M
Marcus 
Scout
ScoutLakeside RV Campground
Very nice staff and clean facilities
This was a great place to spend our Fourth of July. Full hook ups a nice pool, smaller park, but well kept and plenty of shade. And the staff is amazing.
Camping near Cottonwood Heights, UT
272 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Search destinations
Add dates
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons run directly through the mountains above Cottonwood Heights, giving this Salt Lake suburb closer access to alpine campgrounds and dispersed sites than almost any other city in northern Utah. Developed campgrounds in both canyons have designated sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and water in summer months. Free dispersed sites above Cottonwood Heights cover the primitive options at higher elevation where no reservations are needed but no services exist either.
Canyon campgrounds fill fast on summer weekends, particularly July and August. Booking developed sites 3-4 months out is realistic for peak dates. Salt Lake City dispersed options add more dispersed alternatives across the broader Wasatch range if spots closer to Cottonwood Heights are taken. Elevation above 8,000 feet means nights get cold even in July, so warm layers matter regardless of daytime temperatures.
Best Campgrounds near Cottonwood Heights (272)
1. Salt Lake City KOA Holiday
"The Salt Lake City KOA Holiday manages to pull it off perfectly. This campground is absolutely huge, serving as a massive, welcoming hub for travelers right in the heart of Utah's capital."
"I had the wonderful opportunity to stay the night at Salt Lake City KOA!"
from $50 - $189 / night
Check Availability2. Granite Flat (utah)
"Tucked in very back. Long ways to walk from car. Water spout next to car area. Will be sharing parking with 2 other sites. 2 lakes nearby. Fire pit with grill gate. Shaded area."
"Utah is such an amazing place to visit for the outdoors. My family and I come here once a year because we love hiking and being in the outdoors."
from $27 - $355 / night
Check Availability3. Spruces - Big Cottonwood
"Bathrooms always close by, no showers. All sites have a picnic table and fire pit. If you’re lucky, you can get a site close to the creek. Nice, cool nights in the summer."
"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"
from $29 - $327 / night
Check Availability4. Tanners Flat
"It was quiet, tucked away from anyone. Didn't really see anyone for the three days we are there. Our site was next to the river, which really helped drown out all other sounds! "
"We had site 11 close to the bathroom and in a flat, sunny clearing surrounded by trees. You could hear the nearby road a bit and see the mountains a little bit."
from $29 - $215 / night
Check Availability5. Little Mill
"We got a site with access to the river which my kids really enjoyed. There was a fun giant "sliding rock" in the area to climb on. Lots of trees for hammocks."
"The site we stayed at had many trees around to hang hammocks and also eat and picnic in the shade. There are brand new camp fires in all sites."
from $27 - $227 / night
Check Availability6. Redman Campground
"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."
"The campsites are clean, the bathrooms are exceptionally clean with flushing toilets, you are a walk or hike away from Brighton and immersed in some of the most beautiful mountains around."
from $29 - $215 / night
Check Availability7. Hailstone - Upper Fisher Campground — Jordanelle State Park
"This isn't the prettiest lake. It is nice and big, but since it is one of the closest to Utah Valley and Salt Lake Valley, it gets a lot of traffic."
"We stayed at the "McHenry" campground in a spot right next to a creek. The traffic noise was a bit prevalent during the day because it's close to the highway. Great tent pad."
from $35 - $50 / night
Check Availability8. Mountain Shadows RV Park
9. Red Pine Lake
"Red Pine Lake is located up Little Cottonwood Canyon, on the south side of the road."
"I knew that there were some nice trails (and views) in the Cottonwood canyons, and since they are close to Park City where I was staying, I thought this would be a good choice."
10. Willow Park Campground
"This campground was nestled in the middle of Lehi Utah and it was a great place for us to swing in for one night."
"We were able to get a spot next to the Jordan River under a beautiful tree. We brought our 16ft camper and didn’t need to back it in or anything."
from $25 - $175 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 12 min from Salt Lake City, UT
- 34 min from Provo, UT
- 39 min from Ogden, UT
- 1 hr 23 min from Logan, UT
Recent Camping Photos near Cottonwood Heights, UT
369 Photos of 272 Cottonwood Heights Campgrounds
Melissa K.
