Anderson Cove campground sits on the eastern shore of Pineview Reservoir at an elevation of approximately 4,900 feet. The campground operates seasonally from mid-May through September with sites filling quickly after reservation windows open. During summer months, temperatures typically range from 75-90°F during daytime hours, cooling to 50-65°F overnight, making it comfortable for campers seeking relief from Salt Lake City's more intense heat.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: North Fork County Park offers extensive trail access just a short drive from Anderson Cove. "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. Go when there's no smoke and you'll have breathtaking views (I'd say May & June are your best bet)," notes Morgan L. from North Fork County Park.
Fishing opportunities: The Pineview Reservoir and surrounding waterways offer excellent fishing conditions. At nearby South Fork, campers have easy access to the Ogden River. "Right by most of the campsites you can fly fish or set off on a tubing adventure down the Ogden River! It is required that you have a life jacket before setting off," advises Alan B.
Paddleboarding and swimming: The reservoir provides calm waters perfect for paddleboarding. "We rode bikes and paddle boarded. Gets extremely busy on weekends but nice and quiet on the weekdays," reports Kristen W. about her experience at Anderson Cove. The numerous beach areas provide safe swimming zones with gradually sloping sandy bottoms.
What campers like
Easy reservoir access: The proximity to water remains a major draw. "This was a really nice place for only being 40 mins from the city. Good beach front not a far walk from our campsite. Lots of trees to hang your hammocks up on," shares Blake T. about his stay at Anderson Cove.
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the room to spread out at many area campgrounds. At North Fork County Park, "each of the sites seem to have plenty of space for any time of camping you do, and are well tended in between seasons and visitors. And even with the ample size of each site, you don't feel like you're in your neighbor's lap," says Dave D.
Family-friendly amenities: The area caters well to families with children. "We've camped all over in North Fork sites! Our family has our anual family reunion in Mustang Flats every summer, CW8 & CW9 are great for 5 families because they're connected by a little road," explains Fale L. about the group camping options at North Fork County Park.
What you should know
Reservations essential: Most sites throughout the area require advance planning. "You need to reserve sites here well in advance as it fills up for the entire Summer as soon as the reservation window opens," advises Barb D. about site availability at Anderson Cove.
Seasonal fire restrictions: Fire bans are common during dry periods, but some campgrounds have specially designed fire rings that remain usable. At South Fork, "there were fire bans in Utah but because of the type of fire set up on concrete and built in fire places, we were able to have a fire all night which was awesome," reports Tommy C.
Varying site quality: Not all sites offer equal amenities or privacy. "There are camp-sights on blacktop and on dirt. There is a boat ramp, store, dump station…It's not bad," notes Lisa W. about Anderson Cove, while another camper commented, "It's $38 a night. That gets you a spot on a paved pad, no hook ups. There are shade trees but they don't offer privacy."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation preparation: Bring appropriate water safety gear, especially for younger children. "We brought kayaks and float the river. The campground is right along the rivers edge which is nice and cool in the summer," recommends Alicia G. from South Fork.
Consider yurt camping: Yurt camping near Huntsville, Utah provides an excellent alternative for families who want comfort without hauling extensive gear. "We stayed in a yurt and it was an amazing experience! The yurt had a cozy gas powered fireplace. It got down to about 30 degrees but we were actually too hot. Beautiful views of the lake and mountains," shares Alyssa D. about the yurt options at Dixie Creek Campground.
Weekday visits preferred: For a less crowded experience, especially with children, aim for weekday stays. "Gets extremely busy on weekends but nice and quiet on the weekdays. Checked in on a Wednesday afternoon for FCFS site. Plenty open," advises Kristen W. about Anderson Cove.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Several campgrounds near Huntsville offer complete RV services. At Echo Island RV Resort, "nicely managed campground, good website, efficient reservation process. Management very helpful and friendly. The campsites are nicely spaced, good tree cover, green well kept lawn at all sites. Gravel slots, picnic tables and fire pits at each site," reports Alice P.
Leveling considerations: Be prepared for some uneven sites in the region. At Dixie Creek Campground, "all sites are back-in and mostly flat asphalt. A little rig leveling might be needed. The outside of the loop at Dixie C.G. is electric and water only. The inside of the loop has full hook-ups," advises James J.
Sewer connection length: Bring extra sewer hose for some campgrounds. One visitor notes, "Hookups were in good shape, note the sewer is toward the back, not the middle so bring lots of sewer hose," about their experience at Willard Bay State Park.
