Camping options near West Valley City, Utah range from high-elevation forest sites to valley locations with river access. Most campgrounds in the Wasatch Mountains open from late May through mid-October due to seasonal snow closures at elevations between 6,400-7,400 feet. Summer temperatures at these elevations typically remain 10-15 degrees cooler than in the valley, with nighttime temperatures dropping into the 40s even during July and August.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: The Little Mill campground provides excellent access to local trails and Timpanogos Cave National Monument. "We went on many different hikes right from the campground and a few others not far away. We saw moose, went fishing, and even stopped for icecream at stone hass in the solitude village right up the street," notes one visitor.
Mountain biking: Redman Campground serves as a starting point for the Wasatch Crest Trail. A camper reports, "This is super close to my favorite mountain bike ride in Northern Utah - The Wasatch Crest Trail. As you can tell in the pictures, this area is very lush and rich with pine trees. It stays relatively cool, even in the summer time."
Paragliding viewing: At Flight Park State Recreation Area, campers can watch paragliders take off from the mountain. "When we woke up there were paragliders ready to glide. Which was cool," one visitor mentions, though they also warn about the wind conditions.
What campers like
Riverside campsites: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites at Spruces - Big Cottonwood. One reviewer shares, "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's goes into the peaceful forest section. Great one. Right by water."
Natural sounds: Campers consistently mention appreciating the sounds of nature. At Nunns Park, "The river is right there and makes some beautiful yet subtle white noise. It is in provo canyon and the cliffs on either side are very impressive." Another visitor notes, "Sound of the river was awesome!"
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer opportunities to see local wildlife. At Redman Campground, a camper reports, "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."
What you should know
Limited pet access: Several campgrounds prohibit dogs due to watershed regulations. A camper trying to visit Tanners Flat noted, "NO Dogs allowed in the canyon- it is a watershed." Similarly, at Redman Campground, a visitor warned, "We had planned to camp here but dogs are not allowed."
Site reservation challenges: During peak season (June-August), advance bookings are essential. At Timpooneke, a frustrated camper shared, "Online it indicates that they have lots of walk ups, however, driving through we only saw 2 with the W designation and everything else had a reserved sign up."
Weather considerations: High elevation campgrounds experience cold nights year-round. At Granite Flat, a camper advises, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible yurt camping: For families interested in yurt camping near West Valley City, Utah, Spruces - Big Cottonwood offers options that don't require extensive hiking. A visitor shares, "We live in the Valley but need a getaway for a weekend and this was perfect. Not only was it less than 20 min from our house we felt as if we were lost in the wilderness."
Campgrounds with play areas: At Pony Express RV Resort, families appreciate the recreational options. One reviewer notes, "There are several different amenities including a pool, playground for the kids, life-size chessboard, and a mini-breed dog park!"
Nearby attractions: Choose campgrounds with family-friendly activities nearby. A visitor to Settlement Canyon reported, "Had some great areas for hiking and is really close to the reservoir for some awesome fishing. Would definitely come back."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through sites: For easier RV parking, choose campgrounds with appropriate spaces. At Pony Express RV Resort, a camper mentions, "Pull throughs or back in on paved level sites. Picnic table. FHU. Sites typically close with grass area seperating."
Site size considerations: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. At Tanners Flat, one visitor cautions, "The campground is pretty, but it is not for family camping with a tent. This campground has pull-through areas for people towing camping trailers, but not much for those that want to set up a full-size tent and lounge around outside."
Hookup availability: RVers should note that most mountain campgrounds have limited or no hookups. One visitor to Settlement Canyon mentions, "We had one night connected to power and one without and enjoyed both nights. It's a lovely forested area and the fall colors are just turning."