Tanners Flat
Derek E.
Red Pine Lake
Jason H.
Jordan Pines
Dana
Spruces - Big Cottonwood
Emma H.
Silver Lake Backcountry
Michael P.
Albion Basin
Megan W.
Lake Desolation Primitive Sites
Heather K.
Redman Campground
Heather K.
Granite Flat (utah)
Jenny R.
Mineral Basin Dispersed
Jody J.
Salt Lake City KOA Holiday
Lilliana J.
Sawmill Picnic
Recent Reviews near Cottonwood Heights, UT
1508 Reviews of 272 Cottonwood Heights Campgrounds
Aaron S.
RangerSalt Lake City KOA Holiday
Salt Lake City KOA Holiday Review: A Huge Urban Oasis with Great Community
When you are traveling through a major metropolitan area, finding an RV park that is both highly accessible and comfortable can be a challenge. The Salt Lake City KOA Holiday manages to pull it off perfectly. This campground is absolutely huge, serving as a massive, welcoming hub for travelers right in the heart of Utah's capital.
Location and Accessibility
If you are looking for prime convenience in the Salt Lake Valley, this location is incredibly hard to beat.
Highway Access: The park is situated perfectly right off Interstate 80, Interstate 15, and Redwood Road. You won't have to navigate miles of confusing city streets to park your rig.
City Proximity: It is exceptionally close to both downtown Salt Lake City and the Salt Lake City International Airport. Whether you want to explore Temple Square or just need a practical, easy layover, the location is ideal.
Provisions: There is a Maverik gas station only a couple of blocks away—perfect for fueling up large RVs and grabbing ice or road snacks without any hassle.
Campground Vibe and Amenities
Despite being an urban campground, it offers a relaxing atmosphere that makes you want to hang out and enjoy the outdoors.
The Grounds: The property features beautiful mature trees that provide excellent, much-needed shade across the sites. We felt very safe and secure throughout our entire stay. Have to be flexible with your Starlink dish location. Our ladder mount was right under a nice shade tree. So our dish hung out on our picnic table.
Amenities: It features a really nice, well-maintained swimming pool that is perfect for unwinding after a long day of driving or exploring the city.
The"Maze" of Sites: Because the park is so massive, taking an evening stroll through the winding maze of sites became one of our favorite nightly activities.
The Hitched4fun Verdict
One of the best parts about staying at a park this large is getting to see all the different RVs and unique campsite setups. No two campers are exactly the same, yet we all share the same passion for traveling side-by-side. The Salt Lake City KOA Holiday really highlights why the RVing community is the absolute best. Great location, solid amenities, and wonderful people make this a top-tier urban stop.
Rating: Highly Recommended by the entire Hitched4fun.com crew!
Kindra C.
TravelerCurrant Creek
Beautiful and remote
I've been camping here since I was a little girl and it's always been one of my favorite places in the world. I love how high up and difficult it is to get up there. Bugs weren't too bad this year, everything was clean and well maintained. We stayed in loop B and the host was amazing
Cami M.ScoutKyhv Peak Dispersed
BEAR ENCOUNTER!
Beautiful site, not a ton of room to camp if you’re in a rooftop tent, just a gravel parking lot. But down in the field is gorgeous. No tables or chairs so be aware of that. We had a bear encounter up at the gravel spot so DO NOT leave any food out or leave anything with a scent near where you are camping and bring bear spray! There are no bear boxes so keep that in mind as well (leaving trash in your car is not good enough for those who don’t know).
Cadence B.TravelerStrawberry Ridge Dispersed Camping
Beautiful Sites the farther you go
A lot of Dispersed camping off the road, the beginning fills up with RVs pretty quick but if you are willing to go up the road for a while you will be rewarded with beautiful spots and quiet serene nature. High clearance is recommended, but with careful driving, anyone can get up the road. Some spots require 4x4, and those are some of the best.
Noel C.
