Outdoor Blog
20 Best Places to Camp Within Two Hours of Salt Lake City UT

Named for the massive lake just to its north, Salt Lake City is a sleeper hit. There’s much more to this beautiful city than Mormons and Sundance.
A whopping 26 mountains in Nevada have an elevation over 11,000 feet. You might have assumed it’s all desert in the American west, but Utah is also home to over 1,000 fishable rivers and streams.
With all this natural beauty available just a short drive away, Utah’s capital city is a must-see destination for campers and pretty much any other outdoor enthusiast. Read on for the 20 best camping options in Salt Lake City!

Biking is a popular activity on many hiking trails outside of Salt Lake City.
1. Affleck Park
Just half an hour by car from Salt Lake City, the campground at Affleck Park is a bare-bones campground with beautiful forested views and a small creek. If you’re looking for a quiet camping getaway, Affleck Park is for you.
Even though it’s close to the city, cell service is a bit spotty – not ideal for staying in touch, but perfect for people who want to ditch the phone for a while. The reservations-only campground is generally open from Memorial Day through Halloween.
Pros:
- Grill & picnic table at each site
- Creek & woods
- Quiet hours 10 PM – 8 AM
Cons:
- No on-site drinking water
- No power hookups
2. Bridger Bay Beach
If you want to swim in the Great Salt Lake, Bridger Bay Beach is probably the easiest way to do it. Campsites here have picnic tables, fire pits, shade roofs, and nearby flush toilets, and a dump station.
There’s tons of wildlife at this campsite, including deer, rabbits, and buffalo. An easy hiking trail called the Lakeside Trail goes on for a little under 3 miles and every campsite has a view of the lake.
Pros:
- Flush toilets & dump site
- Lakeside
- Basic amenities
- Hiking trail & wildlife
Cons:
- No potable water or electricity
3. Brigham City/Perry South KOA
Conveniently located close to the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge and Antelope Island State Park, this KOA is a step above most others. Folks who want to get the camping experience without going completely off the grid will love having electricity and even Wi-fi available.
Other amenities include propane, firewood, a pool, RV sites with 50 amp hookups, BBQs, a playground, and ice. Unlike some other campsites that have to limit their seasonal availability, this KOA is open year-round.
Pros:
- Plenty of amenities
- Year-round operation
- RV sites available
Cons:
- Close to other campers
- Not the best for unplugging
4. Spruces Campground
Located in Big Cottonwood Canyon in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, the Spruces Campground is more modern than you’d probably expect. In addition to paved roads and walkways, this campsite also has drinking water and flush toilets provided. Each individual site has a fire ring, picnic tables, and grills.
Wildflowers abound in spring and in autumn the leaves are wonderfully vibrant. Firewood is available for purchase. Guests have a baseball field and volleyball court at their disposal. The only real drawbacks about the Spruces is that swimming and domestic animals are not permitted whatsoever.
Pros:
- Flush toilets & potable water
- Hiking, mountain biking & fishing
- Plenty of shade
Cons:
- No pets
- No swimming
5. Mount Timpanogos Campground
Close to Sundance and a wilderness area that shares its name, the Mount Timpanogos is a nice option for people who want easy access to the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest without having to drive in on a dirt road. It’s a favorite location for hikers, who have easy access to the 14-mile Aspen Grove Trail.
Flush toilets are available but drinking water is not. The alpine vistas are stunning in the park. Vehicles over 20 feet long can’t be accommodated at this campsite and may not be allowed on the Alpine Scenic Loop where it’s located. Reservations can be made with the Forest Service here.
Pros:
- Flush toilets
- Great hiking
- Paved roads
- Near Sundance
Cons:
- No potable water
- No hookups
6. Great Salt Lake Campground
The views of the Great Salt Lake are breathtaking from this campground. There are RV sites available with hookups, as well as picnic tables at each site. Make sure to come in the springtime before the bugs come out.
If you want to feel like you’re in a remote part of the backcountry, this isn’t the campground for you, but if you want to see the lake itself then it’s a great place. Make sure you grab the owners’ phone number so you can call them and get them to open the gate for you.
Pros:
- Lakeside overnight camping
- RV sites with hookups
- Clean & affordable
Cons:
- Bugs in the summer
- Potential light pollution
7. Ophir Creek Campground
Green grass and well-developed dirt roads await at Ophir Creek campground, which is located a little over an hour southwest of Salt Lake City. There are tons of activities you can enjoy at this location, including mountain biking, hiking, and fishing. Even though it’s so close to Salt Lake City, it feels like you’re nestled deep in the backcountry.
