Best Camping Spots in Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City offers some of the best camping spots in Utah. With its natural beauty and easy access to mountains, lakes, and forests, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Over the years, I’ve camped at many locations around Salt Lake City. Here’s a guide to some of my favorite spots, along with tips for making your trip unforgettable.
1. Antelope Island State Park
Antelope Island is one of the most unique camping locations near Salt Lake City. It’s about an hour’s drive from the city and offers breathtaking views of the Great Salt Lake. You’ll find campgrounds at Bridger Bay, which is the most popular spot on the island. The campgrounds have basic amenities like picnic tables, fire pits, and restrooms. However, there’s no drinking water available, so you’ll need to bring your own. You can hike, bike, or watch wildlife like bison and antelope, and the sunsets over the lake are stunning. Mosquitoes can be a problem in summer, so pack insect repellent. There aren’t any specific camping clubs for Antelope Island, but many outdoor groups in Salt Lake City organize trips here. Gear rentals aren’t available on the island, so you’ll need to bring your own.
There aren’t any specific camping clubs for Antelope Island, but many outdoor groups in Salt Lake City organize trips here. Gear rentals aren’t available on the island, so you’ll need to bring your own.
2. Mirror Lake Highway
The Mirror Lake Highway area is a favorite among campers for its variety of campgrounds and serene alpine scenery. It’s located in the Uinta Mountains, about a 90-minute drive from Salt Lake City. Popular campgrounds include Provo River Falls, Mirror Lake, and Trial Lake Campgrounds. These sites offer picnic areas, vault toilets, and fire pits, and some spots have access to drinking water. Fishing, kayaking, and hiking are popular activities here. The Mirror Lake Trail is perfect for a short day hike. Some local outdoor clubs like the Utah Outdoor Adventure Group organize camping trips here. You can join these groups to meet like-minded people. Most of these clubs assume you have your own gear, but they often share tips on rentals if you’re missing something.
Some local outdoor clubs like the Utah Outdoor Adventure Group organize camping trips here. You can join these groups to meet like-minded people. Most of these clubs assume you have your own gear, but they often share tips on rentals if you’re missing something.
3. Jordanelle State Park
Jordanelle State Park is a convenient camping spot just 40 minutes from Salt Lake City. It’s ideal for families and those who enjoy water-based activities. There are three camping areas: Hailstone, Rock Cliff, and Keetley. Each has modern amenities, including showers, restrooms, and hookups for RVs. The reservoir is great for boating, paddleboarding, and swimming, and there’s also a fishing dock. Jordanelle State Park doesn’t have a dedicated camping club, but several recreational groups use it for events. Some of the rental shops near the park provide camping gear if you don’t have your own.
4. Little Cottonwood Canyon
Little Cottonwood Canyon is a must-visit for anyone who loves mountain camping. It’s less than 30 minutes from Salt Lake City and is surrounded by stunning peaks and forests. Popular campgrounds include Tanners Flat and Albion Basin. These sites offer picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms. Drinking water is usually available. Hiking trails abound, with Cecret Lake being a favorite destination. Wildflowers bloom in late summer, making the area especially beautiful. The Wasatch Mountain Club often organizes camping and hiking trips in Little Cottonwood Canyon. They don’t provide gear but are a great resource for planning your trip and meeting experienced campers.
The Wasatch Mountain Club often organizes camping and hiking trips in Little Cottonwood Canyon. They don’t provide gear but are a great resource for planning your trip and meeting experienced campers.
5. Big Cottonwood Canyon
Big Cottonwood Canyon offers some of the best camping near Salt Lake City. The canyon is known for its beautiful lakes, trails, and rock climbing spots. Popular campgrounds include Spruces Campground and Redman Campground. Most sites have restrooms, picnic tables and fire pits and drinking water is available at Spruces. Lake Blanche Trail is a must-try for hikers, and there are also great fishing spots in the canyon. Many local outdoor groups, including Meetup.com hiking and camping clubs, organize trips to Big Cottonwood Canyon. Bring your own gear as rentals aren’t available on-site.
6. Millcreek Canyon
Millcreek Canyon is perfect for quick camping trips. It’s just 20 minutes from downtown Salt Lake City and offers a mix of group and individual campsites. Popular campgrounds include Church Fork and Box Elder Campgrounds. You’ll find picnic tables, fire pits, and restrooms, but drinking water is not always available. The trails here are great for both beginners and experienced hikers. Dog owners will love that many trails are pet-friendly. Local hiking groups often organize day trips and camping weekends in Millcreek Canyon. Some of these groups provide a list of recommended gear, but you’ll need to bring your own.
Tips for Camping in Salt Lake City
- Permits: Some areas require camping permits, especially in state parks and popular sites. Check in advance.
- Leave No Trace: Always clean up after yourself to keep these areas pristine.
- Weather: The weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains. Pack layers and check the forecast before you go.
- Gear Rentals: If you don’t have camping gear, stores like REI and local outfitters in Salt Lake City offer rentals. Some clubs also provide information on affordable rental options.
Joining Camping Communities
If you’re new to camping or want to meet other enthusiasts, joining a local community can be helpful. Groups like the Utah Outdoor Adventure Group and Wasatch Mountain Club frequently organize trips. They’re a great way to learn, share gear and make friends.
Camping around Salt Lake City has something for everyone, from serene lakes to rugged mountains. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway or a longer adventure, these spots won’t disappoint. Pack your gear, plan ahead, and enjoy the outdoors!
