Taylorsville sits at approximately 4,300 feet elevation in the Salt Lake Valley, with camping options ranging from dispersed mountain sites to valley-based facilities. The region experiences wide temperature swings between summer and winter, with camping areas at higher elevations in surrounding mountains reaching 8,000-10,000 feet. Lower valley campgrounds remain accessible most of the year while mountain sites have strict seasonal limitations.
What to do
Snowshoe adventures: During winter months when most mountain campgrounds close, Spruces Campground in Big Cottonwood Canyon transforms into a winter recreation area. "Wonderful winter wonder land you can snowshoe into in the winter and camp at! You can also stay here during the summer just be prepared to book a couple months in advance," notes Shilah M. about Spruces - Big Cottonwood.
Paddle sports at reservoirs: The American Fork Canyon area offers multiple non-motorized water recreation opportunities near camping areas. "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. We were right next to a beautiful river and it was pretty quiet," writes Kaitlin R. about her experience at Granite Flat.
Urban biking: For campers staying at valley locations, extensive paved trails connect to camping areas. "Paved 80 mile bike trail along Jordan River. Giant chessboard. Nice pool area," reports Janet H. about amenities at Pony Express RV Resort. Willow Park Campground provides direct river access with "boat launch for non-motorized water crafts, bathrooms, and playgrounds."
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Higher-elevation campgrounds offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities not found in valley locations. "In addition to numerous deer, we had two moose munching away at the willow at the adjacent site," shares Outdoor T. about their stay at Redman Campground. The area hosts deer, moose, and smaller wildlife particularly in Big Cottonwood Canyon.
Mountain stream access: Campers frequently mention the calming sounds of nearby water features as a highlight. "I just recently stayed at the Spruces. Loved it. Very peaceful. I stayed in campground #47. Right near the end of the loop before it goes into the peaceful forest section. Great one. Right by water," reports Tom B. Millcreek Canyon offers similar experiences with "areas of the river" where families can tube and play.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds near Taylorsville maintain high cleanliness standards even during peak season. "The campground is clean, the bathrooms are exceptionally clean with flushing toilets, you are a walk or hike away from Brighton and immersed in some of the most beautiful mountains around," notes Kristin H. about her experience at Redman Campground.
What you should know
Strict reservation timelines: The most popular camping destinations around Taylorsville fill months in advance. "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 Ash S. about Granite Flat.
Pet restrictions: Canyon camping areas have varying rules for pets due to watershed regulations. "We had planned to camp here but dogs are not allowed. This campground looked like an awesome spot. Location is right off the hwy close to Solitude and trails," notes Natalie B. about Redman Campground. Millcreek Canyon is one of the few that explicitly permits dogs on trails.
Site size limitations: Some campgrounds have physical constraints that limit RV sizes. "This campground is quiet and has abundant wildlife. It's better for small campers or tent campers as the driveways were not designed for big rigs," explains a reviewer about Redman Campground. Verify site dimensions before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer built-in activities for children beyond hiking trails. "There is a huge spot of grass that you can play sports or baseball on. Can't remember the site we had but there was a huge rock that was fun for the scouts to climb on," explains Brad B. about Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping.
Proximity to attractions: When choosing family-friendly camping near Taylorsville, consider locations near attractions. "This is really close to some really good hikes like Stewart Falls, and Tibble Fork reservoir just minutes for your camp site," shares Brad B. about Granite Flat. Little Mill Campground offers "access to Timpanogas Cave trailhead" nearby.
Year-round options: For families wanting to introduce children to winter camping, specific areas remain accessible. "We camped in campground #47. Right by water but gets a heck of a lot of sun in the morning," mentions Tom B. regarding Spruces, which also offers "snowshoe in in the winter" opportunities for more adventurous families with older children.
Tips from RVers
Urban RV parking: RV campers seeking full amenities have limited but solid options near Taylorsville. "Really nice RV resort near Interstate. Pull throughs or back in on paved level sites. Picnic table. FHU. Sites typically close with grass area separating. No shade or privacy. Narrow interior roads," reports Janet H. about Pony Express RV Resort, which features "nice bathhouses with private shower/toilets."
Site selection strategy: Experienced RVers recommend careful site selection based on rig size and needs. "We have a small 21' travel trailer and the pull through spots are perfect! Both my neighbors are permanent residents," notes Amy about Pony Express RV Resort, highlighting that urban RV parks often mix short-term visitors with long-term residents.
Off-season advantages: RV camping during shoulder seasons offers better availability. "Good place to plug in at night between ski days. Friendly helpful staff," explains Terry G. about Salt Lake City KOA, one of the few year-round options that remains open during winter for RVers.
