Utah State Fair
Fancy a jaunt to Salt Lake City? Steer your RV in the direction of Utah for 11 days of State Fair entertainment!
Event information
Utah State Fair RV camping at the Utah State Fairpark offers one of the region's most accessible fair experiences, with limited onsite camping (36x20-foot spaces, no hookups) available first-come, first-served during the 11-day event each September. Located at 155 N 1000 W in downtown Salt Lake City, the fair begins the first Thursday after Labor Day and provides convenient TRAX light rail access via Fairpark Station, eliminating parking hassles. While on-site RV spaces are restricted to maximum dimensions and lack electrical or water connections, they include basic sewer dump access. The Salt Lake City metropolitan area offers exceptional RV rental options from both Salt Lake City and West Valley City, putting you minutes from the fairgrounds while providing access to over a dozen full-service campgrounds nearby, including the award-winning Salt Lake City KOA just blocks from downtown.
What Makes the Utah State Fair Special?
Utah State Fair camping at the Utah State Fairpark represents one of the Intermountain West's most storied traditions, celebrating over 160 years of agricultural heritage, community spirit, and family entertainment in the heart of Salt Lake City. The fairgrounds themselves sit on the National Register of Historic Places, offering a unique blend of history and modern attractions across 11 action-packed days.
The fair brings together the best of Utah's agricultural traditions with cutting-edge entertainment, from livestock exhibits and rodeo competitions to carnival rides and nationally recognized musical acts. Cowboys Nation may have their iconic stadium, but Utah has something equally special—a fair that feels like coming home, where three generations gather under September skies to celebrate harvest season.
The fairpark's downtown location offers distinct advantages for RV travelers. Unlike remote fairgrounds, you're positioned within easy reach of Salt Lake City's restaurants, museums, and natural wonders. The Wasatch Mountains provide a dramatic eastern backdrop, while the Great Salt Lake shimmers just miles west. TRAX light rail and dedicated bus routes make navigation effortless during fair week.
To maximize your Utah State Fair experience, explore Salt Lake City RV rentals for the largest selection and convenient airport pickup, or discover West Valley City RV rentals to stay closest to the fairgrounds while enjoying suburban tranquility.
Tickets
How Much Does Utah State Fair Camping Cost?
Utah State Fair experiences involve several cost components, with pricing designed to welcome families while supporting agricultural programs.
RV Camping: Onsite camping spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis during the fair. Reserve early as spaces fill quickly.
Fair Admission: Daily admission prices vary by age group. Adults typically pay around $15-20, seniors receive discounts, and children under 12 often enter for free. Multi-day passes and online advance purchase deals offer significant savings.
Arena Events: Special performances, rodeos, demolition derbies, and concert series require separate tickets ranging from $20-50+, though fair admission is included. Headline entertainment pricing varies by performer.
Additional Costs:
- Parking permits for tow vehicles (if applicable)
- Food and carnival ride tickets
- Livestock auction participation
- Fair merchandise and crafts
- Fuel and supplies for your RV adventure
Money-Saving Tips:
- Purchase tickets online for advance discounts
- Attend weekday afternoons for smaller crowds and potential deals
- Bring picnic supplies—outside food is permitted
- Take advantage of free entertainment throughout the grounds
- Use TRAX public transit to avoid daily parking fees
Explore Utah State Fair RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
Several main highways connect the outskirts of Salt Lake City, making your drive to the area a pleasant and leisurely one. You may like to take I-215, which leads you almost directly to the fairgrounds, or even I-80 or I-15.
If you are northbound or southbound, I-15 is the most direct route. However, from the east, you can take I-80 and exit at Redwood Road. The Utah State Fair is in downtown Salt Lake City, with the main driving entrance at 200 North 1000 West.
Parking areas
There are several public parking areas at the Utah State Fair. Lot A is west of the Jordan River, while Lot B is in the White Ball Park, south of North Temple. Lot C is the main parking area at 2nd North and 1000 West, with bus and handicap parking. Lot E is at the Northwest entrance. Parking attendants will lead you in the direction of the best park for your RV, or the RV camping area if you are staying on the grounds.
