Murray sits at the base of the Wasatch Mountains in Utah at an elevation of about 4,300 feet, serving as a convenient basecamp for exploring nearby camping areas with diverse terrain options. Camping options near Murray range from established campgrounds with full amenities to primitive backcountry sites accessible by hiking trails, with seasonal temperature variations that significantly impact camping conditions between May and October.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: At Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping, visitors find numerous trail options for day hikes or backpacking trips. "Millcreek Canyon is home to some wonderful trails that can be accessed by foot or bike. Although the canyon offers many hiking trails, the main use of the trails seems to be for trail running," notes Sean H. The canyon requires a $5 per car entrance fee and offers dog-friendly trails.
Water activities: Jordanelle State Park provides multiple water recreation options within 45 minutes of Murray. "Great place close to SLC and park city and for the most part it was surprisingly quiet, though that could be a fluke as it got busier during the day. Feel like we just lucked out especially in renting water toys as sounds like they are usually booked out if not reserved well in advance," writes Angie G. Fishing is also popular, with campers reporting consistent catches.
Trail running: The trail systems near Murray offer excellent options for runners. In American Fork Canyon, Little Mill Campground provides quick access to multiple running trails. "Little Mill is a quick trip up American Fork Canyon. Runs parallel to the popular alpine loop road and the creek. Close to Timpanogas Cave trailhead," according to Andrea P. Trail runners can access routes directly from campsites.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Pony Express RV Resort maintains exceptional standards for cleanliness. "The facility is spotless! Seriously, the staff keep the entire grounds in great condition," writes Derek E. Campers frequently mention the private shower/toilet facilities and well-maintained common areas.
River access: Multiple campgrounds feature stream or river proximity. "We LOVED Little Mill! It's the perfect campground. It has the smell of pine trees, a babbling brook, and it is just down the road from Timpanogos Cave National Monument," shares Stacy R. Sites along creeks often fill first, especially during summer months when water access becomes valuable for cooling off.
Dog-friendly options: Beyond the dog parks mentioned in the existing description, additional dog friendly campgrounds near Murray include Willow Park Campground. "This is a great place to camp within the city of Lehi. It is close to the water and in the hot summer it is a fun spot for a night get away. Big camp sites for trailers or tents and nice bathrooms," says Brad B. Dogs must remain leashed except in designated areas.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many popular campgrounds require advance planning. At Granite Flat, securing a spot can be challenging. "Book EARLY! This campsite is always full," advises Andrea P. Another camper notes: "Be aware that this campsite reservations for the weekend fill up quick. I checked in late May and every weekend until September was already booked."
Urban proximity noise: Campgrounds closer to the city experience traffic and urban sounds. At Salt Lake City KOA, "Be warned, it is NOT quiet - there are multiple trains/sirens/large semis blowing by all night," reports North Idaho N. Similarly, Little Mill campers note: "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."
Road conditions: Access to some dispersed camping areas requires appropriate vehicles. For Silver Lake Backcountry, "You're definitely going to need 4WD and high clearance because the roads leading up to the campsite are filled with ruts and holes," warns Ethan H. Verify road conditions before attempting access, especially after rain.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Willow Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities including play structures. "This is just down the street from our house but it's a fun place for family, neighborhood and scout camp outs any time of year. Great trails, playground, river access, and lots of room to spread out!!" says Jeremy H. The campground also includes sand volleyball courts.
Weather preparation: Temperature variations can be extreme, particularly at higher elevation campgrounds. At Timpooneke, families should "camp here often as it is so beautiful here. There are a couple of nearby trails and amazing views all around. It can get cold at night - high elevation," cautions Angee D. Pack appropriate clothing for chilly evenings even in summer.
Water play options: Several campgrounds provide stream access for children. Little Mill offers "great relaxing family time, fishing on river close, close to tribble fork and silver lakes," according to Monica B. Families report children enjoy wading in shallow stream sections during warmer months.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Full-service RV sites are concentrated in specific campgrounds. "Paved 80 mile bike trail along Jordan River. Narrow interior roads. Nice bathhouses with private shower/toilets. Wifi and cable," notes Janet H. about Pony Express RV Resort, adding that sites are "typically close with grass area separating. No shade or privacy."
Cost considerations: RV campers report varying price points for full-hookup sites. "Convenient location right off the highway with full hook ups and nice paved sites. Dog areas, playground, games, and a pool. Easy access to the Jordan River Trail for running, biking, or sunset walks," reports Cheriana G. who found Pony Express RV Resort a reasonable option despite being "$59 a night," according to another reviewer.
Pull-through availability: For larger rigs, Mountain Shadows RV Park provides "spacious sites, ours had nice grass, dog friendly. Big beautiful dog run area with a waterfall," according to Donna H., who traveled in a "40 foot with a tow" and found it "a very easy on off expressway stop."
Guide
