The best camping near Salt Lake City with campfires

·

Salt Lake City, Utah sits in Salt Lake Valley with Oquirrh Mountains to the west and the Wasatch Range to the east. The city’s borders make up the banks of Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the entire western hemisphere. After swimming and boating around the lake, set up camp at Great Salt Lake State Park on a tent, RV, or primitive campsite on the beach. Nearby parks like Antelope Island State Park offer campers views of free-range bison right from their tent window. Or, take a break from the saltwater and discover Utah Lake State Park, where warm fresh waters await swimmers and anglers alike.

96% (323) 287 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Salt Lake City

2. RIVER BEND CAMP GROUND

96%
(126)
25mi from Salt Lake City · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
ENTRANCE TO OUR PROPERTY IS STRAIGHT NORTH AT THE END OF THE PAVEMENT. PLEASE DO NOT TURN LEFT ON SESSION LANE! We have ten acres that our home sit on but about 9 acres that consist of dry farm grass. We use 1 acre for camping and parking. The Weber river runs across the back of our property where we have a campground with tables and firepits. This is a family campground. We do not have Electrical Power or Water hookups. We have added 4 wooden porta potty enclosed in small tents which we service every day or as needed. Site selection is determined by type of sleeping accommodations and managements discretion. We have now have one tent areas and 1 RV spot. **We allow 2 adults per site and/or 2 adults and minor children per site. (Larger Family Gathering must be approved and pay extra based on the number of family or friends expected) WE NOW HAVE A COMPLETE FIRE BAN. ALL FIREWORKS ARE CURRENTLY STRICTLY PROHIBITED We are not a public campground and only list through Hipcamp and so our property is posted with NO TRESPASSING SIGNS. It is very important to let us know your approximate arrival time and call when you arrive. We will guide you down to the campgrounds and show you the best spots base on your type of camping. (Sleeping in trailers or van's versus tent campers) One draw back to our property is that we are within 1/2 mile of a well use highway (US 84) and railroad track. We have only had one camper who was concerned about the noise. Here at the house we don't notice it and maybe we are just use to it. Limited swimming and use of paddle board based on river conditions. Fishing is limited because we are on private property and the river is not stocked by the Utah fish and game. So, we are dependent on normal reproduction of the fish. Fly fishing being the best however you can use lures. Power bait or any bait that requires treble hooks are not allowed.. We would prefer catch and release. ALL UTAH FISHING REGULATION APPLY. WE HAVE INDICATED WHEEL CHAIR ACCESSIBLE. THE WHOLE AREA IS BASICLLY LEVEL AND GRASS AND BARK COVERED.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from 
$45
 / night

6. Sun Outdoors Salt Lake City

3.7mi from Salt Lake City · 184 sites · RVs, Lodging
Sun Outdoors Salt Lake City stands out as a premier camping destination due to its close proximity to both the breathtaking Great Salt Lake and the vibrant downtown area. This unique campground offers an ideal blend of outdoor adventure and urban convenience, making it perfect for those seeking both relaxation and exploration. Guests can immerse themselves in a variety of activities, from hiking scenic trails to enjoying local dining and shopping options just minutes away. For a fun way to explore the area, consider renting one of the Surrey bikes available on-site. If you prefer to stay within the campground, you can take advantage of the inviting pool, engage in friendly competition with life-size board games, or gather around the community BBQ grills for a delightful cookout. Accommodations at Sun Outdoors include spacious RV sites, charming Airstream trailer rentals, and cozy cabin rentals, ensuring a comfortable stay for every type of camper. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, this campground is the perfect base for your Salt Lake City adventure!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$100
 / night

7. Brigham City KOA - On the Fruit Way

95%
(10)
51mi from Salt Lake City · 65 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Experience the unique charm of our family-friendly campground, where breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere create the perfect escape from city life. Nestled at the foot of Willard Peak and surrounded by the tranquil waters of the Great Salt Lake and lush fruit orchards, our campground has been a cherished retreat for nature lovers for over 60 years as a KOA. Our location offers easy access to the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, renowned for its diverse bird species, and the majestic buffalo at Antelope Island State Park. Adventure seekers can explore nearby canyons for hiking, fishing, hunting, skiing, and golfing, all set against stunning landscapes. ATV enthusiasts will appreciate the Shoshone and Mantua trail systems, while history buffs can delve into the past at the Golden Spike National Historic Site. For those looking to unwind, our campground features a refreshing pool, picturesque vistas, and a cozy bonfire area perfect for making memories. With both weekly and monthly rates available, we cater to your stay, ensuring a memorable experience. Conveniently located near historic downtown Ogden and Salt Lake City, you'll find plenty of restaurants and shops to explore. Join us for an unforgettable getaway, where adventure and relaxation await! Your hosts, James, Kristan, Talon, and Emily, look
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$35
 / night

