Settlement Canyon Campground provides rustic tent and RV options near Rush Valley, Utah. Located 24 miles northwest of Rush Valley in Tooele, this established campground sits at approximately 6,000 feet elevation with temperatures averaging 10-15 degrees cooler than the valley floor. The canyon setting creates varying conditions throughout the camping season, with late spring bringing wildflowers and early fall offering colorful foliage displays against mountain backdrops.
What to do
Explore mountain trails: Several hiking paths branch from Settlement Canyon campground, connecting to longer routes with valley views. "Great areas for hiking and is really close to the reservoir for some awesome fishing. Would definitely come back," notes Carlee G., highlighting the combined recreation options.
Watch paragliding launches: The Flight Park State Recreation Area offers a unique opportunity to observe paragliders taking off from nearby launch points. "When we woke up there were paragliders ready to glide. Which was cool," reports Santiago V., describing an unexpected benefit of camping at this location.
Paddle mountain reservoirs: Several water bodies near Rush Valley support paddling activities without motorized craft restrictions. "The water was cool and there were tons of people there with paddle boards, canoos, tents, and dogs," explains Ash S. about activities at Granite Flat, noting the popularity of water recreation even at higher elevations.
What campers like
River camping spots: Streamside sites provide natural white noise and cooler temperatures. "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," shares Kaitlin R. about her stay at Granite Flat.
Good site spacing: Many campers appreciate adequate distance between sites at certain campgrounds. "The campsites are pretty close together so if you prefer solitude consider backpacking to White or Red Pine Lake or Lake Blanche in the nearby Big Cottonwood Canyon north of here," advises Alan B. about Tanners Flat, providing context about spacing expectations.
Fall camping season: September and October offer different advantages for glamping close to Rush Valley. "September/early October gives cooler temperatures and less crowds, and we got to see some lovely fall colors," notes Sara M., explaining why her family now makes Tanners Flat their yearly fall tradition.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Some campgrounds require bringing your own water supply. "I have a small SUV, so I buy firewood and fill up water containers after I've set up camp. I usually expect a decent drive to find what I need, but this involved a very long drive down a rutted gravel road, out of the canyon, and back to Grantsville. I think it was 40 minutes each way," warns Naomi W. from her experience at Loop Campground.
Wind conditions: Some camping areas experience significant wind, particularly in exposed locations. "Very windy—20-30mph winds nearly everyday. That's why it's popular for hang gliding. Unless you're coming here to fly then it's a terrible spot!" cautions David S. about Flight Park State Recreation Area.
Reservation timing: Popular glamping sites fill quickly during peak season. "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," advises Ash S., emphasizing the importance of planning ahead.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specific features for children. "There is a huge spot of grass that you can play sports or baseball on. Can't remember the site we had but there was a huge rock that was fun for the scouts to climb on," describes Brad B. about his experience at Little Mill.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning animal sightings create memorable experiences. "We stayed one night but it was a blast! Had some great areas for hiking and is really close to the reservoir for some awesome fishing," recalls Carlee G. about Settlement Canyon.
Playground access: Certain camping locations include designated play areas. "The playground is clean, a good sized one, but overrun with unsupervised kids," notes Amy about her stay at Pony Express RV Resort, providing both a positive facility review and practical warning.
Tips from RVers
Tent pad quality: Some sites have challenging terrain for tent setup. "The one downside was that the tent spot was not flat, and had quite a few large rocks. Otherwise, it was great," reports Justin J. about Granite Flat campground, information particularly valuable for RVers considering tent options.
Evening restrictions: Gate closure times can impact late arrivals. "Make sure you get camped and in because they lock the gate coming into campground at 11PM and you have to hike in," advises Brad B. about Little Mill campground, highlighting an important logistical consideration.
Hookup variations: Water and electric connections differ significantly between Rush Valley area campgrounds. "Flat, level parking spots - many pull-throughs" are available at some locations, according to Brian C., noting the convenience factors at Pony Express RV Resort.