There is no running water or electricity here, although there are two outhouse-type buildings with toilets in them. In addition to the camping, you can also pass through the small town of Ophir, which was established in a gold rush and all but abandoned after.
Pros:
- Quiet
- Toilet facilities
- Picnic tables
- Plenty of available activities
Cons:
- No electricity or running water
8. Upper Narrows Campground
Another great campsite in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, the Upper Narrows are one of the rare sites on this list that can accommodate large groups of up to 50 people. It’s a great place for hikers or large families who want to camp together. There are other sites available for smaller groups.
Vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings are at each site. Easy access to Deseret Peak and the surrounding wilderness can be found via the nearby Stansbury Front and Medina Flats Trails.
Pros:
- Accommodates groups
- Great hiking
- Shaded
- No crowds
Cons:
- Gravel & dirt roads
- No water
9. Lincoln Beach
Leave Temple Square in Salt Lake City and you’ll reach the Lincoln Beach Campground in about an hour. It’s on the southern end of Utah Lake near Provo, which allows for tons of different water sports like canoeing, kayaking, fishing, boating, and swimming. There’s also a volleyball court, barbecue grills, and drinking water.
Leashed pets are allowed at Lincoln Beach. There’s a marina so boat owners can launch their own boats. Just next to this campsite is a wilderness area with tons of interesting wildlife that’s accessible by kayak or canoe. Lincoln Beach also has restroom facilities.
Pros:
- Perfect for many water sports
- Restrooms & drinking water
- Plenty of wildlife
Cons:
- Not the cleanest lake
10. Keetley Campground
On the western edge of the reservoir in Jordanelle State Park, Keetley Campground has great primitive camping setups for people who want to get some peace and quiet and aren’t afraid to rough it. There’s about a ¾ mile hike to most of the campsites and the carts they have to help you move gear are hard to find so pack light.
There’s a marina in the reservoir and a general store not far away. Don’t bet on any electricity or water hookups. Bring everything you’re going to need with you and make sure to follow the Leave No Trace guidelines to maintain the natural beauty of this spot.
Pros:
- Peaceful, quiet
- Located near water
- Marina
- Great views
Cons:
- Long (ish) hike to site
- No water or electricity
- Little shade
11. Albion Basin Campground
Alta, Salt Lake City’s tallest peak, is surrounded by hiking trails and rivers, not to mention some of the best skiing in the country in the winter months. The Albion Basin Campground is located in Little Cottonwood Canyon just past Alta, giving campers the perfect opportunity to experience Alta and surrounding attractions like Snowbird Resort and still camp out.
Hiking is one of the highlights here. The trail to Cecret Lake is a favorite for hikers. Fly fishing and rock climbing are also popular. Look for wild animals like moose, goats, and deer. Vault toilets are available, but no electricity.
Pros:
- Near Alta
- Fantastic hiking
- Great fly fishing
- Wildlife & wildflowers
Cons:
- Gravel & dirt roads
- No electricity
12. Redman Campground
Another great place for overnight camping in Big Cottonwood Canyon, this campground seems primitive because it has no hookups, but it does have a few flush toilets to eliminate possibly the worst part of roughing it. Fishing is the most popular activity here, but you can also take short hikes in the surrounding woods.
Drinking water is available at this campsite. It’s a great place to stay if you want to have a quiet stay with your fellow campers but don’t want to be completely in the middle of nowhere.
Pros:
- Drinking water
- Fishing
- Flush toilets
Cons:
- No electricity
- No hookups
13. Little Valley Country Store and Campground
Some people just aren’t cut out for primitive backcountry camping and the Little Valley Country Store has your back if you’re one of them. It might not be glamping in a cushy yurt, but their cabins are homey and have all the comforts of home. They also have RV sites with full hookups and regular tent sites.
There’s wifi on site as well as drinking water, flush toilets, and hot water. Campers can re-up on supplies at the country store and the 12-mile driving tour of Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is less than 15 minutes away.
Pros:
- Water adjacent
- Full amenities
- RV sites
- Furnished cabins available
Cons:
- Less isolated from other campers
- Not really roughing it

SLC is one of the most accessible ski destinations in the country.
14. Rishel Peak Campsite
If you manage to find it at all, you’ll find Rishel Peak just before the Nevada border on I-80 West. This is an absolute gem for people who really like to get out into the backcountry. It’s the closest overnight camping option to the Bonneville Salt Flats Special Recreation Management Area, which is unmissable.
The good news is this is land owned by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) so you don’t have to pay to camp. However, you do need to have a 4×4 vehicle and you absolutely must not drive on the salt when it’s wet or you’ll get stuck in the mush.
