Camping sites near Cottonwood Heights, Utah expand beyond the main canyon campgrounds into surrounding wilderness areas. The region sits at elevations ranging from 4,300 to over 11,000 feet, creating distinct microclimates and camping experiences from spring through fall. Water access varies dramatically between sites, with some locations requiring campers to pack in all water needs while others offer reliable creekside camping options.
What to do
Hiking from camp: At Granite Flat campground, visitors can access multiple recreation areas. "This campsite was near Tibble Fork which is somewhere I have been wanting to go and explore for a long time. 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," reports Kaitlin R.
Snowshoeing to winter camps: Winter campers can access certain areas despite seasonal closures. At Spruces campground, "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.
Alpine lake fishing: Multiple backcountry lakes hold populations of trout. When camping at Red Pine Lake, visitors need to hike in their gear. "Both lakes were loaded with large trout, but I didn't have a fishing rod, so all I could do was look at them this time. I did see signs of an old campfire and some trout bones so someone had a tasty meal at one point," reports Justin C.
What campers like
Proximity to urban amenities: The location of Salt Lake City KOA offers convenience for those needing supplies. "If you are traveling in an RV and wish to stay parked, there is public transit to city-center and amenities a couple blocks away. I assume it's within most private ride-share service areas as well," writes TMB.
Creekside sites: Water features add natural sound barriers between campsites. At Little Mill campground, one camper noted, "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers frequently report animal sightings. "Very nice campground with water running in multiple places, clean multiple bathrooms and incredible wildlife coming right into your site. In Addison to numerous deer, we had two moose munching away at the willow at the adjacent site," reports Outdoor T. about Redman Campground.
What you should know
Reservation essentials: Many campgrounds fill months in advance. "Be aware of your travel plans and book early because the campground fills fast," notes Andy M. about Spruces campground.
Watershed restrictions: Water source protection affects camping rules. At Redman Campground, "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," explains Natalie B.
Urban noise factors: Campsites closer to Salt Lake City experience more noise. "Be warned, if is NOT quiet - there are multiple trains/sirens/large semis blowing by all night. It was about $75 for a single night, but our original spot fell through and they were able to accommodate us last minute," writes North Idaho N. about Salt Lake City KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Scout-friendly sites: Some campgrounds specifically accommodate youth groups. "I took the scouts up to this spot and it is a great place to camp with lots of room. Make sure you get camped and in because they lock the gate coming into campground at 11PM and you have to hike in. Really nice campsites with really nice bathrooms and picnic tables," reports Brad B. about Granite Flat.
Playground access: Certain campgrounds provide built-in entertainment. At Willow Park, "This is a great place to camp within the city of Lehi. It is close to the water and in the hot summer it is a fun spot for a night get away. Big camp sites for trailers or tents and nice bathrooms," notes Brad B.
School night camping: Local options allow for quick overnight trips. "Right up Big Cottonwood Canyon, this campground has the advantage of being up the canyon so you feel far away from the city, but close enough that you could go on a work night and still make it to the office the next day," writes Jenny W. about Spruces campground.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Many canyon campgrounds have variable terrain. "We stayed in HS site 100. Absolutely beautiful view and great access to park city. Showers were clean. Only downside was the dump station near us was pretty awful smells and the site was very unlevel," notes Scott B. about Jordanelle State Park.
High water pressure warnings: Some connections require pressure regulators. At Jordanelle State Park, Trevor S. warns, "Great campsite. Clean and nice amenities for a State Park. Be careful hooking up your RV to water. Very high pressure."
Overnight access considerations: Sites with gates require planning. "I took the scouts up to this spot and it is a great place to camp with lots of room. Make sure you get camped and in because they lock the gate coming into campground at 11PM and you have to hike in," advises Brad B. about Granite Flat campground.
