But honestly, it's hard to walk or bike because the bugs are so bad. I don't just mean the odd bite, I mean coated in biting gnats as soon as you go outside your vehicle."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Pony Express RV Resort includes multiple family amenities. "Nice bathhouses with private shower/toilets. Great play area. Bikes available including kid sized. Paved 80 mile bike trail along Jordan River Parkway. Giant chessboard. Nice pool area," reports a visitor to Pony Express RV Resort.
Urban park camping: Willow Park in Lehi offers accessible camping for families seeking minimal travel. "This has been a great experience so far been here twice this year. I really enjoy this camping ground, clean very friendly staff and running water bathrooms," notes a camper at Willow Park.
Shoulder season benefits: Tanners Flat campground offers advantages during non-peak times. "September/early October gives cooler temperatures and less crowds, and we got to see some lovely fall colors. The camp hosts were excellent as well. As SLC natives, we're making this our yearly fall tradition!"
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Mountain Shadows RV Park in Draper offers varying site configurations. One RVer explains: "Challenging back-in for our 30' ft travel trailer. Very cramped spot. Fortunately, we arrived before neighbors on both sides did. Neighbor on the right side was kind enough to put his awning in making our morning departure easier."
Hookup options: Great Salt Lake State Park provides limited RV accommodations. "Small RV park at state park with marina right on Great Salt Lake," notes one visitor, while another adds, "This is a pretty cool spot right next to the Great Salt Lake making for some nice views (sunset and sunrise were killer)."
Reservation timing: For national forest campgrounds, early booking is essential. A camper at Spruces advises: "Be aware of your travel plans and book early because the campground fills fast."
