Camping options near Taylorsville, Utah range from high elevation mountain sites to valley locations with urban access. The area features several canyon campgrounds at elevations between 6,000-7,400 feet, providing cooler summer temperatures and proximity to alpine recreation. Most mountain campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October due to snow closures, while valley locations remain accessible year-round.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls near camp: At Spruces Campground in Big Cottonwood Canyon, campers can access Donut Falls directly from the campground. "There are some great hikes not far from camp, Doughnut falls is very close and you are just a short drive from Silver Lake," notes Craig E., who has frequently spotted wildlife at the campground.
Mountain bike from your tent: American Fork Canyon provides camping with trail access. A camper at Granite Flat shared, "Clean site. Close proximity to the lake and hiking makes it a favorite spot." The campground sits near multiple reservoirs for fishing and paddling opportunities, with one visitor noting, "There are two reservoirs close by in Tibble Fork and Silverlake flat that are both beautiful."
Winter camping adventures: For cold weather enthusiasts, several campgrounds offer winter access. "Wonderful winter wonder land you can snowshoe into in the winter and camp at!" reports Shilah M. about Spruces Campground, where determined campers can access sites via snowshoe when roads are closed to vehicles.
What campers like
Accessible wilderness: Many sites offer nature experiences despite urban proximity. At Timpooneke, Michael J. appreciates that "this campground is well maintained and nestled into some nice pine trees in view of the backside of Mount Timpanogos," adding it's "special because it's such a short drive after work."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Animal sightings enhance camping experiences throughout the area. At Redman Campground, visitors report frequent wildlife encounters. "This campground is quiet and has abundant wildlife," writes one reviewer, while another mentions "two moose munching away at the willow at the adjacent site."
River-adjacent sites: Many campgrounds feature water access. One camper at Nunns Park appreciated that "the river is right there and makes some beautiful yet subtle white noise." Another noted, "It is in Provo canyon and the cliffs on either side are very impressive. The walk from the campsite to bridal falls is also lovely!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most popular sites book quickly, especially for summer weekends. A Granite Flat visitor warns, "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."
Watershed restrictions: Canyon areas have specific regulations due to watershed protection. Dogs are prohibited in certain locations, including Little Cottonwood Canyon. "We had planned to camp here but dogs are not allowed," reports a visitor to Redman Campground.
Weather variability: Mountain elevation creates significant temperature fluctuations. "It can get cold at night - high elevation," warns one camper at Timpooneke, situated at 7,400 feet elevation. Seasonal campgrounds typically open late May to mid-October depending on snowpack conditions.
No fires allowed in dispersed camping: At Flight Park State Recreation Area, campers must follow strict fire regulations. One visitor noted the area provides "mine, town, and mountain views" but cautions that fire restrictions apply to dispersed camping locations throughout the region.
Tips for camping with families
Spacious group sites: Families seeking room to spread out have dedicated options. At Settlement Canyon, one visitor reported, "The dry camping spots are very spacious lots of space for the walk around and play and run." Another camper mentioned, "We woke up to see cows in the morning which the kids loved."
Accessible fishing spots: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing access for all ages. A Little Mill camper shared, "Great relaxing family time, fishing on river close, close to tribble fork and silver lakes." Children can often fish directly from campgrounds or at nearby managed reservoirs.
Clean facilities: Family-friendly campgrounds maintain essential amenities. A Redman Campground visitor noted, "There are flush toilets and water spigots. We've used one of the group sites and a double site, and they are very roomy. The camp hosts have always been attentive, too."
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: When glamping near Taylorsville in an RV, consider site positioning. At Pony Express RV Resort, Nicole B. advises, "There are a lot of amenities, clean facilities, and concrete pads. The sites are pretty close together so if you like your space, this probably isn't the best place."
Urban convenience with nature access: RV camping provides proximity to both city amenities and nature. One visitor noted the Pony Express location offers "Easy access to the Jordan River Trail for running, biking, or sunset walks. You'll need to drive to get to restaurants, grocery stores, and ~20 min drive to downtown but overall not a bad spot to camp out for a few days."
Seasonal considerations: Mountain canyon RV sites typically have size limitations and seasonal closures. A Little Mill visitor advised, "In the summer call ahead because this area can be busy," while another noted the campground "runs parallel to the popular alpine loop road and the creek."
