Antelope Island State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Antelope Island State Park covers the entire area of Antelope Island, located within the Great Salt Lake in Utah. It is the largest of the ten islands in this region and was made a state park in 1981, now attracting an average of 300,000 visitors annually. Antelope Island is home to a variety of landscapes, including beaches along the island’s shoreline, plains, and mountains. This makes it the perfect place for recreational activities such as camping, hiking, biking, horse riding, swimming, boating, and more.
A large portion of the state park is covered by dry, native grassland, making it the perfect habitat for species such as bison, pronghorn, sheep, porcupine, badger, coyote, bobcat, mule deer, and millions of waterfowl. There are no permanent human inhabitants on the island and conditions are usually quite dry, particularly in summer when the average daytime temperature can reach as high as 82°F. If you’re planning a trip to Antelope Island State Park, you’ll certainly want to come prepared. Keep reading to find out all there is to know about camping, in-park activities, how to get here, and more.
Spring 25-61 F
Summer 49-82 F
Fall 23-69 F
Winter 12-34 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Antelope Island State Park
If you’re thinking about staying in or near Antelope Island State Park, why not do so in an RV? Unlike tents, RVs provide you with a soft, comfortable bed, as well as your own private bathroom and kitchen. If you don’t own an RV, you can rent an RV fromRVshare.com to suit your budget or needs. All rentals come with nationwide insurance, 24/7 roadside assistance, and a world-class team dedicated to helping you succeed.
There are three campgrounds within the state park, two of which offer RV campsites, however, no hookups are available. The campgrounds have vault toilets and other amenities such as drinking water, showers, and a restaurant are available at nearby locations within the park.
There are also plenty of highly rated campgrounds located outside of the state park, including the following:
Cherry Hill
Cherry Hill is one of the most popular campgrounds within the local area, offering 140 campsites nestled among 400 trees. It’s also home to a water park, mini-golf, jungle maze, restaurants, shops, and more. The campsites can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet and feature 30 – 50 amp sites. Daily rates range from $38 - $51.
Water hookup: yes
Electrical hookup: yes
Sewer hookup: yes
Wifi: yes
Pet-friendly: yes
Other amenities: restrooms, showers, camp store, gift shop, water park, playground, mini-golf, jungle maze, restaurants / cafes, pavilions, propane grill rentals.
Salt Lake City KOA
Just an hour’s drive from the state park isSalt Lake City KOA, which provides shady, spacious campsites for both tents and RVs. It’s just 14 blocks from downtown Salt Lake City, meaning you’re never far from the region’s most exciting attractions.
Water hookup: yes
Electrical hookup: yes
Sewer hookup: yes
Wifi: yes
Pet-friendly: yes
Other amenities: laundry facilities, picnic tables, tours, basketball court, outdoor games, playground, on-site café / restaurant, dog walk area, pet wash, dump station, camp store, cable TV, dog park, swimming pool, hot tub / sauna, pavilion, camp kitchen.
Pony Express RV Resort & Campground
Another popular campground within the area is thePony Express RV Resort & Campground, which offers RV sites, Airstream trailer rentals, and cabin rentals. It’s located minutes away from the Great Salt Lake and downtown Salt Lake City and provides a wide range of amenities to help you and your family have a comfortable stay.
Water hookup: yes
Electrical hookup: yes
Sewer hookup: yes
Wifi: yes
Pet-friendly: yes
Other amenities: heated swimming pool, picnic tables, BBQ grills, restrooms, showers, convenience store, games room, TV lounge, laundry facilities, playground, horseshoe pits.
What to Do at
Antelope Island State Park
Inside Antelope Island State Park
Whether you’re hoping to enjoy hiking, biking, or horse riding the state park’s famous trails, swimming, boating or more – there’s certainly something for every type of traveler at Antelope Island.
Hiking : The state park is home to anumber of trails ranging from easy to difficult. The most popular of these is theFray Peak trail, which takes visitors to the highest point on Antelope Island, providing spectacular views of the island, Great Salt Lake, and the Wasatch Mountains. It’s a 7-mile round trip.
Biking : There are several riding options within the state park and the easiest and most popular route is the White Rock Bay loop. Other rides include Split Rock Bay, Elephant Head, East Side, and Lakeside.