That being said, this is a fantastic way to see the Salt Flats. It’s just wilderness, so you’ll have to bring everything you need. But if you’re in SLC and you like backcountry camping, this should be at the top of your list.
Pros:
- Unbeatable natural beauty
- Salt Flat-adjacent camping
- Free
Cons:
- No signs or facilities
- 4×4 vehicle required
- Windy at night
15. Stansbury Island Campground
Stansbury Island is the second-largest in the Great Salt Lake – although it’s not technically an island at all since a dirt road connects it to the mainland. You can camp here and rarely ever see another person. There’s a beautiful view of the lake and there’s plenty of space for an RV.
You might find some nice spots around the 7-mile marker and there are some port-a-potties around but don’t expect much in the way of facilities. This is a BLM site so it won’t cost you anything to stay here. However, unless you’re staying for a few nights then the trek out may not be worth it.
Pros:
- Free
- Great Salt Lake views
- Private & quiet
Cons:
- Hard to reach
- No signs
16. Vernon Reservoir Campground
A little over an hour away from Salt Lake City you’ll find Vernon, Utah. Follow a 9-mile dirt road to the reservoir and you’ll find a small bare-bones campground with stunning mountain views and a pristine body of water. Most people come here to lake fish, but taking a stroll around the grounds or just hanging out by a campfire is just as much fun.
Be warned that there are no facilities of any kind here beyond a few vault toilets.
Pros:
- Private, sparsely visited
- Mountain & reservoir views
- Plenty of space
Cons:
- No facilities
17. Timpooneke Campground
For camping with a few more amenities and tons of outdoor activities, try Timpooneke Campground in the Mt. Timpanogos Wilderness. Firewood, grills, and picnic tables are all there for enjoyable meals with your fellow campers. Hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife watching are some of the main activities here.
Bring all the water you’ll need since there isn’t any available at Timpooneke. You could also try to bring a water pump if you can camp near a creek, but better safe than sorry.
Pros:
- Wildlife & wildflowers
- Plenty of activities
- Picnic amenities
- Flush toilets
Cons:
- No water available
18. Anderson Cove Campground
45 minutes north of SLC on Pineview Reservoir sits Anderson Cove, one of the best campgrounds in the area for people who want to swim. There’s a day-use beach with a volleyball court and a marina for people who enjoy boating. The lawns are mowed and there’s a level of security here that isn’t common at most other campgrounds.
There’s also a convenience store about a ½ mile from the campground. A quiet hour rule is in place between 10 PM and 6 AM and ATVs are banned so you can be sure to have a restful stay.
Pros:
- Swimming allowed
- Day-use beach with volleyball court
- Convenience store
- Drinking water & vault toilets
Cons:
- No hookups
19. Spanish Oaks Campground
This campground and the nearby RV park are great for families. Spanish Oaks has restrooms, picnic tables, and a playground. Most of the surrounding grass is mowed so everyone can play outdoors barefoot if they want.
There’s plenty of gorgeous nature around and since the campground is more manicured you can settle in quickly and enjoy time with your fellow campers. The Spanish Oaks Reservoir is a great place for swimming and for fishing in a few spots.
Pros:
- Easy access to nature
- Flush restrooms
- Grills & picnic tables
- Swimming
- Playground
Cons:
- Less private than other campgrounds
20. Wendover KOA
Just across the border in Nevada, this KOA is perfect for people who want that westward drive across the Salt Flats but don’t want a primitive campsite in the middle of nowhere. There are pull-through RV sites with hookups and even a swimming pool that’s open in the warmer months.
Propane and firewood are available for sale. There’s also a volleyball court, mail services, and camping cabins if you prefer not to use a tent. If you need a place to stay while you’re on the road exploring the rest of the wild west, this KOA will definitely do the trick. However, you’ll be within walking distance of a McDonald’s so don’t expect any wilderness points.
Pros:
- Wifi & electricity on-site
- RV sites
- Pool & volleyball court
- Close to Salt Flats
- Tons of amenities
Cons:
- More urban surroundings
Final Verdict:
The Albion Basin Campground is the best for most campers in the Salt Lake City area. It has all the amenities and some of the best hiking in that part of Utah, plus there’s easy access to the site itself. You can walk around and see a bit more of the area around Salt Lake City’s tallest mountain. If you’re really trying to rough it and see the Salt Flats, then Rishel Peak is the most unique SLC site. But for everyone else, Albion Basin is the best.
Bonus tip: If you have time to go a bit further from SLC, check out Dinosaur National Monument!
