Anderson Cove Campground + Swim Beach

Situated at the confluence of the north, south, and center forks of the Ogden River, the Pineview Dam has afforded year-round irrigation for farmers in the Ogden River Canyon since it was built under President Roosevelt’s authorization in 1934. Soon thereafter it became an epicenter for boating and recreation for Eden, Huntsville, and nearby Salt Lake City. Today it’s a haven for warm-weather recreationalists and campers looking for an escape from both the city and the heat. If a quick getaway and warm waters is what you’re after, great! Pineview is the perfect choice. If you’re chasing solitude and a clear night sky, you’ll want to head higher up into the Wasatch; this area sees incredible traffic on warm summer weekend.

Anderson Cove Campground is very near Huntsville on the southeastern edge of the reservoir, which can be very beneficial if you’ve forgotten a necessity, though the general store on site can likely take care of that. There are 68 sites that are open from May through the end of September. Call 801.745.3215 for specific dates. Most sites are reservable, but some are saved as first-come, first-served sites—each costs $25 per night. The summers here can be quite balmy, but almost all sites offer plenty of shade, and there is a comfortable amount of space separating each site. All roads are paved and lead to the many amenities like bathrooms, a picnic pavilion, a volleyball court, and well-manicured lawns. Compared to the other popular campground, Jefferson Hunt, Anderson Cove is very well developed (though you miss out on the joys of roughing it.)

Pineview Reservoir is encircled by the Wasatch Mountains, providing an incredible backdrop and all but eliminating wind from the water’s surface. This makes it a supremely popular destination for boaters, water skiers, wake boarders, SUP boarders, and the like. Anderson Cove Campground has a good-sized boat ramp and plenty of space to launch all types of watercraft as well as paved boat trailer parking. There are limited spaces though—arrive early to secure yourself a parking spot. Note that the campground gates are locked at 10 p.m., and there are a maximum of two dogs allowed per site.

Looking for waterside relaxation without having to deal with campers? Try Quist Beach, Middle Inlet Beach, or Cemetery Point Beach.

​Note: Anderson Cove Campground is open from early May through the end of September. Call 801.745.3215 for specific dates.