Camping options near South Jordan, Utah include established campgrounds with varying amenities and dispersed camping areas within driving distance of the city. The Salt Lake City KOA offers 180 sites with full hookups for RVs and tent camping areas, while nearby options like Mountain Shadows RV Park in Draper provide year-round accommodations with electric and water hookups. Flight Park State Recreation Area represents a more primitive option with limited facilities but closer proximity to the city.
Most developed campgrounds in the region operate year-round or have extended seasons from April through October. Access to higher-elevation sites like Granite Flat and Tanners Flat typically begins in May and continues through mid-October. "Very windy—20-30mph winds nearly everyday. That's why it's popular for hang gliding," reported one camper about Flight Park, highlighting how weather conditions impact the camping experience. Road conditions are generally good for standard vehicles at lower elevations, while mountain campgrounds may require more careful navigation. Visitors should note that many campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer weekends, with fees ranging from $15 for primitive sites to $70 for full-hookup RV sites.
The camping experience varies significantly between urban and mountain settings near South Jordan. Mountain campgrounds in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons like Spruces and Tanners Flat provide cooler temperatures and scenic mountain views but don't allow pets. In contrast, mixed-use campgrounds closer to the city offer convenience but more noise. One camper at Flight Park noted, "Pulling up we were a bit confused as there were paid sites near the bathroom. It appears that anything beyond that is dispersed. Easy access for big rigs with just a couple stretches of gravel road." RV parks like Mountain Shadows receive mixed reviews, with some praising convenient access to shopping and restaurants while others mention tight spaces and highway noise. For those seeking remote experiences, Lone Peak Cirque provides backcountry camping opportunities after a challenging hike.
$50 - $189 / night
"I had the wonderful opportunity to stay the night at Salt Lake City KOA!"
"We wanted to explore Salt Lake City so decided to stay at this downtown KOA. It is a large and crowded RV park but right on a Transit line (UTA light rail Trax) and biking distance to downtown."
$28 - $358 / night
"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."
$25 - $175 / night
"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."
$29 - $346 / night
"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"
$29 - $450 / night
"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."
$28 - $229 / night
"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."
"Pulling up we were a bit confused as there were paid sites near the bathroom. It appears that anything beyond that is dispersed."
"Convenient location right off the highway with full hook ups and nice paved sites. Dog areas, playground, games, and a pool."
"These sites a so close to each other. We only stop here to stay the night. WiFi is ok-phone hotspot is better.
Staff is great."
"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."
ScoutI stayed in the adult section and it was nice and quiet! The facilities were clean and well kept and the staff is friendly. The hot tub is so good I was oblivious to the hail and snow, too!
LegendThis was an easy and convenient place to pull over when exhausted from SLC traffic.
Full hook-ups, hot shower and no privacy between sites.
Served its purpose as a good place to rest before moving on.
ScoutThere was trash all over the place and people were ripping through the trails till 2 am blasting music. Some people came and camped right next to us and blasted music and refused to move. They proceded to leave beer cans all over their site and never put out their fire. Would not come back
ScoutAll grass has been torn up and dusty dirt. Hour are dusk to dawn, no camping.
ScoutThis place is a little trashy, but beautiful scenery night 🌙 skies great for viewing little to no light pollution if picked place on top of hill you would see more of the city's nearby and more of the lake. Roads are very ruff, SUV/trucks to 4 wheel drive recommend.
ScoutIt’s a pretty rowdy spot you’re right in the middle of all the ohv that is happening. If you’re looking for something chill this ain’t it. Also the campsites were pretty littered with trash which is a big bummer.
ScoutGreat spot near SLC for dispersed camping. Plenty of flat areas for bigger rigs. 4x4 may be needed to access other areas. There are trees nearby for plenty of shade.
I didn’t notice any bugs on my visit. Beautiful skies at night. I’ll definitely be coming back!
GuideThe road in is a little rough. Some cell service. Pretty views. Camp spots are not too close together.
ScoutLoved this spot! Very affordable, great amenities.
Camping sites near South Jordan, Utah range from low-elevation state parks to high-mountain campgrounds reaching up to 10,000 feet in the Wasatch Range. Summer temperatures at lower elevations can exceed 95°F while mountain sites remain 15-20 degrees cooler. Many canyon campgrounds enforce watershed protections that prohibit dogs and swimming in lakes due to their role as drinking water reservoirs.
Fishing opportunities: Access several stocked lakes and streams near Granite Flat (utah) where campers report "access to many fishing lakes and hiking trails!" The nearby Tibble Fork and Silver Lake Flat reservoirs contain trout and provide non-motorized boating options.
