East Canyon State Park
Quick Facts
Why East Canyon & the Wasatch Mountains
East Canyon State Park sits at 5,700 feet in the Wasatch Mountains, about 35 minutes northeast of Salt Lake City, centered on a 680-acre reservoir surrounded by low mountains. The park holds real Western history — the adjacent Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail passes right by, once traveled by the Donner-Reed party, Mormon pioneers, and Pony Express riders on their journeys across the country.
The park offers a genuine range of accommodations, from primitive tent sites to Conestoga wagons and yurts, plus an International Dark Sky certification that makes for real stargazing right from camp.
What Makes It Special
- Location: Morgan, about 35 minutes from Salt Lake City
- Setting: Mountain reservoir, certified International Dark Sky Park
- Site type: Campground plus cabins, yurts, and Conestoga wagons
- Amenities: Lakefront cabins and campsites, boat/jet ski access, showers, close to Salt Lake City
- Recreation: Water activities and fishing
Pro Tips for Booking
Plan for a short walk to cabin bathrooms. They’re not en-suite, so factor that into your packing and nighttime routine.
Pack shade. Reviewers note shade is limited in summer — bring a canopy or umbrella if you’ll be out during the day.
Stay up for stargazing. The park’s Dark Sky certification means genuinely excellent night skies right from your campsite.
What to Do Around Here
- Boating and jet skiing on the 680-acre reservoir
- Fishing throughout the lake
- The Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail, right beside the park
- Stargazing under a certified International Dark Sky
- Wildlife viewing, including mule deer, elk, and bald eagles