Outdoor Blog
Living Life on the Edge: Embracing Adrenaline-Fueled Moments

Life is an adventure, a journey filled with countless opportunities for thrill and excitement. For some, the idea of living life on the edge, embracing adrenaline-fueled moments, is an exhilarating concept that fuels their passion for adventure. This article delves into the world of adrenaline-chasing, highlighting the benefits and experiences of such a lifestyle.
Kitesurfing: Riding the waves of excitement
The first step to living on the edge is stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new. Kitesurfing, a water sport combining wakeboarding, windsurfing, and paragliding elements, is an excellent example of an adrenaline-fueled activity. The activity entails utilizing a sizable maneuverable kite to capture the force of the wind, enabling the rider to traverse the water on a board specifically designed for kiteboarding. There is nothing quite like the exhilaration of soaring through the air, feeling the breeze caress your cheeks, and mastering the art of maneuvering a kite. Kitesurfing is a remarkable adventure that captures the spirit of embracing excitement and pushing boundaries.
The psychological thrill
In addition to the excitement of the tangible experience, embracing a daring lifestyle offers a mental rush that is just as stimulating. Engaging in these activities provides an exhilarating experience that stimulates the production of endorphins, the body’s innate pain relievers. This results in a profound sense of joy and an overwhelming feeling of invulnerability. The thrill of this frenzy can become habit-forming, compelling thrill-seekers to pursue fresh and increasingly demanding adventures consistently.
The benefits of embracing the edge
Embracing a daring lifestyle goes beyond pursuing excitement; it presents many advantages. Participating in thrilling adventures can enhance physical well-being, as numerous pursuits demand robustness, stamina, and skill. Furthermore, they have the potential to enhance one’s emotional well-being by offering a means to alleviate tension and unease. Engaging in these activities demands concentration, which can effectively alleviate mental clutter, resulting in a serene state once the surge of excitement diminishes.
The balance of risk and reward
While living life on the edge can be exhilarating, it’s important to remember the balance of risk and reward. Adrenaline-fueled activities often involve a certain level of risk, and it’s essential to approach them with a healthy respect for safety. Proper training, equipment, and precautions can help mitigate these risks, allowing you to enjoy the thrill without unnecessary danger.
Always research your activities and location. This understanding can help you decide if the risk is acceptable and if you have the skills and equipment. Check and maintain your gear, and never sacrifice safety. Finally, embracing adventure with a responsible and safety-conscious mentality lets you enjoy high-risk activities without risking injury.
Living life on the edge embracing adrenaline-fueled moments, is a lifestyle choice that offers a unique blend of thrill, excitement, and personal growth. Whether kitesurfing across the waves, scaling a mountain, or skydiving from a plane, these activities provide an escape from the mundane, a chance to challenge oneself, and an opportunity to experience life at its most vibrant. So, step out of your comfort zone, embrace the adrenaline, and start living on the edge. After all, life is not meant to be lived in the slow lane; rather, it’s about experiencing every thrilling moment it offers.
Outdoor Blog
Renewable Energy Farms That Make Beautiful Hiking Trails

Wind farms and solar panels are not just alternative means to get our natural resources. They have now combined with another industry and are making some unexpected news.
The tourism industry has marked renewable energy farms as hiking trails, and hikers are here for it. You can read more about renewable energy sites. Although you might not think of hiking on a wind farm as beautiful as hiking along a famous mountain trail, you might just be in for a surprise.
Let’s discuss the benefits that renewable energy farms have as hiking trails.
Why are Renewable Energy Farms Important?
Renewable energy farms are important for the future of civilization. These farms provide an alternative to our natural resources, such as wind and energy.
The most important benefit of renewable energy is that it doesn’t produce any greenhouse emissions and reduces the air pollution other traditional processes create when providing natural resources.
These farms also allow for the creation of the country’s own resources without having to import natural resources from another country and save their limited natural resources.
Here are some of the reasons why energy farms are important:
- Allows for sustainable rural development
This will allow landowners to make an extra income by generating energy.
- Test new technologies
Providing the opportunity to test technologies to find new ways to create renewable energy.
- Improving the effect of climate change
Climate change has left the environment filled with toxic pollutants, which has led people to become sick and breathe in harmful air.
Renewable energy can change this by lessening the number of pollutants that are released into the atmosphere and providing much safer, cleaner, breathable air.
- This leads to job creation
Job creation within the renewable energy farms industry is plentiful as there is a need for skilled workers such as construction, maintenance and manufacturing to build the necessary infrastructure that is needed to generate these wind and solar farms.
The Benefits of Renewable Energy Farms As Hiking Trails
Renewable energy farms have many benefits for both the environment and people who love spending their time outdoors.
