Camping in Murray, Utah provides access to both mountain canyon sites and urban-adjacent facilities. The Wasatch Range creates a dramatic elevation shift from Murray's 4,300 feet to nearby camping options at 8,700+ feet, leading to temperature differences of 15-20 degrees between valley and mountain campsites. Upper canyon campgrounds typically operate from late May through mid-October with primitive facilities, while RV parks in the valley maintain year-round operations with full hookups.
What to do
Hiking from camp: At Granite Flat, campers can access numerous trails including routes to Stewart Falls. "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," mentions Kaitlin R. The campground's proximity to Tibble Fork Reservoir provides additional recreation options.
Fishing opportunities: Jordanelle State Park provides reliable fishing just 30 minutes from Murray. "Fun for the whole family; kids, seniors, pets, etc! The fishing is really good too. We catch something every time we go," reports Derek E. The reservoir supports rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, and perch populations.
Winter camping adventures: Despite seasonal closures at many campgrounds, Spruces Campground offers winter backcountry camping options. "Wonderful winter wonder land you can snowshoe into in the winter and camp at!" shares Shilah M. Winter camping requires appropriate cold-weather gear and awareness of avalanche conditions.
What campers like
Proximity to Salt Lake City: Salt Lake City KOA offers convenient access to urban amenities while maintaining campground features. "We have stayed here several times when visiting family in SLC. Facilities are clean and the staff is nice," notes Kristi R. The location provides a practical base camp for exploring the city.
Wildlife viewing: Redman Campground in Big Cottonwood Canyon offers frequent wildlife encounters. "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," states one camper. Another mentions, "Very nice campground with water running in multiple places, clean multiple bathrooms and incredible wildlife coming right into your site."
Streamside sites: Little Mill Campground features numerous sites adjacent to American Fork Creek. "Just returned from an overnight stay at Little Mill with amazing American Fork Creek right beside my sites," writes Myrna G. The sound of flowing water masks road noise at many sites and provides natural cooling during summer months.
What you should know
Campground access limitations: Some areas have restricted entry times or seasonal closures. At Little Mill, "Make sure you get camped and in because they lock the gate coming into campground at 11PM and you have to hike in," warns Brad B. Similarly, Millcreek Canyon has periodic road closures and restricted camping seasons.
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: While some campgrounds offer flush toilets, others provide only basic facilities. The Spruces Campground recently experienced facility issues, with one reviewer noting: "We drove up and found the restrooms were closed and porta potties installed. It is beautiful up there, but the campground is not being taken care of."
Reservation requirements: Most popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. For Granite Flat, one camper advised: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly spaces: Tanners Flat provides good options for family camping, especially in double sites. "I booked a double site here for the first time, and they are beautiful. I enjoyed the location, the space, and my whole family did as well!" shares Heather K. The campground includes clean bathrooms with flushing toilets.
Budget considerations: Entry fees apply at many sites beyond camping costs. At Jordanelle State Park, one camper notes, "Be ready to pay the state park fee too!" State parks typically charge $10-15 daily entrance fees per vehicle in addition to camping fees ranging from $20-40 per night.
Pet restrictions: Several canyon campgrounds prohibit dogs entirely due to watershed regulations. "We had planned to camp here but dogs are not allowed. This campground looked like an awesome spot," explains Natalie B. about Redman Campground. Similar restrictions apply at Tanners Flat where "NO Dogs allowed in the canyon—it is a watershed."
Tips from RVers
Level sites: At Pony Express RV Resort, campers appreciate the practical design. "Pull throughs or back in on paved level sites. Picnic table. FHU. Sites typically close with grass area separating," notes Janet H. The resort includes narrow interior roads requiring careful navigation for larger rigs.
Urban noise factors: City-adjacent RV parks experience consistent noise issues. "Convenient location right off the highway with full hook ups and nice paved sites," reports Cheriana G., but others note the proximity to traffic. Another camper states, "You are in the city so that comes with its own atmosphere but we never felt unsafe."
Winter RV options: RV parks in the valley maintain year-round operations when mountain sites close. One visitor to Salt Lake City KOA noted it's a "Good place to plug in at night between ski days." Winter RV camping requires preparation for freezing temperatures and potential road conditions when traveling to ski areas.