GuideMud Creek Campground
Serene night
An area with many (20?) dispersed sites on a gently sloping meadow. We found a site tucked in the aspens above. Only drawback is the occasional atv
- PPaige L.Traveler
Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
Secluded and Stunning Views
Absolutely gorgeous! While I did end up meeting some other people up there and there was a bit of traffic, it was the whole place to myself and absolutely stunning! There’s a couple of fire pits to choose from with the biggest one being in the center of camp. I got up there in my Subaru, but I definitely wouldn’t recommend a Prius going up. Very pretty and only downside is that there were a lot of wasps. I’m not sure if that’s seasonally or what, but I did stay in my tent because there were so many and all the time. I would come back here!
No bathrooms, no running water, just beautiful views of Mother Nature
DreaScoutSalt Lake City KOA Holiday
Hostility and over charging
Worst experience , my slide out wouldn't go in because a boat broke causing it to go off track in addition, breaking my gear teeth, I reported it to front office and they charged me for 3 extra days. I did not use Total rip off an extremely rude money hungry , hostile environment would not recommend
- MMichael H.Guide
Bridger Bay Campground — Antelope Island State Park
Hot
Well kept campground. Nice views of the lake. No shade but they do have covered picnic tables. Lots to see if you explore the island. Be prepared for gnats as there are plenty to go around.
Guide to Cottonwood Heights
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping in Big Cottonwood Canyon?
Where can I find camping in Big Cottonwood Canyon?
Big Cottonwood Canyon offers excellent camping options near Salt Lake City. Spruces - Big Cottonwood is the primary developed campground in the canyon, featuring reservable sites, drinking water, and restroom facilities. It's nestled among spruce trees with easy access to hiking trails and fishing spots. For those seeking a more rustic experience, Redman Campground provides a quieter alternative with similar amenities. Both campgrounds are typically open from late May through September, depending on snow conditions. Sites fill quickly during summer weekends, so reservations are highly recommended. Big Cottonwood Canyon's camping options provide a perfect mountain escape just minutes from the Salt Lake Valley.
Is RV camping available in Cottonwood Canyon Utah?
Is RV camping available in Cottonwood Canyon Utah?
RV camping options near Cottonwood Canyon are somewhat limited but available. For full hookups and premium amenities, Salt Lake City KOA offers convenient RV sites with easy access to the canyons. Just a bit further, Rock Cliff Area Campground at Jordanelle State Park has been renovated from a tent-only area to an RV campground with full hookups. The campground is clean, fully functional, and relatively new. Some sites in Big Cottonwood Canyon can accommodate smaller RVs, but most aren't suitable for larger rigs due to narrow, winding roads and limited turning space. For big rigs, consider Mountain Shadows RV Park near Draper as a convenient basecamp for exploring the canyons.
Are there camping options in Little Cottonwood Canyon?
Are there camping options in Little Cottonwood Canyon?
Little Cottonwood Canyon offers limited but scenic camping options. For backpacking enthusiasts, Red Pine Lake provides beautiful hike-in camping with stunning alpine views. It's free but requires a moderate 3.5-mile hike to reach. Silver Lake Backcountry also offers primitive camping opportunities for those willing to hike in. Unlike Big Cottonwood Canyon, Little Cottonwood has fewer developed campgrounds due to watershed protection regulations. Dispersed camping is generally prohibited in much of the canyon to protect the watershed. For those seeking amenities, consider nearby options like Lilly Lake Campground in the adjacent Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest.
What campgrounds in Cottonwood Heights have flush toilets?
What campgrounds in Cottonwood Heights have flush toilets?
Near Cottonwood Heights, several campgrounds offer flush toilets for a more comfortable camping experience. Anderson Cove in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest provides flush toilets and is described as a perfect little oasis tucked away from Salt Lake City with bathrooms conveniently located throughout the campground. For those willing to travel a bit further, Mountain Valley RV Resort in Heber City offers premium facilities with modern restrooms. Most developed campgrounds in the area maintain flush toilets during the main camping season (May-September), though some switch to vault toilets in shoulder seasons or during water restrictions.
Keep Exploring