Embracing the Use of Green Technology
Since wind farms and solar plants are located in areas that are unpopulated, they make for great hiking trails.
By visiting these sites, people get to experience green technology, and by integrating them into recreational spaces, people can visit these sites and embrace green technology by seeing how they work and the positive effects that it has on the environment.
The more people embrace the shift to green technology, the easier it will be to use it.
Energy Farms Offer A Unique Experience For Visitors
Visiting energy farms means you will have a unique experience while there. You will get to see how these large devices work and how they replace the basic resources needed to survive.
Tours can give visitors more information on the background of the construction of devices, their environmental impact and why it is important for us to switch to sustainable energy resources.
Visitors Get to Enjoy Natural Beauty
The sites for these renewable energy farms are often located in areas that are surrounded by natural beauty, such as large landscapes.
Natural pathways can be used as hiking trails without the need for carving out new roads and damaging the ecosystem.
Visitors can even discover native plant life and explore the natural wonders that are located at these energy farms, as they are often placed where no infrastructure has been built on the property before.
Providing Health and Wellness Benefits
Hiking has many health benefits, such as reducing stress, improving fitness, and helping aid mental well-being.
Energy Farms have Community Benefits and Increase the Economy
These hiking trails can help boost economic sales, bringing tourists to the community. This will give the local people the opportunity to expand their businesses.
This can also help increase employment within the community as these sites will be visited frequently and lead to new business openings to cater to tourists.
Conclusion
Renewable energy farms greatly benefit both the economy and the people who want to spend their time on them. These farms are especially important for transitioning from natural resources to newer energy resource power plants.
From learning how to embrace green technology to getting health and wellness benefits to enjoying nature’s natural beauty and finding job opportunities within the market.
Spending time on these renewable energy farms can be educational and recreational for anyone who visits them. To find more renewable energy farm hiking trails, you can visit https://outsidebozeman.com.
Outdoor Blog
Top Recommendations for RV Window Maintenance

Much like other sections of your RV, the windows sometimes need a bit of maintenance. It is essential to clean off dirt and insect smudges and also make sure they are adequately sealed to avoid leaks and water harm.
If you have a broken RV window, then you may want to consult Van Isle Glass. However, if you wish to know more about simple measures to ensure your RV windows stay spotless and secure, you are in the right spot! Continue reading below.
Polish Your Windshield Using Ultra-Fine #0000 Steel Wool
Numerous RV enthusiasts have praised the use of the finest grade of steel wool #0000 for removing stubborn bugs and water marks from their windshields. Before proceeding, first test the #0000 steel wool on a small portion of your windshield. Apply it with light, circular motions. Sweep away any remaining steel wool bits with a microfiber towel. Next, spritz the surface with a residue-free glass cleaner and wipe it down with a separate cloth.
Steel wool is also great when used with a spray lubricant for cleaning tires, maintaining grills, starting campfires, and repelling mice. A gentler alternative is cleansing dish pads. These pads are versatile, suitable for cleaning various materials such as wood, porcelain, stainless steel, chrome, painted areas, and glass.
Apply a Sealant to Avoid Leaks
Silicone sealant is effective in stopping leaks in areas like your windshield, RV windows, sunroof, and vents. It penetrates tiny gaps, creating a robust waterproof barrier. Ensure the surfaces are clean before application and do not have old caulk, dirt, oil, and other residues.
Furthermore, clear away any standing water on windows to prevent hard water stains. Make sure the inside of your windows stay dry to avoid condensation and mold build-up. If there is significant condensation on your windows, consider getting a small dehumidifier.
Use Tools to Access Difficult Regions
Using cleaners with long handles can prevent you from straining to clean those distant parts of your windshield. Windshield cleaning tools often feature a lengthy, swiveling triangular head that is ideal for getting into corners and spots difficult to access manually.
Opt for a Residue-Free Glass Cleaner
A high-quality glass cleaner will maintain the clarity of your windows and windshield. A great glass cleaner performs well on both standard and tinted windows, making sure to remove streaks or leftover residue. Another option is a natural concoction of half vinegar and half water, with a touch of lemon essential oil.
Steer Clear of Cleaning RV Windows in Bright Sunlight
A sunny afternoon may feel perfect for washing your RV windows, but the warmth can speed up the drying of the cleaner, resulting in streaks or spots. It is advisable to tackle your RV window cleaning during early morning, late evening, or when stationed in a shaded area for the best outcome.
Endnote
Keeping your RV windows clean and clear is not only about aesthetics, but is also vital for safety. The subtleties in cleaning, like steering clear of the sun and using the appropriate products, play a key role. Adhering to these guidelines will help you maintain a pristine view during your various journeys.
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