9. Second Chance Ranch

88%
(184)
26mi from Salt Lake City · 1 site · Tent
My husband Shaun and I fell into rescuing horses quite by accident.  We started a non-profit to promote the Rescue, Rehab, Retrain and Rehome method to get horses out of bad situations and into good homes. We are a small rescue and hope to be much bigger one day!  Please come visit, enjoy our beautiful property and support an amazing non-profit cause while you are at it! Learn more about this land:We are a non-profit horse rescue situated on one acre. The best description I can give of our property is that it's great for a convenient and quaint "Stop and Sleep".  This is because we are located right off of the old main highway and have two neighbors within eyesight from the house. This site is very convenient for quick stays since it is so CLOSE TO THE HIGHWAY this makes it convenient but may not be appropriate for very light sleepers or for extended stays.  The camping area is simple, with wild grass and a fire pit, bordered by the river on one side and the horse pasture on the other.  You can see and hear the river easily April-July. The river is seasonal and does dry up in mid July-August. Drinkable hose water is available near the house.  If you want a ranch-style camping experience with lots of interaction with your hosts and opportunity for adventure then you have chosen the right camping location! You are welcome to join in the daily choring activities or choose to be taken on a scenic trail ride or thrilling guided gallop on beautiful and well-trained rescue horses.PLEASE NOTE: The bathroom is located in our house and has a flushable toilet and shower with hot water. Bathroom hours are 8am-9pm.  Parking is located a few hundred feet from the campsite, just off of the road.  You must walk a few hundred feet to get to the campsite and you cannot pull your vehicle right up to it. While we do welcome car campers and pop-up trailers, just know you won't be parked at the campsite if you choose to sleep this way.  We look forward to having you camp with us! 
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$20
 / night

14. Valley View RV Resort

91%
(16)
22mi from Salt Lake City · 131 sites · RVs
Situated at the base of the Rocky Mountains' Wasatch Front--and just minutes off I-15 or I-84--Valley View RV Resort is one of the best equipped RV resorts in our area. And, we're surrounded by many world class attractions and activities. Hiking and biking trails on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail System Hill Air Force Base and it's amazing air force plane museum Snow Basin Ski Resort Salt Lake City and Temple Square Antelope Island Fishing and floating on the Weber River We are big rig friendly resort and have multiple "buddy sites" for RV groups traveling together and we can accommodate any size rig and trailer combination up to 100+ feet which means we have plenty of parking for all your stuff! Once your adventures are complete for the day, come back and soak in the hot tub or relax in the pool. And if work needs to get be done, you will love our fiber internet speeds! We are open year round, and we are family friendly and pet friendly and big rig friendly so get packing and get here! We look forward to meeting you soon!
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$54
 / night