River access camping: Camp alongside rivers at Little Mill where one camper noted, "We loved it. You could hear the river and we had a great time." The American Fork Creek runs parallel to many campsites, creating a tranquil soundtrack throughout your stay.
Paragliding viewpoint: While camping at Flight Park State Recreation Area, observe paragliders launching from the hillside. As one visitor mentioned, "When we woke up there were paragliders ready to glide. Which was cool." The elevation provides panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley.
Convenient mountain escape: Many campers appreciate the proximity of Spruces - Big Cottonwood to urban areas while feeling remote. As one camper noted, "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."
Alpine hiking access: Reach pristine alpine lakes from Red Pine Lake backcountry sites. One camper explained, "The weekend can get very busy so during the week is the best time to camp as it's likely you'll be the only overnight camper." This destination provides access to both upper and lower Red Pine Lakes plus routes to summit nearby peaks.
Urban river parkway: Willow Park Campground offers accessibility to the Jordan River Parkway. A camper reported, "This is just down the street from our house but it's a fun place for family, neighborhood and scout camp outs any time of year. Great trails, playground, river access, and lots of room to spread out!"
Elevation seasons: Mountain campgrounds typically open late May through mid-October depending on snowpack. One visitor to Granite Flat warned about timing: "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."
Watershed restrictions: Canyon campgrounds prohibit dogs and swimming due to watershed regulations. A camper at Tanners Flat mentioned, "The nearby creek is pretty, but you cannot so much as wade in it without facing prosecution and a $1500 fine."
Varying noise levels: Urban campgrounds experience traffic noise while mountain sites provide more solitude. A Little Mill camper reported: "My only reason this campground didn't get 5 stars is due to the horrible road noise. I seriously thought I was at a truck stop off the interstate. Honking and racing cars until 3am just ruined it."
Playground access: Several city campgrounds feature play structures for children. At Willow Park, a camper noted: "This has been a great experience so far been here twice this year. I really enjoy this camping ground, clean very friendly staff and running water bathrooms."
Educational opportunities: Visit Timpanogos Cave National Monument from Little Mill. "Great relaxing family time, fishing on river close, close to tribble fork and silver lakes," shared one camper about activities for children.
Wildlife sightings: Many campsites offer opportunities to spot native animals. A camper at Spruces reported: "I have almost always seen moose and deer in the camp ground and the kids love to catch fish in the stream."
Site selection cautions: Urban RV parks have varying site conditions. A reviewer at Mountain Shadows RV Park warned: "Challenging back-in for our 30' ft travel trailer. Very cramped spot. Fortunately, we arrived before neighbors on both side did."
Extended stay considerations: Many RV parks near South Jordan cater to long-term residents. One camper observed: "I would say 75% or more of the spots are full time rv'ers. Mostly everyone is friendly, sites are clean, but kids and barking dogs everywhere!"
Level site availability: Mountain campgrounds can have uneven terrain. A visitor to Granite Flat noted: "The one downside was that the tent spot was not flat, and had quite a few large rocks. Otherwise, it was great."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best camping sites for families near South Jordan?
Families looking for camping near South Jordan should consider Payson Lakes, located about 45 minutes from Payson. This family-friendly destination offers excellent fishing for children, swimming areas, and kayaking opportunities in a motorboat-free environment for safety. Another great option is Bridger Bay Campground — Antelope Island State Park, approximately 45 minutes from Salt Lake City, where kids can spot bison, antelope, and other wildlife. The west side of the island provides spectacular sunset views across the mud flats, making it a memorable experience for the whole family.
Where can I find tent camping spots near South Jordan?
For tent camping near South Jordan, Granite Flat offers peaceful sites with ample space. Site 58 is particularly nice for tents, providing room for two medium tents and situated above a stream in a secluded back area. Another option is Anderson Cove in Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, which offers a quiet retreat from Salt Lake City with beach access and plentiful bathrooms. For those seeking free dispersed camping, Soldier's Pass Utah Backcountry provides basic sites with established fire rings, though be prepared for noise from the nearby shooting range.
What RV parks are available near South Jordan?
Mountain Valley RV Resort in Heber City is a top choice for RV campers, featuring concrete pads and an adult-only section for those seeking peace and quiet. The staff are welcoming, often greeting guests with golf cart escorts to their sites. For a newer option, check out Rock Cliff Area Campground — Jordanelle State Park, which was converted from a tent-only area to a clean, full-hookup RV campground in 2025. The Salt Lake City KOA also offers convenient RV accommodations closer to the city.
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