South Salt Lake, Utah provides access to camping options within a one-hour drive radius. Campsites range from 4,300 feet elevation near the city to alpine settings at 7,400 feet in nearby canyons. The camping season typically runs May through September in the higher elevations, with year-round access to lower sites.
What to do
Fishing access: Near Granite Flat Campground, campers can enjoy fishing at nearby small reservoirs. "It's clean. Has access to many fishing lakes and hiking trails!" shares Whitney J. The area doesn't permit motorized watercraft.
Mountain trails: Camping at Mount Timpanogos Campground puts you close to scenic trails. "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," notes Kaitlin R. about the nearby area.
Wildlife viewing: Antelope Island State Park offers unique wildlife encounters. "We saw fox that came right up to our tent and lots of bison close by," reports Whitney K. about her experience at White Rock Bay. The island provides opportunities to spot various animal species in their natural habitat.
What campers like
Alpine settings: Higher-elevation campgrounds like Silver Lake Backcountry offer a cooler summer retreat. "Only 40-50 minutes away from Provo, UT area so easy to get away for a quick day or two of camping. Lots of hikes to do nearby, beautiful views, and place to paddle board, kayak, etc.," mentions Bentz E.
River sounds: Many campsites feature stream access. "The river is right there and makes some beautiful yet subtle white noise. It is in provo canyon and the cliffs on either side are very impressive," notes Helen A. about Nunns Park.
Ease of booking: Some locations offer convenient reservation systems. "Our site was right by the entrance and near a stream bed that was dry. It was incredibly quiet, silent even, at night," reports Lauren about Mount Timpanogos Campground.
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: Horse campgrounds near South Salt Lake, Utah are scarce. While Timpooneke has horse-related sites, Andrea P. notes, "Equest sites can be used by people without horses too," indicating these areas aren't exclusively for equestrian use.
Early reservations required: Popular sites fill quickly. "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 Ash S. about Granite Flat.
Road conditions: Access to Kimball Campground requires appropriate vehicles. "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!!" advises Bethany R.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Willow Park Campground provides family-friendly facilities. "Has a playground, sand volleyball, boat launch as your near the Jordan River," mentions Myrna G. This makes it suitable for families seeking activities beyond hiking.
Spacious sites: Some campgrounds accommodate larger groups. "I took the scouts up to this spot and it is a great place to camp with lots of room. Make sure you get camped and in because they lock the gate coming into campground at 11PM," advises Brad B. about Granite Flat.
Bug protection: Insect repellent is essential at certain locations. "The landscape is beautiful but I cannot stress to you enough the amount of biting gnats there were. It was unbearable for us and bug spray didn't deter them one bit," warns Becca S. about White Rock Bay.
Tips from RVers
Urban proximity: Mountain Shadows RV Park provides convenient city access. "Location very convenient to shopping and restaurants however. Rates reasonable and staff friendly," notes Char P., though she mentions, "Challenging back-in for our 30' ft travel trailer. Very cramped spot."
Hookup options: RV sites vary in amenities and cost. "Stopped here for one night after leaving family and before hitting the road. Full hookup site with Good Sam was going to be $75/night selected a partial hookup (water/electric) site instead for $45/night," explains Abner H. about Mountain Shadows.
Wind protection: Consider weather impacts when choosing sites. "The campground is small, and mostly RV residents. We stayed in one of a small handful of tent sites. Bathrooms are clean and there are two showers. It was very pretty... Until the wind hit. I have never encountered such winds!" warns Patience C. about White Rock Bay.