18. Horse Farm RV Site

16mi from Salt Lake City · 1 site · Tent, RV
Water and 30AMP 40ft site. Dump Stations close by. The site is nestled in very special part of the Sandy suburbs, where every property has a mini farm. As you stroll these quiet tree-lined roads, you will discover horses, alpacas, chickens, and many other friendly RVers. With towering mountain views and golden sunsets, you will feel the campground vibes you are used to. Where we are, the pace is slow. We usually wake up to horse whinnies and fresh eggs from our chickens. Your friendly dogs and horses are welcome too. We have a paddock, terrace, firepit and some of the best mountain views in the valley. The site can accommodate up to 40ft, with additional with road parking for tow/toad vehicles. The site is mostly shaded, but also has clear skies for a Starlink. In the summer, the site is 5 minutes to mountain trails, 5 minutes to an equestrian trail area, 10 minutes to an epic mountain biking single track area, 18 minutes to Snowbird for tram rides to the top of the Wasatch, summer concerts and Oktoberfest. In the winter, you have 7 ski resorts to choose from, skiing on arguably the 'greatest snow on earth'. With Alta only 22 minutes away, you can ski one of three ski-only resorts in the world. Or, choose boarding at the fun-filled terrain park of Brighton. Park City is the largest resort in the USA and is only 45 minutes away. For city amenities, Sandy has everything. Multiple RV suppliers and repair shops, tire shops, and all the equipment stores you would ever need, including an REI. We have grocery stores from Trader Joe's down the street, to a Kroger a couple of minutes away and a Wholefoods 15min away. Sandy has many great family restaurants and coffee shops and is only a short drive (or light-rail ride) into downtown Salt Lake City which is packed with world-class cuisine and entertainment. Sandy is home to Utah's hockey team and soccer teams, a training center for the Utah Jazz and a beautiful new Theatre with Broadway shows playing regularly. For kids/parents, there is a stunning aquarium, awesome indoor play centers and huge parks, pools and splash-pads. We would love to have you stay. Won't you join us?
Pets
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from 
$80
 / night

19. Roam Springville

43mi from Salt Lake City · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Roam Springville sits at the foot of the Wasatch Range, surrounded by mountain views and wide open skies. Conveniently located off I-15, it’s the perfect basecamp for both weekend getaways and long-term stays. The property features a spacious clubhouse, bathhouses, and a pavilion made for gathering, grilling, and enjoying good company—all just minutes from downtown Provo and the trails that lead into Utah’s wild canyons. Roam Springville 1550 North 1750 West, Springville, UT 84663 Roam Springville is where mountain air meets desert drive. The Wasatch Range rises just beyond your site, with trails, canyons, and wide-open skies all around. Right off I-15, it’s an easy stop with tent and paved RV sites, plus a spacious clubhouse for gatherings big or small. Spend your days exploring nearby canyons, spotting birds along the migration route, or heading north for a taste of Salt Lake City. In summer, cool off at the water park or by the pool. In winter, trade wheels for skis and discover why Utah powder is the stuff of legend.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$49
 / night

20. Beach-in Tiny House

23mi from Salt Lake City · 1 site · Lodging
Try out the tiny house living in this beach themed 28' tiny home with all the comforts of home, except in a smaller space. There are 2 lofts, each with a queen size bed but due to the risk of falling the minimum age is 8 and above. The fire pit is just steps away with fabulous sunsets in the evening. Come experience what life is like living in a tiny home! The space Located in Erda, this unique tiny house features 2 wonderful bedrooms with 2 queen beds, a lovely bathroom with a hair dryer, and essential amenities like AC, WiFi, and a washing/drying machine. The tremendous heating/AC unit ensures a cozy stay for guests. Whether you're looking to relax or explore the area, this charming property is the perfect home base for your getaway. We look forward to welcoming you to our place. Guest access Access to a tiny home, fire pit, and outdoor parking. Other things to note ~Climbing in and out of the loft bed on the steep stairs and steep shelving for the 2nd loft requires agility and balance. See the photos in this listing and consider whether you will be able to climb up and down from the loft without putting yourself in danger. Due to the risk of falling, the age minimum is 8 and above. The toilet is a waterless toilet called Separett which diverts urine from solids if you want to look up details online so you are surprised when you arrive. Quiet time is 9:30pm to 8:00 am. Fire pit is available and firewood is provided
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$99
 / night

Salt Lake City, Utah sits in Salt Lake Valley with Oquirrh Mountains to the west and the Wasatch Range to the east. The city’s borders make up the banks of Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the entire western hemisphere. After swimming and boating around the lake, set up camp at Great Salt Lake State Park on a tent, RV, or primitive campsite on the beach. Nearby parks like Antelope Island State Park offer campers views of free-range bison right from their tent window. Or, take a break from the saltwater and discover Utah Lake State Park, where warm fresh waters await swimmers and anglers alike.