Public Transportation
Various buses and rails will be in operation during the State Fair, making navigation of Salt Lake City a breeze. The Fairpark Station is near the fair for light rail service, and most buses run throughout the week and even on the weekend. During the 11 days of the fair, buses will also make special Sunday trips to and from the fair, usually on Route #519.
Where to stay
Onsite
The Utah State Fairpark offers limited RV camping directly on the fairgrounds during the 11-day event. Spaces accommodate RVs up to 36x20 feet on a first-come, first-served basis. These sites provide basic access but come with important restrictions.
Onsite Features:
- No electrical or water hookups available
- Sewer dump station available (fee applies)
- Pets must remain in enclosed pens or inside RVs
- Spaces fill quickly—arrive early for best positioning
- Walking distance to all fair attractions
- Can accommodate your RV for the event duration
Important Onsite Guidelines:
- Maximum RV dimensions: 36x20 feet
- Reservation not possible—first-come, first-served only
- Generators permitted for power needs
- Valuables should remain secured in your RV
- Fair officials may inspect bags at entry points
Parking Lots: For day visitors, several parking areas serve the fairgrounds. Lot A sits west of the Jordan River, Lot B occupies White Ball Park south of North Temple, Lot C provides the main parking at 2nd North and 1000 West (including bus and handicap access), and Lot E serves the Northwest entrance. Parking attendants will direct RV day-trippers to the appropriate areas. Standard parking costs $15 per day.
Nearby
If onsite camping fills or doesn't meet your needs, the Salt Lake City area boasts exceptional nearby campgrounds with full amenities that make the fair easily accessible.
Salt Lake City KOA offers award-winning facilities just blocks from downtown and minutes from the fairgrounds. This family-friendly campground features full hookups for RVs up to 80 feet, a heated swimming pool, hot tub, Kamp K9 dog park, Wi-Fi, cable TV, and deluxe patio sites. TRAX light rail access makes reaching the fair effortless.
Jordan Pines Campground sits in scenic Big Cottonwood Canyon at 7,500 feet, offering a mountain retreat atmosphere just 30 minutes from the fairgrounds. Perfect for those wanting to balance fair excitement with alpine serenity.
Redman Campground provides another Big Cottonwood Canyon option at 8,300 feet, combining high-elevation beauty with convenient city access for fair-goers seeking cooler mountain temperatures.
Pony Express RV Resort in North Salt Lake offers year-round accommodations with heated pool, clubhouse, game room, and full hookups, positioning you perfectly between the fairgrounds and Great Salt Lake attractions.
Getting around
The best way to get around the Utah State Fair is on foot, so bring comfortable shoes! Scooters, golf carts, roller blades, skates, motorcycles, and bicycles are all prohibited in the fairgrounds unless with written permission for a specified reason. Fortunately, there are plenty of places to rest your weary feet during your hours of wandering.
What to pack
Clothing
September weather in Salt Lake City transitions from summer to fall, creating significant temperature swings between afternoon heat and evening chill. Expect daytime highs around 75-80°F with nighttime lows dropping to 50°F or below.
Pack layers for versatility: lightweight t-shirts for sunny afternoons, long-sleeved shirts for cooler morning and evening hours, and a warm jacket or fleece for after-dark fair activities. Comfortable walking shoes are essential—you'll cover miles exploring exhibits, rides, and entertainment venues across the expansive fairgrounds.
Bring sun protection, including wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, as Utah's high elevation intensifies sun exposure. A light rain jacket provides insurance against occasional September showers.
Gear
Show your Utah pride with Ute-themed clothing, cowboy hats, or western wear that fits the agricultural atmosphere. Bring folding camp chairs for tailgating at your RV site and enjoying free outdoor entertainment stages throughout the fair.
