Camping options around North Salt Lake range from developed RV parks to backcountry sites in nearby canyons. The area sits at the base of the Wasatch Mountains with elevations from 4,300 feet in the valley to over 9,000 feet in nearby mountains, creating diverse camping experiences. Summer temperatures average 85-95°F while spring and fall bring cooler weather with occasional precipitation.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Salt Lake City KOA provides convenient access to numerous trails. "We have stayed here several times when visiting family in SLC. Facilities are clean and the staff is nice," notes Kristi R., making it an ideal base camp for outdoor exploration.
Water recreation: At Dixie Creek Campground in East Canyon State Park, visitors can enjoy lake activities. "The views were perfect and the lake is active with choice of water fun rentals," says Joey M. The reservoir offers fishing, paddleboarding, and swimming options during summer months.
Wildlife viewing: Bridger Bay Campground on Antelope Island provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "They walk up and graze through the campsites which is a beautiful thing to wake up to," John C. mentions about the bison that roam freely on the island. Visitors can also spot pronghorn, jackrabbits, and numerous bird species.
What campers like
Proximity to city amenities: Many appreciate how Salt Lake City KOA balances urban convenience with camping atmosphere. "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," explains TMB, highlighting the accessibility benefits.
Recreational facilities: Campers consistently praise on-site amenities. "Nice bathhouses with private shower/toilets. Wifi and cable. Great play area. Bikes available including kid sized. Paved 80 mile bike trail along Jordan River. Giant chessboard. Nice pool area," Janet H. observes about the facilities at one North Salt Lake campground.
Scenic views: The mountain backdrop provides a stunning setting for camping. "Gorgeous campsites! They are a little close to each other but nice and clean," notes Lan V. about Bountiful Peak Campground, where many sites offer views of the valley below and surrounding mountains.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Mountain camping requires preparation for rapid weather changes. "We dealt with rain and even snow on the last morning… But there was green grass and a spot for fires," reports Stian M. about camping in the Bountiful area during spring.
Site spacing: Many campgrounds feature closely spaced sites. "If you're looking for a place that is convenient, full hook up, level concrete pads, subdivision desperate house wife's camping addition this is the place to be!" Cole A. remarks about site arrangements at some developed campgrounds.
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds have limited operating seasons. "The road is closed 3.5 miles into the park before where camping spots were indicated. No notice on when it would reopen," Sharon H. shares about Millcreek Canyon, illustrating the importance of checking current conditions.
Insect activity: Bugs can be problematic depending on season. "Lovely scenery, water is currently off so no showers but has a clean pit toilet. Only downside was the no see um flys you can't for a walk without getting swarmed by them and bitten," Georgia L. notes about spring conditions at Bridger Bay.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Lagoon RV Park & Campground offers unique family amenities. "Spots were clean, lots of shade from trees. One thing to note is the prices are slightly different than listed here," mentions Cheriana G., highlighting the convenience for families looking for entertainment options.
Safety considerations: Check campground surroundings before booking. "This whole area seems to be a local atv, dirt bike, mountain bike, and shooting area. Definitely lots of people shooting guns into gulleys during the day," Calder P. notes about dispersed camping areas, which may not be ideal for families with young children.
Weekend planning: Reserve well in advance for popular spots. "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," advises Ash S. about Granite Flat Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most pet friendly camping near North Salt Lake offers various hookup options. "Pull throughs or back in on paved level sites. Picnic table. FHU. Sites typically close with grass area seperating. No shade or privacy. Narrow interior roads," Janet H. details about site configurations.
Spacing considerations: RV sites vary significantly in size and privacy. "Even though the park was less than half full, they crammed all of the RVs into as small of an area as they could," notes one camper about Cherry Hill Campground, suggesting asking for specific site locations when booking.
Urban noise levels: When staying at campgrounds near the city, expect some urban sounds. "There are multiple trains/sirens/large semis blowing by all night," mentions North Idaho N., indicating that light sleepers might want to bring earplugs for city-adjacent camping.
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