96% (323) 287 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Salt Lake City

2. RIVER BEND CAMP GROUND

96%
(126)
25mi from Salt Lake City · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
ENTRANCE TO OUR PROPERTY IS STRAIGHT NORTH AT THE END OF THE PAVEMENT. PLEASE DO NOT TURN LEFT ON SESSION LANE! We have ten acres that our home sit on but about 9 acres that consist of dry farm grass. We use 1 acre for camping and parking. The Weber river runs across the back of our property where we have a campground with tables and firepits. This is a family campground. We do not have Electrical Power or Water hookups. We have added 4 wooden porta potty enclosed in small tents which we service every day or as needed. Site selection is determined by type of sleeping accommodations and managements discretion. We have now have one tent areas and 1 RV spot. **We allow 2 adults per site and/or 2 adults and minor children per site. (Larger Family Gathering must be approved and pay extra based on the number of family or friends expected) WE NOW HAVE A COMPLETE FIRE BAN. ALL FIREWORKS ARE CURRENTLY STRICTLY PROHIBITED We are not a public campground and only list through Hipcamp and so our property is posted with NO TRESPASSING SIGNS. It is very important to let us know your approximate arrival time and call when you arrive. We will guide you down to the campgrounds and show you the best spots base on your type of camping. (Sleeping in trailers or van's versus tent campers) One draw back to our property is that we are within 1/2 mile of a well use highway (US 84) and railroad track. We have only had one camper who was concerned about the noise. Here at the house we don't notice it and maybe we are just use to it. Limited swimming and use of paddle board based on river conditions. Fishing is limited because we are on private property and the river is not stocked by the Utah fish and game. So, we are dependent on normal reproduction of the fish. Fly fishing being the best however you can use lures. Power bait or any bait that requires treble hooks are not allowed.. We would prefer catch and release. ALL UTAH FISHING REGULATION APPLY. WE HAVE INDICATED WHEEL CHAIR ACCESSIBLE. THE WHOLE AREA IS BASICLLY LEVEL AND GRASS AND BARK COVERED.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from 
$45
 / night

6. Sun Outdoors Salt Lake City

3.7mi from Salt Lake City · 184 sites · RVs, Lodging
Sun Outdoors Salt Lake City stands out as a premier camping destination due to its close proximity to both the breathtaking Great Salt Lake and the vibrant downtown area. This unique campground offers an ideal blend of outdoor adventure and urban convenience, making it perfect for those seeking both relaxation and exploration. Guests can immerse themselves in a variety of activities, from hiking scenic trails to enjoying local dining and shopping options just minutes away. For a fun way to explore the area, consider renting one of the Surrey bikes available on-site. If you prefer to stay within the campground, you can take advantage of the inviting pool, engage in friendly competition with life-size board games, or gather around the community BBQ grills for a delightful cookout. Accommodations at Sun Outdoors include spacious RV sites, charming Airstream trailer rentals, and cozy cabin rentals, ensuring a comfortable stay for every type of camper. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, this campground is the perfect base for your Salt Lake City adventure!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$100
 / night

7. Brigham City KOA - On the Fruit Way

95%
(10)
51mi from Salt Lake City · 65 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Experience the unique charm of our family-friendly campground, where breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere create the perfect escape from city life. Nestled at the foot of Willard Peak and surrounded by the tranquil waters of the Great Salt Lake and lush fruit orchards, our campground has been a cherished retreat for nature lovers for over 60 years as a KOA. Our location offers easy access to the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, renowned for its diverse bird species, and the majestic buffalo at Antelope Island State Park. Adventure seekers can explore nearby canyons for hiking, fishing, hunting, skiing, and golfing, all set against stunning landscapes. ATV enthusiasts will appreciate the Shoshone and Mantua trail systems, while history buffs can delve into the past at the Golden Spike National Historic Site. For those looking to unwind, our campground features a refreshing pool, picturesque vistas, and a cozy bonfire area perfect for making memories. With both weekly and monthly rates available, we cater to your stay, ensuring a memorable experience. Conveniently located near historic downtown Ogden and Salt Lake City, you'll find plenty of restaurants and shops to explore. Join us for an unforgettable getaway, where adventure and relaxation await! Your hosts, James, Kristan, Talon, and Emily, look
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$35
 / night

