North Fork County Park offers safari tent and yurt accommodations within a canyon setting, located approximately 50 miles northeast of Willard, Utah. The freshwater reservoirs and mountain lakes in this region maintain temperatures between 65-75°F during summer months, making them suitable for swimming and water recreation. Dispersed camping options around Willard provide alternatives to the structured glamping sites with more primitive conditions for those seeking solitude.
What to do
Hike to hidden waterfalls: At North Fork County Park, visitors can access trails leading to secluded natural features. "There's a hidden waterfall you can hike too, and a river runs through the park. It's a must!" notes camper Debbie P. The waterfall trail begins at the trailhead near campsite 6, which one reviewer describes as "a great stay at North Fork. Camped in the canyon near the trailheaad for the waterfall hike."
Mountain biking trails: Trail systems surrounding the Willard area accommodate various skill levels with both technical sections and beginner-friendly routes. "Excellent mountain bike trails also. Can't wait to go back and ride more of them," shares Rich J. from North Fork County Park. These trails connect multiple recreation areas and provide alternatives to water activities.
Wildlife viewing: Antelope Island State Park offers opportunities to observe native wildlife in natural habitats. "We saw fox that came right up to our tent and lots of bison close by," reports Whitney K. about her experience at White Rock Bay Campground. Morning and evening hours typically provide the best viewing conditions when animals are most active.
What campers like
Lake access: Willard Bay State Park features direct water access from camping areas. "We had beach access down to the beach and got to watch the sunset completely private," according to Haley N., who stayed at Willow Creek Campground. The beach areas provide sandy shorelines with gradual entry points suitable for children.
Spacious sites: Many glamping accommodations near Willard offer generous spacing between units. "The sites are well spaced apart giving plenty of privacy. We didn't have much shade in ours but they provide a ramada on a cement pad over the picnic table which was great," explains Erin A. about her stay at Cottonwood Campground.
Clean facilities: Brigham City-Perry South KOA maintains high standards for restrooms and common areas. "The staff were very friendly and helpful and the bathrooms were clean," notes Katherine E. Most glamping sites include access to shower facilities within 200-300 feet of accommodations.
What you should know
Seasonal insects: Bug activity varies significantly by season, particularly at waterfront locations. "Memorial Day weekend there are already loads of bugs. It would be a great spot in the dead of winter," warns one visitor to Willow Creek Campground. At Antelope Island, one camper reports, "We visited in early May when the No See Ums were at their peak, so forget enjoying a campfire at dusk, or anything at dusk."
Highway noise: Some glamping sites near Willard experience sound from nearby transportation routes. "The campground is literally right off the NB/SB freeway. The sites are pretty nice and many are very close to the lake... keep in mind, your day and night will be filled with freeway noises," advises Derek E. about Cottonwood Campground.
Reservation requirements: Anderson Cove and other popular sites book quickly during peak periods. "You need to reserve sites here well in advance as it fills up for the entire Summer as soon as the reservation window opens," shares Barb D. For first-come, first-served sites, arrival by early afternoon is recommended.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pads and play areas: Several campgrounds feature dedicated water features for children separate from lake swimming. "We had a blast swimming, playing at the playground and then spending time in the arcade," reports Kristan J. about the Brigham City-Perry South KOA facilities designed specifically for families with young children.
Creek exploration: South Fork Campground provides safe water play options along shallow riverbanks. "Access to Ogden River for tubing!" notes Barb D. The gentle current sections near camping areas maintain depths under 18 inches, making them suitable for supervised children.
Beach conditions: Sand quality varies between locations with some areas more suitable for beach activities. "The beach is so large and it's easy to camp out. The sand is soft and fun for the kids to build sand castles. We also enjoyed the small waves while on the beach," shares Whitney K. about Anderson Cove.
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: At many locations, hookup placement affects optimal parking position. "Note the sewer is toward the back, not the middle so bring lots of sewer hose," advises Laura K. about Cottonwood Campground at Willard Bay State Park.
Gate closing times: Some park entrances restrict after-hours access. "They lock the front gate at 10PM so if you are out after that time, you have to park your car on the street and walk to your campsite," warns Sandra W. about Hyrum State Park, a consideration for those planning evening activities outside the park.
Pull-through availability: Several glamping areas near Willard accommodate larger rigs with dedicated access routes. "Very spacious pull ins, full hook ups, and a quick trip to the beach," notes Erin A. The pull-through sites typically accommodate units up to 40 feet with room for slide-outs on both sides.
