North Salt Lake's camping options span several climatic zones across elevations ranging from 4,300 feet in the valley to over 8,000 feet in the Wasatch Mountains. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85-95°F during day and dropping to 50-60°F at night. Camping conditions vary dramatically from desert-like environments near Antelope Island to alpine settings in Big Cottonwood Canyon, where late-season snow can persist into June.
What to do
Hiking near mountain streams: At Spruces Campground in Big Cottonwood Canyon, campers can access nearby trails with running water. "I just recently stayed at the Spruces. Loved it. Very peaceful. I stayed in campground #47. Right near the end of the loop before it goes into the peaceful forest section. Great one. Right by water," notes Tom B.
Fishing in stocked waters: The ponds at Echo Island RV Resort offer beginner-friendly fishing opportunities. "They had a small pond for kids to fish in, two swimming pools and two hot tubs, very clean and modern facilities, well maintained campsites with fire pit," reports Carlee G.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: White Rock Bay Campground at Antelope Island State Park provides excellent wildlife encounters. "We saw fox that came right up to our tent and lots of bison close by. Quiet place," shares Whitney K., highlighting the unique nature experiences available just 40 minutes from North Salt Lake.
Paddleboarding and water sports: For water activities beyond glamping in North Salt Lake, try Anderson Cove Campground. "Good beach front not a far walk from our campsite. Lots of trees to hang your hammocks up on. If you have some water toys it's awesome because you can anchor them on the shore or the dock," writes Blake T.
What campers like
Fall foliage viewing: The changing colors at Dixie Creek Campground offer spectacular autumn scenery. "Great family place, large tent sites, bathroom, beautiful views, and clean water," shares Bruce P. The surrounding mountains display vibrant yellows and reds from late September through mid-October.
Convenient proximity to Salt Lake City: Tanners Flat Campground sits just 20 minutes from the city in Little Cottonwood Canyon. "Given how close it is to the city, Tanners Flat has always been a little too busy for our family during the full swing of summer. September/early October gives cooler temperatures and less crowds, and we got to see some lovely fall colors," explains Sara M.
Quiet weekday camping: Several campgrounds offer more tranquil experiences midweek. "It gets extremely busy on weekends but nice and quiet on the weekdays. Checked in on a Wednesday afternoon for FCFS site. Plenty open," notes Kristen W. about Anderson Cove Campground.
Hot springs access: Some nearby glamping spots in North Salt Lake provide access to natural hot springs within 30-45 minutes driving distance. Water temperatures range from 95-105°F depending on location and season.
What you should know
Seasonal insect considerations: White Rock Bay experiences significant insect activity during certain months. "The landscape is beautiful but I cannot stress to you enough the amount of biting gnats there were. It was unbearable for us and bug spray didn't deter them one bit," warns Becca S.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites book quickly, especially for summer weekends. "You need to reserve sites here well in advance as it fills up for the entire Summer as soon as the reservation window opens," advises Barb D. about Anderson Cove Campground.
Water level fluctuations: Reservoir-based campgrounds experience significant water level changes seasonally. "Not a destination but nice stopover. Willard Bay much nicer. It's hot and the great salt lake is not where one wants to cool off," notes MeLinda W.
Dog restrictions: Redman Campground and others in watershed areas prohibit pets. "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," shares Natalie B.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Strategically time your outings for better wildlife sightings. "Woke up to deer outside our yurt. Great experience!" is common at several glamping locations in North Salt Lake area.
Snowshoeing in winter months: Some campgrounds offer winter access. "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!" advises Shilah M. about Spruces Campground.
Campgrounds with play areas: Pony Express RV Resort offers excellent facilities for children. "The playground is clean, a good sized one, but overrun with unsupervised kids," notes Amy, providing important context for families visiting with children.
Hammock-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with mature trees. "We had a blast at this campsite! There were lots of great trees for hammocking, fire pits, and bathrooms! Overall this place was beautiful and perfect for what we were doing!" shares Michael B. about Redman Campground.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: For RVers seeking luxury glamping near North Salt Lake, consider specific sites. "Sites have no shade. Sites are level with full hook up. Fitness center, 3 mile paved trail, and outdoor running track. Hiking trails minutes away. Site 1 is the best site for any shade," advises Jeff C. about Hill AFB FamCamp.
Site positioning matters: At Echo Island RV Resort, site selection affects your experience. "Good park design for the back up sites to get a large trailer situated no problem. Seems like a large and very nice pool, although I did not use those facilities," notes Alice P.
Roadway considerations: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads. "Only our house is a bit difficult to find but once we did it was excellent. Things we loved: Very clean and well kept, Flat, level parking spots - many pull-throughs, Very quiet," reports Brian C.
Elevation affects temperatures: Higher elevation campgrounds can be significantly cooler than in-town sites, often 10-15°F cooler during summer months. Pack appropriate layers even for summer glamping in North Salt Lake's mountain campgrounds.
