Antelope Island State Park, located 41 miles from North Salt Lake, sits at an elevation of 4,200 feet and offers a distinctive camping experience with limited tree cover and exposure to Great Salt Lake winds. Campgrounds feature vault toilets and designated sites for both standard camping and equestrian use. The island terrain creates unique environmental conditions with seasonal considerations affecting camping comfort throughout the year.
What to Do
Wildlife viewing excursions: At Bridger Bay Campground, visitors frequently encounter wildlife in close proximity to camping areas. "We saw bison and antelope driving in the park," notes James B., who appreciated the natural encounters during his stay. The campground provides an accessible base for wildlife observation throughout the island.
Hiking trail access: The Silver Lake Backcountry area connects to multiple trail systems with varying difficulty levels. "There is a short waterfall hike, but also a long hike that will take you up to Ben Lomond Peak & cut across to Willard Peak," reports Morgan L. These trails offer spring and early summer viewing opportunities with fewer insects than summer months.
Water recreation: Several reservoirs near camping areas permit non-motorized watercraft. "We spent our afternoons paddleboarding on Silver Lake Reservoir," shares Michelle B., who visited the area with her family. The waters around Antelope Island and neighboring recreation areas provide alternatives to the often-brackish Great Salt Lake.
What Campers Like
Spacious campsite layout: The North Fork County Park receives consistent praise for its site configuration. "Each of the sites seem to have plenty of space for any time of camping you do, and are well tended in between seasons and visitors. And even with the ample size of each site, you don't feel like you're in your neighbor's lap," explains Dave D., a long-time visitor to the area.
Sunset viewing locations: The western exposure of many campsites provides exceptional evening views. "This place had the most amazing sunset. It was cool to drive around and see the wildlife," reports Adam G. about his experience at Bridger Bay Campground. The reflective quality of the Great Salt Lake intensifies sunset colors.
Relative solitude: Despite proximity to urban areas, several campgrounds maintain a secluded atmosphere. "If you are looking for solitude without backpacking into the mountains the primitive loop at Bridger Bay campground could be your thing," suggests Kim G., highlighting the balance between accessibility and isolation.
What You Should Know
Seasonal insect conditions: Biting insects present significant challenges during certain months. "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 [go] for a walk without getting swarmed by them and bitten. Best to visit in the autumn when the flys have gone," advises Georgia L. about her experience at White Rock Bay Campground.
Weather variability: Strong winds affect camping conditions year-round. "We were in a tent and the wind shook our tent back and forth all night. No sleep. But the views getting out of the tent in the morning were incredible," reports Caroline N., emphasizing the trade-offs at White Rock Bay Campground.
Water availability limitations: Several campgrounds operate with restricted water access. "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," notes one camper who visited in 2025. Always check current water status before arrival.
Tips for Camping with Families
Creek access for children: Willow Park Campground offers water features suitable for young visitors. "We were able to get a spot next to the Jordan River under a beautiful tree. We brought our 16ft camper and didn't need to back it in or anything," shares Alex L., adding that "a family of ducks that visited the next morning" provided additional entertainment for children.
Campground amenities for groups: North Fork County Park accommodates larger family gatherings. "Our family has our anual family reunion in Mustang Flats every summer, CW8 & CW9 are great for 5 families because they're connected by a little road," recommends Fale L., noting the configuration benefits for multi-family camping.
Off-season timing: For families sensitive to environmental conditions, consider visiting during cooler months. "We traveled to Utah from California for our annual Christmas camping adventure. This was our first spot, and it was a wonderful place to start. We don't have to worry about the bugs, being it's December," explains Susan R. about winter camping at Bridger Bay.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Timpooneke Campground offers basic amenities without full hookups. "High elevation(7400ft) campground up the popular Alpine Loop. Book EARLY- its very popular," advises Andrea P., noting the competitive reservation system for this mountain location.
Access road considerations: Several campgrounds require navigating unpaved roads. "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!!" warns Bethany R. about Kimball Campground, highlighting the importance of vehicle capability assessment before arrival.
Equestrian-specific requirements: Horseback riding options near North Salt Lake require advance planning. The equestrian sites at White Rock Bay accommodate horse trailers with designated parking areas but lack natural shade for livestock. Water must be transported for horses as no drinking water is available at equestrian-designated sites.
