Antelope Island State Park offers two campgrounds located on an island in the Great Salt Lake at an elevation of 4,300 feet, approximately 25 miles from Layton, Utah. The terrain consists of grasslands with limited tree coverage, resulting in exposure to variable weather conditions including high winds. Temperatures range from 20°F in winter to 95°F in summer, with low annual rainfall of 15 inches making water conservation important for visitors.
What to do
Hiking mountain trails: For visitors seeking alternatives to equestrian activities, the North Fork County Park near Eden features multiple hiking paths including a waterfall trail. "Had a great stay at North Fork. 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. Excellent mountain bike trails also," shares Rich J. from North Fork County Park.
Wildlife viewing: Bridger Bay Campground offers opportunities to observe bison up close from campsites. "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. from Bridger Bay Campground.
Fishing and water recreation: Hyrum State Park Campground provides convenient lake access with boat ramps and a small beach area. According to Jake S., "I've camped here several times since I was a child. It's nice that there is a river that runs nearby. There are about 50 campsites on a first come first served basis."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: The dispersed camping areas at Dock Flat Campground offer ample room between sites. "Plenty of spots for rv/campers and tent campers. Had my own quiet spot with a great view of the stars," says John Rushton A. from Dock Flat Campground.
Unique lake views: Many campers value the distinctive Great Salt Lake landscapes visible from White Rock Bay Campground. "The landscape is beautiful but I cannot stress to you enough the amount of biting gnats there were. It was unbearable for us and bug spray didn't deter them one bit," warns Becca S. from White Rock Bay Campground.
Clean facilities: The maintained campgrounds at Timpooneke receive positive feedback for upkeep. One camper noted, "This campground is well maintained and nestled into some nice pine trees in view of the backside of Mount Timpanogos, it is divided into 3 areas, one of which has horse corrals."
What you should know
Insect concerns: May through August brings significant insect activity to lakeside campgrounds. A visitor to White Rock Bay 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."
Wind exposure: Sites with minimal tree cover experience strong winds, especially at higher elevations or near the Great Salt Lake. "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," shares Caroline N. from Cottonwood Campground.
Gate closure times: Several parks implement strict gate schedules that can impact late arrivals. Willow Park Campground operates under city regulations with specific entry hours, while other locations may have 10 pm closure policies requiring advance planning.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Willow Park Campground features play areas adjacent to campsites. Alex L. shares: "We were able to get a spot next to the Jordan River under a beautiful tree. We brought our 16ft camper and didn't need to back it in or anything. Spot was decently clean except for a leftover watermelon (which the kids gave to a family of ducks that visited the next morning.)"
Water recreation options: For families seeking alternatives to the Great Salt Lake, Hyrum State Park offers a small freshwater beach suitable for children. A recent visitor noted: "Loved this place will definitely go back. Spacious and not too crowded. Lots of hiking spots!"
Wildlife education opportunities: Bring binoculars for children to safely observe bison and antelope from appropriate distances. Laura H. from Timpooneke mentions: "The hiking trails are cool. You'll see some bison, lizards, jack rabbits, and unique, for us, terrain."
Tips from RVers
Levelness considerations: Many sites require preparation for uneven terrain, particularly at primitive locations. "Nice level asphalt spots. Beautiful view of the lake. Saw bison and antelope driving in the park," reports James B. about his stay at Bridger Bay.
Hookup availability: Cottonwood Campground offers full-service connections but requires extended sewer hose lengths. One RVer advises: "Very spacious pull ins, full hook ups, and a quick trip to the beach. Be aware that they DO NOT allow early arrival and will turn you away before 3pm even if the site is empty."
Road condition alerts: Access to campgrounds off main highways can involve rough terrain. Nicholas A. notes about equestrian camping locations: "Gate doesn't open until Memorial Day weekend. Keep that in mind when planning a visit here. TONS of places to camp further up if you are in a tent. Trailers should stick to the lower sections as it gets a bit difficult to navigate past the second campground."
