Camping sites near West Jordan, Utah range from urban state parks to canyon campgrounds at elevations of 6,400-7,500 feet. The region experiences high temperature variations with summer days reaching 90°F in the valley while mountain camping areas remain 15-20 degrees cooler. Canyon campgrounds typically open May through October, with some sites requiring advance booking up to six months before arrival.
What to do
Hiking from camp: At Granite Flat Campground, campers can access multiple hiking trails including the route to Stewart Falls. "We were able to paddle board which was a blast! I loves being so close and having access to so many beautiful hikes and Rick climbing. We were right next to a beautiful river and it was pretty quiet," notes one visitor.
Water activities: Just 15 minutes from the campground, Tibble Fork and Silver Lake Flat reservoirs offer fishing and non-motorized boating. "There are two reservoirs close by in Tibble Fork and Silverlake flat that are both beautiful," mentions a camper who visited in July.
Winter camping: Experienced winter campers can access Spruces Campground during snowy months via snowshoe. "Wonderful winter wonder land you can snowshoe into in the winter and camp at! You can also stay here during the summer just be prepared to book a couple months in advance," advises a winter visitor.
What campers like
Urban convenience: The Salt Lake City KOA provides campers with urban amenities while remaining close to outdoor recreation. "If you are traveling in an RV and wish to stay parked, there is public transit to city-center and amenities a couple blocks away," shares one reviewer who appreciated the transportation options.
Canyon camping with water features: Little Mill Campground receives praise for its creek access. "Just returned from an overnight stay at Little Mill with amazing American Fork Creek right beside my sites. The campground is clean, no water, trash or electric and vault toilets," reports a camper who enjoyed the riverside location.
Lower density options: For those seeking less crowded alternatives, Willow Park Campground in Lehi offers riverside camping with fewer neighbors during weekdays. "Spent only one night but had the whole Campground to ourselves. Nice big level spot with fire pit and separate upright grill," notes a mid-week visitor.
What you should know
Road noise impacts: Many campgrounds near West Jordan experience traffic sounds due to canyon acoustics or highway proximity. At Little Mill Campground, one camper reported, "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."
Reservation requirements: Most canyon sites fill months in advance, especially for weekends. "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," warns a Granite Flat visitor.
Altitude considerations: Canyon campgrounds sit at higher elevations, resulting in colder nights even in summer. Pack appropriate gear for temperatures that can drop below 40°F overnight in mountain locations, even during July and August.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and open spaces: Pony Express RV Resort provides family-friendly facilities including a playground and recreational areas. "Really nice RV resort near Interstate. Pull throughs or back in on paved level sites. Nice bathhouses with private shower/toilets. Great play area. Bikes available including kid sized. Paved 80 mile bike trail along Jordan River."
Scout-friendly locations: Several local campgrounds accommodate scout troops with space for activities. At Willow Park Campground, one scout leader reported, "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."
Day trip options: When camping with families, consider base camping at lower elevations and making day trips to higher elevations for activities. This strategy allows easier adjustment to altitude changes while maintaining access to full facilities.
Tips from RVers
Big rig access: Canyon roads can present challenges for larger RVs. For those with larger rigs, look for sites with pull-through options like Pony Express RV Resort. One RVer noted the benefit of convenient repairs nearby: "There is a plant nearby so it kind of smells. And there's a decent amount of road noise since it's in town. It also backs up to an RV sales and service place which I think is pretty convenient!"
Budget options: For cost-conscious RVers, consider the campground at Great Salt Lake State Park which offers water and electric hookups at more affordable rates than private parks. "Small RV park at state park with marina right on Great Salt Lake," reports one visitor who enjoyed the lakeside location.
Winter access: Most canyon campgrounds close during winter months. For year-round RV camping, urban locations like Salt Lake City KOA remain open with full hookups. "Great spot to plug in at night between ski days," notes a winter visitor who appreciated the amenities during ski season.