9. Second Chance Ranch

88%
(184)
26mi from Salt Lake City · 1 site · Tent
My husband Shaun and I fell into rescuing horses quite by accident.  We started a non-profit to promote the Rescue, Rehab, Retrain and Rehome method to get horses out of bad situations and into good homes. We are a small rescue and hope to be much bigger one day!  Please come visit, enjoy our beautiful property and support an amazing non-profit cause while you are at it! Learn more about this land:We are a non-profit horse rescue situated on one acre. The best description I can give of our property is that it's great for a convenient and quaint "Stop and Sleep".  This is because we are located right off of the old main highway and have two neighbors within eyesight from the house. This site is very convenient for quick stays since it is so CLOSE TO THE HIGHWAY this makes it convenient but may not be appropriate for very light sleepers or for extended stays.  The camping area is simple, with wild grass and a fire pit, bordered by the river on one side and the horse pasture on the other.  You can see and hear the river easily April-July. The river is seasonal and does dry up in mid July-August. Drinkable hose water is available near the house.  If you want a ranch-style camping experience with lots of interaction with your hosts and opportunity for adventure then you have chosen the right camping location! You are welcome to join in the daily choring activities or choose to be taken on a scenic trail ride or thrilling guided gallop on beautiful and well-trained rescue horses.PLEASE NOTE: The bathroom is located in our house and has a flushable toilet and shower with hot water. Bathroom hours are 8am-9pm.  Parking is located a few hundred feet from the campsite, just off of the road.  You must walk a few hundred feet to get to the campsite and you cannot pull your vehicle right up to it. While we do welcome car campers and pop-up trailers, just know you won't be parked at the campsite if you choose to sleep this way.  We look forward to having you camp with us! 
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$20
 / night

14. Valley View RV Resort

91%
(16)
22mi from Salt Lake City · 131 sites · RVs
Situated at the base of the Rocky Mountains' Wasatch Front--and just minutes off I-15 or I-84--Valley View RV Resort is one of the best equipped RV resorts in our area. And, we're surrounded by many world class attractions and activities. Hiking and biking trails on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail System Hill Air Force Base and it's amazing air force plane museum Snow Basin Ski Resort Salt Lake City and Temple Square Antelope Island Fishing and floating on the Weber River We are big rig friendly resort and have multiple "buddy sites" for RV groups traveling together and we can accommodate any size rig and trailer combination up to 100+ feet which means we have plenty of parking for all your stuff! Once your adventures are complete for the day, come back and soak in the hot tub or relax in the pool. And if work needs to get be done, you will love our fiber internet speeds! We are open year round, and we are family friendly and pet friendly and big rig friendly so get packing and get here! We look forward to meeting you soon!
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$54
 / night

18. Horse Farm RV Site

16mi from Salt Lake City · 1 site · Tent, RV
Water and 30AMP 40ft site. Dump Stations close by. The site is nestled in very special part of the Sandy suburbs, where every property has a mini farm. As you stroll these quiet tree-lined roads, you will discover horses, alpacas, chickens, and many other friendly RVers. With towering mountain views and golden sunsets, you will feel the campground vibes you are used to. Where we are, the pace is slow. We usually wake up to horse whinnies and fresh eggs from our chickens. Your friendly dogs and horses are welcome too. We have a paddock, terrace, firepit and some of the best mountain views in the valley. The site can accommodate up to 40ft, with additional with road parking for tow/toad vehicles. The site is mostly shaded, but also has clear skies for a Starlink. In the summer, the site is 5 minutes to mountain trails, 5 minutes to an equestrian trail area, 10 minutes to an epic mountain biking single track area, 18 minutes to Snowbird for tram rides to the top of the Wasatch, summer concerts and Oktoberfest. In the winter, you have 7 ski resorts to choose from, skiing on arguably the 'greatest snow on earth'. With Alta only 22 minutes away, you can ski one of three ski-only resorts in the world. Or, choose boarding at the fun-filled terrain park of Brighton. Park City is the largest resort in the USA and is only 45 minutes away. For city amenities, Sandy has everything. Multiple RV suppliers and repair shops, tire shops, and all the equipment stores you would ever need, including an REI. We have grocery stores from Trader Joe's down the street, to a Kroger a couple of minutes away and a Wholefoods 15min away. Sandy has many great family restaurants and coffee shops and is only a short drive (or light-rail ride) into downtown Salt Lake City which is packed with world-class cuisine and entertainment. Sandy is home to Utah's hockey team and soccer teams, a training center for the Utah Jazz and a beautiful new Theatre with Broadway shows playing regularly. For kids/parents, there is a stunning aquarium, awesome indoor play centers and huge parks, pools and splash-pads. We would love to have you stay. Won't you join us?
Pets
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from 
$80
 / night

