Settlement Canyon offers traditional camping with drive-in and walk-in access approximately 2 miles from downtown Tooele. The campground sits at an elevation of 5,800 feet in the Oquirrh Mountains, providing a nearby escape with seasonal temperature variations. Sites accommodate both tents and RVs with varying levels of amenities and no internet service, making it a convenient unplugged option for locals seeking nature without traveling far.
What to do
Hiking at Deseret Peak: For experienced hikers visiting Loop Campground, the 7-mile one-way trail to Deseret Peak rewards with panoramic views. "You can see all the way to the northern end of the lake as well as beyond the Bonneville Salt Flats into Nevada," notes Alan B., who recommends using this campground as "a basecamp to climb the high peaks that surround the terminus of the South Willow Canyon road."
Fishing in Settlement Canyon: Settlement Canyon provides easy access to fishing opportunities within walking distance of campsites. Carlee G. mentions, "Had some great areas for hiking and is really close to the reservoir for some awesome fishing." The reservoir is particularly popular during summer months when fish are most active.
Paragliding observation: Flight Park State Recreation Area offers a unique opportunity to observe paragliders launching. While camping, you can watch the activity throughout the day as wind conditions at this higher elevation create ideal flying conditions. "We camped on a Friday night and it was full when we arrived around 6pm... Otherwise I would have camped down the road in a dirt patch anyway," shares Sary W. about the popularity of this viewpoint.
What campers like
Mountain wildlife encounters: Multiple campgrounds near Tooele feature wildlife viewing opportunities. At Settlement Canyon/Legion Park Campground, Carlee G. reports, "We woke up to see cows in the morning which the kids loved." Other campers regularly spot deer and smaller animals throughout the canyon areas.
River access: Campsites along waterways provide both scenic views and recreational opportunities. At Little Mill Campground, visitors appreciate the sound and proximity of American Fork Creek. Myrna G. mentions, "Just returned from an overnight stay at Little Mill with amazing American Fork Creek right beside my sites. The campground is clean, no water, trash or electric and vault toilets."
Fall colors: The mountain settings around Tooele transform dramatically in autumn. Campers at Utah Lake State Park Campground mention enjoying the cottonwood trees, while multiple canyon locations showcase seasonal transformation. The elevation changes provide extended fall color viewing opportunities as lower elevations change later than higher locations.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most canyon campgrounds have spotty or nonexistent cell coverage. At Pony Express RV Resort, Janet H. notes that while they offer "Wifi and cable," many other locations have minimal connectivity. Warren W. mentions at Settlement Canyon, "there is no cell service at all unless you're up near the gate."
Water availability varies: Many campgrounds have seasonal water restrictions. Little Mill Campground offers no water hookups, with Myrna G. confirming it has "no water, trash or electric and vault toilets." Always check current conditions before arrival as some locations shut off water without notice during drought conditions.
Mosquito preparations: Utah Lake State Park Campground in particular requires insect preparation. Lindsay J. warns, "There are however a lot of bugs. Especially mosquitoes. Bring bug spray!" Another camper describes them as "ginormous" and notes "You can literally watch them raise from the ground ready to attack."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for noise considerations: Family groups should consider noise factors when booking. At Settlement Canyon, Warren W. explains, "We brought a whole bunch of teenage girls for my daughter's birthday party and they were able to be loud and did not disturb anybody. The dry camping spots are very spacious lots of space for the walk around and play and run."
Kid-friendly playgrounds: Granite Flat Campground offers dedicated play areas for children. Brad B. notes, "There is a huge spot of grass that you can play sports or baseball on. Really nice spots with lots of trees and shade." This provides entertainment options beyond hiking and water activities.
Proximity to attractions: Family-friendly locations like Utah Lake beaches or Timpanogos Cave make for easy day trips. Monica B. recommends Little Mill for being "close to Timpanogos cave..and sliding rock" as well as "close to tribble fork and silver lakes," providing multiple activity options within short driving distance.
Tips from RVers
Limited privacy at developed sites: RV sites at most developed campgrounds offer convenience but limited separation. At Pony Express RV Resort, Cole A. advises, "if you want space to spread out this is not the place for you." The campground features "level concrete pads" but feels like a "subdivision desperate house wife's camping addition."
Hookup availability: Most canyon locations lack full hookups, requiring self-contained units. Kim T. recommends Settlement Canyon as a "Great location to camp for touring Salt Lake City. Full hook-ups at a reasonable price. Sites are tight and busy on the weekends."
Early reservations essential: Sites with RV accommodations book quickly during peak season. For glamping close to Tooele, Utah, reservations should be made months in advance. Ash S. cautions about Granite Flat Campground, "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."