Horseback riding : The state park’s trails are also available to those on horseback and is a great way to experience the island. The exclusive provider of horseback rides within the state park isR & G Horse and Wagon, with rates starting at $55 per person.
Swimming : Visitors also enjoy swimming in Great Salt Lake's salty water, which is several times saltier than the ocean. Because it is so salty, the water is extra buoyant, making people float on its surface.
Boating : A marina is available for those using sailboats, powerboats, and kayaks. Visitors must keep in mind that the Great Salt Lake’s high salt content can be corrosive to metal vessels. It’s recommended engines are flushed out when leaving the lake and boat hulls and trailers should be rinsed before hitting the road.
Outside Antelope Island State Park
If you thought the park has lots on offer, then you’re going to be delighted by just how many experiences are available to you outside of Antelope Island, including stunning sightseeing opportunities, award-winning restaurants, and more.
Restaurants
Crown Burgers
This local fast-food chain is famous for its pastrami-topped burgers, but also serves other options such as gyros, souvlaki, burrito, sandwiches, and so much more. The first restaurant opened in 1978 and nowCrown Burgers remains a favorite throughout Salt Lake valley.
Type: Burgers / fast food
Location: Layton, UT
Black Bear Diner
Black Bear Diner is a well-known chain serving all-day American comfort food and desserts in a woodsy setting. Here, you can expect decent portions at great prices, along with high-quality service and a family-friendly atmosphere. The pancakes are a favorite!
Type: Diner
Location: Layton, UT
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews
If you’re craving some American comfort food during your state park stay, thenRed Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews is another recommendation from locals. Here, you can enjoy gourmet burgers with a wide range of shakes, smoothies, and bar favorites.
Type: Burger joint
Location: Layton, UT
Sightseeing
Lagoon Amusement Park
Perhaps the most popular and famous attraction outside of the state park is theLagoon Amusement Park, which offers rides, events, shows, a waterpark, pioneer village, and so much more. Tickets range from $46.95 - $64.95 per person.
Location: Farmington, UT
Hogle Zoo
Hogle Zoo covers 42 acres and is home to over 800 species of animals, tropical gardens, a train, and carousel. With daily programs, Up-close Wildlife Connections, attractions, and unique dining and shopping, a day at the Hogle Zoo has something for everyone. Admission ranges from $12.95 -$18.95.
Location: Salt Lake City, UT
Temple Square
Temple Square offers 35 acres of historic enchantment in the heart of Salt Lake City. Here, you’ll find a range of must-visit places, including the Tabernacle, Church History Museum, Salt Lake Temple, Joseph Smith Memorial Building, Brigham Young Historic Park, and more.
Location: Salt Lake City, UT
How to Get to
Antelope Island State Park
The state park is located 41 miles north of Salt Lake City. Take Exit 332 off Interstate 15, then drive west on Antelope Drive for 7 miles to the park entrance, then another 7 miles across a narrow causeway to the island.
Entering Antelope Island State Park
Antelope Island State Park Per vehicle : $10.0
Antelope Island State Park Seniors : $5.0
Antelope Island State Park Pedestrians : $3.0
We’re very excited that you’re planning a trip to Antelope Island State Park. Once you’ve finished exploring all that the park has to offer, there are also some incredible opportunities waiting for you outside of its gates! During or after your stay, we encourage you to tag us in any of your social media posts, or why not share your photos and experience with us at [email protected]? We may even feature your story on our blog or social media channels. Happy camping!
Frequently Asked Questions About Antelope Island State Park
The best time to visit Antelope Island State Park is in the summer. The temperatures are warm, and the days are long. The views of the Great Salt Lake and the surrounding mountains are beautiful during this time of year.
The climate of Antelope Island State Park is generally arid with low humidity levels. The summers are warm, and the winters are cold. The average high temperature in July is about 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average low temperature in January is about 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
The park is home to bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, coyotes, mule deer, and American bison. The best time to see wildlife is during the early morning and evening hours. There is also a large variety of birds like bald eagles, ospreys, and peregrine falcons.
Yes, there are several designated RV camping spots in the park. These spots have hookups for water and electricity. There is also a dump station available for RVs.
Yes, you must reserve a camping spot at Antelope Island State Park in advance. The cost is $30 per night for a site with hookups and $20 for a dry camping spot.