Dispersed camping options near Tooele provide access to the Stansbury and Oquirrh Mountain ranges, with elevations ranging from 4,300 to over 10,000 feet. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F, while winter camping offers solitude but requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing. Most sites sit on BLM land with varying levels of development depending on proximity to established recreation areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Grantsville Reservoir, campers can access stocked trout from spring through fall. "The reservoir is stocked with trout almost 1 a month during the spring though fall. The reservoir is also completely man made so you get the feeling that you're in a bowl within a bowl!" notes Alan B.
Wildlife viewing: Bridger Bay Campground offers unique wildlife encounters. "Saw bison and antelope driving in the park," reports James B., while another camper describes how "They walk up and graze through the campsites which is a beautiful thing to wake up to."
Mountain biking: The trails accessible from Cottonwood Campground provide excellent riding opportunities. "Loved this place will definitely go back. Spacious and not too crowded. Lots of hiking spots!" mentions Becky J., highlighting the trail access directly from camp.
What campers like
Natural water features: Campers appreciate stream access at several sites. According to one visitor at Horseshoe Knoll, "My young son loved the nearby spring, it was very mushy but not horrible in some spots!" These water features provide cooling relief during summer months.
Spacious sites: Oquirrh Mountain Inn & RV Park offers room to spread out. "My wife and I stayed here for about 2 weeks place is pretty nice for an RV hookup spot full hookups water sewer 30 amp power," shares Zachary B., appreciating the well-designed spaces.
Night sky viewing: The area's minimal light pollution creates stellar stargazing conditions. One camper at Horseshoe Knoll Dispersed Camping mentions, "Beautiful landscape upon waking up!" while another notes the "fun place to hang out alone in the desert" with impressive views.
What you should know
Seasonal bug activity: Summer brings insect challenges at several campgrounds. A visitor to Bridger Bay reported, "But honeslty, it's hard to walk or bike because the bugs are so bad. I don't just mean the odd bite, I mean coated in biting gnats as soon as you go outside your vehicle."
Water availability: Many dispersed sites require bringing all water. "There is no running water at all unless you're up near the gate," notes Warren W. at Ophir Canyon Campground, emphasizing the need for preparation.
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires careful driving. "Road is rough coming in as well," warns Brittany N. about Horseshoe Knoll, while another review states "Some sites are very accessible, others need 4x4."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly wildlife viewing: Young campers enjoy animal sightings at several locations. Carlee G. shares, "We woke up to see cows in the morning which the kids loved," at Settlement Canyon, creating memorable experiences for children.
Temperature management: Summer heat requires planning for family comfort. The lack of shade at sites like Grantsville Reservoir makes afternoon activities challenging. Consider sites with creek access for cooling off during hot days.
Space for activities: Willow Park Campground offers recreational amenities for children. "Great trails, playground, river access, and lots of room to spread out!!" notes Jeremy H., making it suitable for family groups wanting organized play areas.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full service sites are limited but available. "RV camping is a must for me and full hookups are available. The price is very reasonable and anything you could ever need is easily accessible in Tooele right outside the gate," notes a camper at Settlement Canyon.
Site access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approaches. Jeremy I. observed, "The site itself had a bit of a steep access," at Settlement Canyon, while RVers at Horseshoe Knoll note that "probably only a couple good spots for an RV or tow-behind."
Alternative accommodations: When primitive sites are too rustic, Salt Lake City KOA offers reliable facilities. "Every space is paved and has plenty of shade. Cable, WiFi, and phone signals are good," shares Elaine S., though noting the $69 nightly rate during their stay.
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