Keetley Point Campground

For Utahns looking to get away from the typical drive-up campground experience, Keetley Point Campground at Jordanelle State Park offers a unique, semi-primitive retreat. This is not your average camping spot; it’s a hike-in campground that requires a bit more effort, but the reward is a tranquil, more secluded experience. Located on a peninsula in the Jordanelle Reservoir, it provides a sense of escape and a chance to truly immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. This campground is a great option for those who want a blend of rustic charm with the convenience of some essential park amenities.

The unique nature of Keetley Point as a hike-in site means it's a bit more peaceful than other campgrounds in the area. It’s a place where you can feel connected to the landscape, whether you're watching the sunset over the water or listening to the sounds of nature. As a recent update from a camp host notes, there have been some changes to the campground's operation, particularly with the availability of wagons for hauling gear. It is important for campers to be aware of this and "pack light," as they will have to carry their belongings to the sites. This detail highlights the semi-primitive nature of the campground and the kind of preparation needed to make the most of your trip.

While Keetley Point offers a rustic feel, it is situated within the expansive Jordanelle State Park, which provides a full range of modern recreational opportunities. The park includes a marina, boat ramps, and a repair shop, making it a hub for water sports enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy boating, paddleboarding, or fishing, the reservoir provides a stunning backdrop for all your activities. This blend of a semi-primitive camping experience with access to a wide array of park amenities makes Keetley Point a versatile destination. It allows you to enjoy the tranquility of your campsite while having the option to engage in more active, water-based fun just a short distance away.

Recent developments around the area, including a multi-townhome development, have brought some changes to the landscape and the overall experience, as noted in a customer review. This information is crucial for visitors who are expecting a pristine, undeveloped environment. The review states that there is noise and dust due to the construction, particularly on the west side of the campground. However, the review also offers a helpful tip: "If you keep your back to the west you can still enjoy the camp loop." This practical advice from a local user helps set proper expectations and allows campers to make an informed decision on which sites to choose. The fact that the sites on the waterside are reservable offers a strategic option for those seeking the best experience.

Location and Accessibility

Keetley Point Campground is located in Jordanelle State Park, with its address being UT-319, Heber City, UT 84032, USA. Its proximity to Heber City and Park City makes it a convenient escape for many Utah residents. The campground is easily accessible via major highways, with the park entrance located just off the road. As a hike-in campground, access to the individual sites is different from a typical drive-up site. Visitors must park at a trailhead and walk to their campsite. A customer review provides a helpful tip regarding this walk, advising to "take the wagons around the longer way to save yourself the effort" and to avoid a steep gully. It is worth noting, however, that another recent update from a camp host states that wagons are no longer provided, so campers should be prepared to carry their gear.

The campground provides a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, which is a key feature for ensuring accessibility for all visitors. This is a significant consideration for many families and groups. The semi-primitive, hike-in nature of the campground, combined with the presence of some modern amenities, creates a unique balance. While the walk-in aspect requires more effort, it contributes to the peaceful, secluded atmosphere that makes Keetley Point so appealing. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, pack efficiently, and follow the guidelines for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Services Offered

• Tent Sites: The campground is primarily designed for tent camping. The sites offer a designated space to set up tents, with some sites on top having elevated tent pads. A real customer review noted that the tent areas in some sites are "fairly small" but can accommodate the two-tent limit per site.

• Picnic Tables: Every site is equipped with a concrete pad that includes a picnic table and a fire pit with a grill. These amenities are a great convenience, providing a sturdy surface for cooking and dining.

• Public Restroom: The campground offers public restrooms. A real customer review mentioned "bathrooms with flush toilets as well as 2 porta-potties in the lower section," which indicates the variety and availability of facilities.

• Public Shower: The park provides public showers for visitors, a significant comfort for those staying for multiple nights. This amenity allows campers to refresh and clean up after a day of activities.

• Running Water: Running water is available, which is essential for drinking, cooking, and sanitation. This amenity bridges the gap between a truly primitive camping experience and a modern one.

• On-Site Parking: On-site parking is available at the trailhead, where visitors must park before hiking into their site. This designated area provides a secure place to leave vehicles during your stay.

Features / Highlights

• Hike-In / Semi-Primitive Experience: The hike-in nature of the campground is its most distinctive feature. This provides a more secluded and quiet experience than a typical campground, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and a closer connection to nature. The effort required also means it is less crowded.

• Close Water Access: The campground offers fairly close access to Jordanelle Reservoir, as mentioned in a customer review. This proximity is a major highlight, as it allows for easy access to fishing, swimming, and other water-based activities.

• Dogs Allowed: Keetley Point is a dog-friendly campground, allowing pet owners to bring their dogs on their outdoor adventure. Visitors are asked to keep their dogs on a leash, which is a standard rule for the safety and comfort of all campers.

• Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot: The availability of a wheelchair-accessible parking lot at the trailhead demonstrates the park's commitment to accommodating all visitors, ensuring that the initial access is as smooth as possible for those with mobility challenges.

• Rich Wildlife and Birdlife: A real customer review mentioned seeing "lots of birds and deer," highlighting the abundant wildlife in the area. This provides a great opportunity for nature watching and adds to the overall outdoor experience.

• Shady Sites: Some sites offer shade, a welcome feature during the warmer months. A real customer review mentioned "some shady sites," which is helpful information for campers looking to escape the sun.

Contact Information

Address: UT-319, Heber City, UT 84032, USA

Phone: (435) 649-9540

What is Worth Choosing

Keetley Point Campground is an ideal choice for Utahns who are looking for something different from the standard car camping experience. What makes it worth choosing is its unique semi-primitive, hike-in nature. This design naturally filters out the crowds and creates a quieter, more intimate atmosphere. It offers a genuine sense of escape and solitude that is hard to find in more accessible campgrounds. The close proximity to the water, as noted by a reviewer, is a significant plus, as it provides a constant source of recreation and beauty.

The campground strikes a great balance between a rugged, back-to-nature feel and the convenience of modern amenities. The presence of flush toilets, running water, and even showers makes it a comfortable option for a multi-day trip. The sites themselves are well-equipped with picnic tables and fire pits, which simplifies the packing process and enhances the overall camping experience. The dog-friendly policy is another major draw for pet owners who want to bring their furry companions along.

While there are some challenges to be aware of, such as the new construction and the need to carry your own gear, the positive aspects far outweigh them. A review from a real customer who had a positive experience despite the changes is a good indicator that the campground remains a great place to visit. The fact that the waterside sites are reservable offers a way to secure a prime location and ensure a better experience. For anyone in Utah seeking a camping adventure that is a step up from typical car camping, offering more tranquility and a connection to the landscape, Keetley Point Campground provides a truly worthwhile and memorable option.

Keetley Point Campground

UT-319, Heber City, UT 84032, USA