Central Utah's diverse camping landscape offers overnight accommodations near Salina at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 feet. The region features a semi-arid climate with significant temperature variations between summer days (often reaching 90°F) and nights (dropping to 50°F). Winter camping remains available at select locations with temperatures frequently below freezing from November through March.
What to Do
Explore ancient petroglyphs: Visit Fremont Indian State Park's extensive collection of Native American rock art. "The campground is really nice and just a few miles off of I-70 and about 6 miles east of I-15. There is a nice trail out of the south end of the campground that follows a stream," notes Troy L. from Sam Stowe Campground.
Soak in natural mineral waters: The hot springs at Monroe offer year-round soaking opportunities. One camper explains, "I've been here in the summer and winter. Stayed in one of their buses and camped. Both times have been fun experiences. The camping here isn't for everyone, but if you read up ahead of time, you won't be disappointed," according to Sarah S. from Mystic Hot Springs.
Lake activities without motorboats: Enjoy peaceful kayaking at Palisade State Park where power boats are prohibited. "This is a great place to go kayaking (no power boats allowed). There are great atv trails nearby. There is a great golf course right next to the lake/campground," shares Karin W.
What Campers Like
Dark sky viewing: The region offers excellent stargazing opportunities away from light pollution. "The night sky was magnificent and may have made up for our inability to shower for a couple days. We were the only ones in the park, Winter camping. It's located in a dark sky area, so the skies are clear and the air is clean," reports Carlyne F. from Sand Creek RV.
Unique accommodations: Beyond traditional camping, the area offers distinct lodging options. "This place is hilarious. The pools are awesome, and the retro busses outfitted as campers are rustic. It has showers, bathrooms, and a gift shop. It has a stage on site where there are impromptu bands and yoga classes that take place," explains Hayley K.
Peaceful off-season camping: Winter camping provides solitude at many locations. "We stayed here twice. We enjoy the covered table area for hanging hammocks, which you can't do on the Oasis side. There is a small beach area by the boat launch, or a 20 minute drive will get you to North Beach," notes Ashley R. from Yuba State Park.
What You Should Know
Per-person pricing structure: Some campgrounds charge by camper rather than by site. "The camping is funky but functional. And overpriced. You pay per person not per vehicle," explains YLVA M. about Mystic Hot Springs.
Seasonal facility closures: Many campgrounds reduce services in winter. "They're still open in the Winter, but we didn't find out they closed their showers and bathrooms until we were told upon arrival. (They close 10/31)," reports a camper at Sand Creek RV.
Water level fluctuations: Reservoir levels can vary significantly. "The water was really low. We don't own a boat, so we were shore bound. Lots of rocks and trash on the shores and the sand was like quick sand along the water," shares Venessa C. from Joes Valley Reservoir.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for educational opportunities: Several parks offer cultural learning experiences. "Got to stay in a rad tipi site for only $30! They had firewood available by the bundle for $5/armload. Tent sites are $15 and extra cars are $10. It's about a mile from the Fremont Indian State Park," reports Mariah G. from Castle Rock Campground.
Find shade during summer: The region gets hot and exposed. "Tent sites are small. Depending on the site, you will have to put your tent on the gravel spots for cars. Not lots of shade, but some juniper trees," explains Scott O. from Sunglow Campground.
Choose sites with explorer-friendly terrain: Several campgrounds feature climbing opportunities for children. "Primitive camping with nice tables, and bathrooms, and fire pits. They have a big group site that can be reserved and it will hold lots of people. Lots of fun hikes close by. Lots of fun hills for the kids to climb," notes Brad B.
Tips from RVers
Consider overnight stays between destinations: The area serves as a convenient stopover. "Really quiet, convenient and quite pretty place to stop overnight. We stayed in site 33 which was great because we didn't have to unhook our tow vehicle and you have no one looking in your front windshield," suggests Victoria C. from Fillmore KOA.
Book yurt camping near Salina, Utah in advance: Yurt and specialty accommodations fill quickly, especially at parks like Sand Creek that offer these unique stays. "There are spots for rigs of all sizes, and some with electric hook ups, some without. Wifi included, pay laundry," notes Danielle.
Prepare for wind exposure: Many sites lack natural windbreaks. "There are wooden shelters for tent spots to mitigate the wind but this would still make me nervous if I were in a tent!" warns Kayleigh T. about yurt and tent camping options near Salina, Utah.