19. Roam Springville

43mi from Salt Lake City · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Roam Springville sits at the foot of the Wasatch Range, surrounded by mountain views and wide open skies. Conveniently located off I-15, it’s the perfect basecamp for both weekend getaways and long-term stays. The property features a spacious clubhouse, bathhouses, and a pavilion made for gathering, grilling, and enjoying good company—all just minutes from downtown Provo and the trails that lead into Utah’s wild canyons. Roam Springville 1550 North 1750 West, Springville, UT 84663 Roam Springville is where mountain air meets desert drive. The Wasatch Range rises just beyond your site, with trails, canyons, and wide-open skies all around. Right off I-15, it’s an easy stop with tent and paved RV sites, plus a spacious clubhouse for gatherings big or small. Spend your days exploring nearby canyons, spotting birds along the migration route, or heading north for a taste of Salt Lake City. In summer, cool off at the water park or by the pool. In winter, trade wheels for skis and discover why Utah powder is the stuff of legend.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$49
 / night

20. Beach-in Tiny House

23mi from Salt Lake City · 1 site · Lodging
Try out the tiny house living in this beach themed 28' tiny home with all the comforts of home, except in a smaller space. There are 2 lofts, each with a queen size bed but due to the risk of falling the minimum age is 8 and above. The fire pit is just steps away with fabulous sunsets in the evening. Come experience what life is like living in a tiny home! The space Located in Erda, this unique tiny house features 2 wonderful bedrooms with 2 queen beds, a lovely bathroom with a hair dryer, and essential amenities like AC, WiFi, and a washing/drying machine. The tremendous heating/AC unit ensures a cozy stay for guests. Whether you're looking to relax or explore the area, this charming property is the perfect home base for your getaway. We look forward to welcoming you to our place. Guest access Access to a tiny home, fire pit, and outdoor parking. Other things to note ~Climbing in and out of the loft bed on the steep stairs and steep shelving for the 2nd loft requires agility and balance. See the photos in this listing and consider whether you will be able to climb up and down from the loft without putting yourself in danger. Due to the risk of falling, the age minimum is 8 and above. The toilet is a waterless toilet called Separett which diverts urine from solids if you want to look up details online so you are surprised when you arrive. Quiet time is 9:30pm to 8:00 am. Fire pit is available and firewood is provided
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$99
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Salt Lake City with campfires guide

Where to go

Great Salt Lake State Park

A short drive west of the city brings Hipcampers to Great Salt Lake State Park for year-round camping. Campsites for trailers up to 40 feet with water and electric hookups are available by the lake’s rentable marinas for swimming and boating. Or reserve a spot right on the beach in primitive tent campsites with firepits and access to hikes that lead to views of Black Rock National Historic Landmark. There’s no fishing because of the lake’s high salinity and mineral content, but the thriving brine shrimp bring migratory birds that are great for birdwatching.

Antelope Island State Park

Antelope Island is the largest island in Great Salt Lake, a wonder of geography that becomes a peninsula when water levels are low. The geography of Antelope Island State Park creates great backcountry trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking (eBike rentals are also available at the visitor’s center). Then, stay at RV or primitive campsites in the park among local free-ranging bison, bighorn sheep, and pronghorn antelope. The pet-friendly park also has accessible campsites with full hookups, hot showers, and picnic tables.

Utah Lake State Park

The mouth of Provo River empties into Utah’s largest freshwater lake. Warm, 75°F Utah Lake waters are rife with catfish, walleye, and white bass available to fish year-round. It’s also great for swimming, boating, and paddleboarding—with canoes and kayaks available to rent within the state park. Campers can rent boat slips too, but they do fill up fast during popular camping seasons. After a day of fishing, set up camp at pet-friendly paved pads that offer back-in and pull-through options as well as full hookups and firepits.

When to go

The humid continental climate of Utah’s Great Basin area provides Salt Lake City hot, dry, and mostly clear summers, averaging high temperatures of 86°F. Winter temperatures range from 27°F to 49°F, which makes for great winter camping opportunities for skiers and snowboarders who visit the area. Pacific Ocean jet stream air currents flow right over SLC, which does send large storms from October through May.