Salt Lake City camping options range from developed campgrounds to primitive backcountry sites. Elevations vary from 4,300 feet near the Great Salt Lake to over 9,000 feet in nearby mountain canyons. Temperature swings can be extreme, with summer days reaching 100°F while mountain nights drop to the 40s even in July.
What to do
Evening campfires: Great Salt Lake State Park Campground offers prime locations for sunset campfires. "We stayed here for a night in August and it was just a magical evening - from watching the buffalo herds in the distance, to taking a dip in the Great Salt Lake, to the vibrant sunset and then a wild lightning storm," reports Angela C.
Fishing opportunities: Hailstone - Upper Fisher Campground at Jordanelle State Park provides excellent fishing access. "The fishing is really good too. We catch something every time we go," notes Derek E. The fully paved area makes for easy access regardless of weather conditions.
Trail exploration: Mountain bikers and hikers can access extensive trail networks from dispersed camping areas. "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," explains Sean H.
What campers like
Urban accessibility: Salt Lake City KOA offers convenient city access while maintaining campground amenities. "The staff here are awesome. And the camp has a lot to offer!" shares Alexandra C. Many campers appreciate its strategic location for exploring the city.
Wildlife viewing: Bridger Bay Campground at Antelope Island State Park provides unique wildlife encounters. "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," says John C., highlighting the rare opportunity to see bison up close.
Family activities: Campgrounds near recreation areas provide additional entertainment. "Solid KOA campground with all the amenities you would expect including a pool and spa," notes Daniel C. about Lagoon RV Park's proximity to the amusement park.
What you should know
Urban noise levels: City-adjacent campgrounds come with urban soundscapes. "There are multiple trains/sirens/large semis blowing by all night," reports North Idaho N. about Salt Lake City KOA, though they still rated it highly for its amenities.
Variable facilities: Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping requires preparation for primitive conditions. "You can backpack in and camp anywhere a 1/2 mile from any road like the other nearby canyons," explains Alan B., noting the backcountry experience differs significantly from developed campgrounds.
Weather preparedness: Mountain campgrounds experience significant temperature variations. "We stayed one night to rest up, but it did the job!" shares Lauren S. about camping near Salt Lake City during changeable weather conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Pony Express RV Resort features excellent recreation areas for children. "Nice play area. Bikes available including kid sized. Paved 80 mile bike trail along Jordan River. Giant chessboard," details Janet H., highlighting the family-friendly amenities.
Water activities: Several campgrounds offer water recreation opportunities. "We were able to paddle board which was a blast! I loves being so close and having access to so many beautiful hikes and Rock climbing," shares Kaitlin R. about camping near Tibble Fork Reservoir.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing provides learning experiences. "Gorgeous island in the middle of the Great Salt Lake. The bison are free grazing all around and a few came right up to our campground in the early morning!" Steven M. recounts from Antelope Island.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: RV sites with complete services are available at multiple dog friendly campgrounds near Salt Lake City. "Pull throughs or back in on paved level sites. Picnic table. FHU. Sites typically close with grass area separating," notes Janet H. about Pony Express RV Resort.
Site leveling: Check campground reviews for site grading information. "Only downside was the dump station near us was pretty awful smells and the site was very unlevel," reports Scott B. about a Jordanelle State Park campsite.
City access with amenities: Bountiful B Dispersed camping provides free options with reasonable access to urban areas. "Some awesome flat areas with a creek if you go in spring. Nice and quiet. Nearby shooting range," notes Taylor R., highlighting this pet-friendly camping option near Salt Lake City.
