Camping opportunities near Salt Lake City range from alpine hideaways to lakeside retreats, with elevations spanning from 4,200 feet in the valley to over 7,400 feet in mountain campgrounds. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F at lower elevations while mountain sites remain 10-15 degrees cooler, making them popular retreats during peak season.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Mount Timpanogos Campground serves as a base camp for hikers with multiple trails nearby. As one visitor notes, "We came to hike Timp and stayed for a couple nights just as they were closing and this was the perfect spot under a mile from the trailhead." The campground sits at higher elevation, providing cooler temperatures during summer months.
Mountain biking routes: Granite Flat Campground connects to networks of trails suitable for both beginner and advanced riders. "Great small reservoirs nearby for fishing, or canoeing - no motor sports allowed," mentions a camper. The elevation at this campground (6,400 ft) means spring camping isn't possible until snow melts, typically by mid-May.
Wildlife viewing: Bridger Bay Campground on Antelope Island offers unique opportunities to observe free-roaming bison. "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," reports one visitor. The campground also provides access to ranch tours at Fielding Garr Ranch on the island.
Water activities: Non-motorized watercraft are permitted at several sites, with Silver Flat Reservoir standing out for paddleboarding and kayaking. As one camper described it: "We spent our afternoons paddleboarding on Silver Lake Reservoir." Water levels are typically highest in early summer following snowmelt.
What campers like
Mountain solitude: Mount Timpanogos Campground offers a quieter experience compared to busier valley sites. A visitor notes, "It was incredibly quiet, silent even, at night. Gorgeous but a little chilly." Sites are described as "spread out" with "lots of trees" providing shade and privacy from neighboring campers.
Family-friendly spaces: Willow Park Campground balances natural surroundings with convenient amenities. "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," shares a frequent visitor who takes scout troops to the location.
River access: Timpooneke campground visitors appreciate the proximity to water features. "Very large space. We fit a lot people there (only one tent) we were able to wake up and get on the trail and hike up to the glacier and camp," reports one camper. Most river-adjacent sites fill quickly during summer months.
Stargazing opportunities: Higher elevation campgrounds away from city lights offer exceptional night sky views. "Beautiful star gazing, great temps," reports one camper about White Rock Bay. The lack of light pollution at these more remote locations creates optimal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
What you should know
Horse-friendly options: While dedicated equestrian facilities are limited near Salt Lake City, Kimball Campground offers access to motor-friendly trails suitable for horses. "Most of the trails are motor friendly and the lake is a great spot for kayaking," mentions one visitor. BLM regulations require staying at least half a mile from water sources when camping with horses.
Weather considerations: Mountain campgrounds experience rapid temperature changes. "The elevation is about 6400 ft - so no spring camping. Book EARLY! This campsite is always full," warns a visitor about Granite Flat. Nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing even in summer months at higher elevations.
Vehicle requirements: Access to several campgrounds requires appropriate vehicles. For Kimball Campground, "The roads are really rough don't think you'll be able to do it without 4x4 or awd my Honda CR-V did great!" Many access roads become impassable after rain or early/late in the season.
Reservation systems: Most established campgrounds fill quickly during peak season (June-August). "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," cautions a Granite Flat visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible short hikes: Nunns Park offers family-friendly trails suitable for younger children. "The walk from the campsite to bridal falls is also lovely!" reports one visitor. The trail to Bridal Veil Falls is paved and less than a mile one-way, making it manageable for most ages.
Wildlife viewing precautions: When camping in bison territory, maintain safe distances. "The bison are free grazing all around and a few came right up to our campground in the early morning!" This requires supervision of children and proper food storage to avoid attracting wildlife.
Water safety: Several campgrounds sit adjacent to rivers or lakes with varying conditions. "Nobody in my family was willing to swim in the lake. Which is beautiful from a distance," notes one Bridger Bay visitor. Water in mountain streams remains extremely cold even during summer months.
Insect protection: Certain locations experience seasonal insect problems. "Lovely scenery, water is currently off so no showers but has a clean pit toilet. Only downside was the no see um flys you can't for a walk without getting swarmed by them and bitten. Best to visit in the autumn when the flys have gone," advises a White Rock Bay camper.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many mountain campgrounds cannot accommodate larger RVs. "Sites are small and primarily tent sites. There are a couple sites which would accommodate a small 16 ft trailer," notes a Mount Timpanogos visitor. Check individual campground specifications before planning travel with larger units.
Hook-up availability: Most national forest and BLM campgrounds lack full amenities. For those requiring services, "Stopped here for a scenic spot to relax for the day and overnight. Nice level asphalt spots. Beautiful view of the lake," reports a visitor to Bridger Bay, which offers electrical hookups.
Off-season considerations: Some campgrounds close facilities during shoulder seasons. "At the time of our visit, the park was rebuilding its visitor center. This meant there is currently no running water so no toilets other than pit and no showers." Always verify operating schedules and available amenities before travel.
