This Utah Mountain State Park Is Perfect For A Camping Getaway With Family-Friendly Trails

Are you looking for the perfect nature escape that will recharge you and your family? Wasatch Mountain State Park in Utah should be at the top of your list. Situated in the Heber Valley and surrounded by the towering Wasatch Range, this state park is one of Utah's hidden gems. Unlike other famous destinations in Utah like Bryce Canyon, Wasatch Mountain is less crowded with beautiful landscapes, pine forests, and rolling meadows. It's no wonder it is often considered one of the most beautiful places in America's state and national parks, especially for families.

Wasatch Mountain State Park is located near Midway, Utah, just 50 miles southeast of Salt Lake City. If you are flying in, you will land at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), about a one-hour drive to the state park. If you are in Provo, you can get to the park via US-189 North in under an hour. Established in 1961, Wasatch Mountain State Park spans over 23,000 acres, making it one of Utah's largest state parks. The area was home to the Timpanogos tribe and later became the central location for miners in the 19th century. With its diverse habitats for wildlife and endless opportunities for outdoor excursions, Wasatch is preserved as a year-round destination for hiking, camping, and golfing.

A call out to seasoned trailblazers and campers! Set up camp at Wasatch Mountain State Park and experience Utah's pristine outdoors. You will have access to well-maintained campgrounds with tents and RV sites complemented with a beautiful mountain scenery. You and your whole family can stay in the cozy lodges and enjoy the park's peaceful setting. Choose from the multiple campsites with varying facilities and camping fees ranging from $40 to $75, and your pet can tag along for the adventure. Please note that Utah state parks have campfire restrictions, which means open flames are limited. You should check the current fire rules before you plan your trip. Also, keep in mind that each reservation includes space for one vehicle only, and you will pay an additional nightly fee for an extra vehicle.

That said, this western state park is also the perfect destination for other thrilling outdoor adventures no matter the season. During the warmer months, hiking and biking are popular excursions in the area. Novices in the game can take on the Pine Creek Nature Trail. It is a short, family-friendly hiking trail with interpretive signs and shaded spots for rest — perfect for children. The Dutch Hollow Trail System, on the other hand, is a popular trail with loops through fields and hills, giving you a challenging but fulfilling trail. If golfing is your thing, there are two 18-hole golf courses in the park. The Mountain Course is known for its challenging elevation changes, while the Lake Course provides a relaxed golfing experience that's better for families. Once winter rolls in, it is time to break out the skis, snowshoes, and snowmobiles. Wasatch Mountain State Park is home to skiing trails, and the nearby Soldier Hollow is popular for hosting events in the 2002 Winter Olympics.

The fun does not end at the park. Whether it is swimming, historic sites, more trails, or scuba diving, there are plenty of other things to do and enjoy in the nearby towns. A must-visit destination near the park is Heber City, about 6 miles southeast of the park. You and your family will get a chance to ride the historic Heber Valley Railroad through the beautiful countryside. Also, less than 10 minutes from Wasatch Mountain State Park is the resort town of Midway. Here, you can marvel at the Swiss-inspired architecture or go swimming and scuba diving in the Homestead crater.

If you visit Wasatch in winter, plan a trip to Park City for thrilling winter adventures like skiing and snowboarding. For more outdoor adventures, plan a day trip to Canyonlands National Park. About 230 miles southeast of Wasatch Mountain State Park, this underrated park is just as gorgeous as Zion National Park but way less crowded. You will fall in love with the desert landscapes, rock formations, and hiking trails.