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East Canyon
Overview
Tucked away in the mountains of Morgan County, East Canyon State Park offers a serene escape centered around a sprawling 685-acre reservoir. This destination is deeply rooted in American history, as it sits along the Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail and the path once taken by the ill-fated Donner-Reed Party. Today, the park serves as a popular retreat for RVers looking to combine outdoor recreation with a quiet, high-altitude atmosphere. Whether you are coming for the water or the heritage, the park provides a rugged yet accessible experience in the heart of Utah’s wilderness.
Location & Surroundings
Located roughly 45 minutes from Salt Lake City, East Canyon feels significantly more remote than its proximity to the city suggests. The park is situated at an elevation of over 6,000 feet, surrounded by rolling hills and limestone cliffs that create a dramatic backdrop for the reservoir. The drive into the park via Highway 65 or Highway 66 offers stunning mountain vistas, particularly during the autumn months when the scrub oak and maples change color. Visitors should be prepared for typical mountain weather, including cool evenings even during the peak of summer.
Amenities & Park Features
The park features multiple camping areas, with the Big Rock Campground serving as the primary choice for RV travelers. The facility provides several essential features for a comfortable mountain stay:
- Full and partial hookup sites for various RV sizes.
- A modern four-lane boat ramp for easy reservoir access.
- Clean restroom facilities and hot showers.
- A dump station located near the park entrance.
For those traveling without their own gear, the park also offers unique lodging options like yurts and cabins. A seasonal concessionaire provides basic supplies, snacks, and boat rentals, ensuring visitors have everything they need for a comfortable stay on the water.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Water-based recreation is the main draw here, with the reservoir providing excellent opportunities for boating, jet skiing, and paddleboarding. Anglers frequent the waters for rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, and kokanee salmon. Beyond the shoreline, hikers and history enthusiasts can explore segments of the historic trails that pass through the area. A short drive into the town of Morgan offers a look at rural Utah life, while the nearby Echo State Park and the luxury shops of Park City provide contrasting day-trip options for those staying for an extended period.
Who This Park Is Best For
East Canyon is an ideal destination for boating enthusiasts and families who enjoy spending their days on the water and their nights under star-filled skies. It appeals to history buffs who want to camp where pioneers once trekked, as well as RVers seeking a cooler mountain climate to escape the summer heat of the valley. While it offers modern hookups, the vibe remains decidedly natural and rustic, making it a perfect fit for travelers who prefer quiet evenings and outdoor activities over commercial resort amenities.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
David Techmeyer
East Canyon State park is a real nice place to relax on a hot summer day. It's got a great picnic area and beach, with a breaker wall and steps right into the water. Later in the summer and the water gets lower, the beach just gets bigger and bigger. Its a great place place to paddleboard or motorboat. Dogs allowed!
Tea Johnson
This is one of my favorite spots to go paddle boarding! My dog can come, the water isn’t choppy for 40 boats, and the drive is BEAUTIFUL. It’s my go-to spot for friends and family. ~40 minutes from SLC or Park City
Armando Aguinaga
There is paid parking on the north end for $10 and south ends of the water for idk how much. There is free parking else where but you're gonna have to hike down a small hill to get to the water. Definitely something I wouldn't want an elderly person attempting. I like this body of water. Its refreshing and the perfect temperature.
Z Harris
Stayed at the state park back in May of 2025. Stayed in one of their cabins by the lake. It was fine. It was pretty private. It was another cabin about 20 yards away from us. Parking was pretty close for the cabins. There were no bathrooms immediately near the cabins you had to go about 50 yards across the paved parking lot to get to the flushing bathrooms. The marina is between you and the bathroom. It has been recently opened for the year so it wasn't too busy. They look to have A lot of day use areas. They also have a fair number of regular campgrounds. With it being just outside of Morgan City it's not too far from the Wasatch front to go on weekend getaway.
Jared Reynolds
Beautiful and scenic views from all around the campgrounds! Walking distance to the reservoir. Water and Electric Hookups Only. No Sewer. Covered picnic table and Firepits with plenty of space between campsites.