State Parks near Salt Lake City

Utah's national parks feature some of the most astonishing landscapes in the world. But other lands in Utah promise just as much allure, including state parks, and national monuments and recreations areas. It's safe to call these our hidden gems. And wherever you visit, make sure you're prepared to keep these lands Forever Mighty. 

There's no shortage of activities to keep you busy in Utah's state parks. Boating, fishing, golf, off-highway vehicle recreation, hiking, dark sky viewing and mountain biking are just some of the options available. Stopping by for the day? Simplify your visit by purchasing a day-use pass online before you go – digital Utah State Parks passes are available at parkspass.utah.gov. Passes are good for the day of purchase only and do not include camping access. And when you recreate, remember to do so responsibly:

  • Plan to pack out your own trash. 
  • Come prepared with a disposable toilet system in the event restrooms are unavailable. Review the tips or watch the video.
  • Extinguish campfires completely, and practice fire safety. 
  • The weather can change quickly on public lands. If rain is in the forecast do not enter any slot canyons.
  • Bring more water than you think you'll need.
  • Travel on designated motorized routes and trails. Do not create new trails with your car or your feet. 
  • Ensure you have a back-up campground during busy season. If you have to disperse camp, always choose existing sites. 
  • Let someone know your itinerary and the time you expect to return. Know the information for search and rescue, and bring a spot device. Look for others you can help. 

Camping and Overnight Options

From the High Uintas to the southern red rocks, you'll find camping in most Utah State Parks. Overnight options range from RV and tent sites to cabins, teepees, yurts, hammocks and covered wagons. Campgrounds often reach capacity, so advance reservations are recommended.

  • State Parks near Salt Lake City

2022

1. This is the Place Heritage Park

532

State Parks

East Bench

Open now

State Parks near Salt Lake City

By N6810HYamyb

The ride goes through the Wasatch Mountain foothills with spectacular views of the city, the Great Salt Lake and the...

  • State Parks near Salt Lake City

2. Great Salt Lake State Park

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State Parks

State Parks near Salt Lake City

By kindtraveler2016

A short 15 minute drive from Salt Lake City, if you are visiting and haven't seen a huge salt lake before, I recommen...

Permits may be obtained at the Visitor Center or Entrance Station for a fee of $1.00. You may also print the form here and bring it with you.  

Metal Detecting is by permit only. Permits may be obtained at the Visitor Center or Entrance Station for a fee of $1.00. 

Boat Tours of the lake provided by Exclusive Excursions.  Tour Season has ENDED. Click this link for more info on Exclusive Excursions

Field Trip Information. Field trips must be approved by the Park, if inquiring about a Field Trip to the Great Salt Lake State Park please email [email protected]

Black Rock Access

A Trailhead has been added to access Black Rock. It is a little over 1/4 mile of a walk from where the trailhead begins to Black Rock. You can also enter the park and walk from Sunset Beach to Black Rock for ~1 mile of a walk

If you have further questions, please see Park Staff at the Visitor Center.

View our park map and brochure

This State Park provides boat slips, public viewpoints of Great Salt Lake, sail and motorboat access, and a search and rescue operations center. The lake, which is two to seven times saltier than the ocean, is also a popular destination for bird watching as it is a major stop for millions of migratory birds.

For current conditions out on the lake, visit our partner website at gslmarina.com

The Campground is open year-round and offers RV sites that can accommodate up to a 40′ RV. Campsites have water and electricity (AC110, 30amp, and 50amp), also available all year.  There is also an RV dump station. There are Primitive Beach Tent Only sites. No hookups or vehicle access on the beach. Primitive sites have an established Fire Pit. To reserve a spot, contact Reserve America at 1-800-322-3770, or visit their website at www.reserveamerica.com

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1. Bear Lake State Park. Bear Lake State Park is located on the Utah/Idaho border with the gorgeous lake sharing land in both states. The lake is known for its famous turquoise-blue waters (sometimes called the Caribbean of the Rockies), its huge 109-mile circumference, and a myth similar to the Loch Ness Monster.