The fairgrounds stretch across significant acreage, so comfortable footwear becomes crucial. Consider supportive athletic shoes or well-broken-in boots rather than fashion-forward but foot-torturing options.
Reusable water bottles stay essential in Utah's dry climate—refill stations throughout the fairgrounds help you stay hydrated without constant concession purchases.
Health & Safety
Utah's 4,200-foot elevation combined with September sun creates significant hydration demands. Bring high-SPF sunscreen and apply liberally throughout the day. The state's low humidity means you may not notice sweat, but dehydration sneaks up quickly.
Pack a basic first-aid kit with bandages, pain relievers, blister treatment, and any prescription medications you need. Long fair days mean tired feet and minor scrapes from enthusiastic carnival participation.
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes prove valuable when navigating petting zoos, food vendors, and crowded midways where handwashing facilities may require walking.
Where to eat
Cooking
Utah State Fair welcomes outside food, making your RV kitchen a strategic asset for budget-conscious fair-goers. Prepare hearty breakfasts before hitting the fairgrounds, and pack picnic lunches to enjoy in designated areas while avoiding concession markups.
No communal cooking areas exist on the fairgrounds, so all meal prep happens at your RV or campground site. If staying at full-service campgrounds like Salt Lake City KOA, you'll have access to grills, picnic tables, and full kitchen facilities.
Gas and charcoal grills work perfectly for traditional fair-time favorites—burgers, hot dogs, and corn on the cob capture the spirit without the price tag. Stock up at nearby grocery stores or the Downtown Salt Lake City Farmers Market for fresh, locally-grown ingredients.
Restaurants
Salt Lake City's downtown location puts hundreds of dining options within easy reach. For authentic Utah flavors, seek out local favorites serving traditional American fare with Intermountain flair.
The fairgrounds sit within a 5-minute drive of diverse restaurants ranging from quick-service options to upscale dining. Nearby neighborhoods offer everything from authentic Mexican taquerias to modern American gastropubs, Asian fusion to classic steakhouses.
For true Utah experience, explore local establishments serving regional specialties like fry sauce (a Utah original), funeral potatoes, and expertly-prepared Rocky Mountain trout.
Vendors
Inside the fairgrounds, food vendors create a festival atmosphere with classic fair favorites and creative new offerings. Expect traditional corn dogs, funnel cakes, cotton candy, and elephant ears alongside regional specialties and food competition winners.
Utah State Fair is famous for creative food competitions that push culinary boundaries—past years have featured everything from gourmet s'mores to artisan ice cream flavors made with local ingredients. Don't miss the cook-off challenges showcasing Utah's agricultural bounty.
All concession stands accept both cash and credit cards, with ATMs available throughout the grounds for convenience.
Safety
Security
Utah State Fair maintains comprehensive security to ensure a family-friendly atmosphere throughout the event. Professional security staff and local law enforcement patrol continuously, creating a safe environment for all ages.
All vehicles entering the fairgrounds undergo a security inspection before parking. When entering the fair itself, expect bag checks at gate entry points. Leave valuable items secured in your RV rather than carrying them through crowds.
The fairgrounds implement clear bag policies for certain events—check ahead for specific requirements. Small personal items in approved clear bags move through security screening more quickly.
Weather
September brings Utah's most pleasant weather, though conditions vary significantly between day and night. Expect abundant sunshine with occasional afternoon thunderstorms that typically pass quickly.
Daytime temperatures range from 75-85°F, perfect for outdoor activities but demanding sun protection and hydration. Evening temperatures drop to 50-55°F, requiring layers for comfortable fair enjoyment after dark.
Utah's low humidity means temperatures feel comfortable even at higher readings, but it also accelerates dehydration. Drink water regularly, even when you don't feel thirsty.
If afternoon thunderstorms develop, they usually bring brief downpours followed by clearing skies. Your RV provides a perfect weather refuge when needed.
Medical
Utah State Fair maintains first-aid stations throughout the grounds staffed by trained medical personnel. For minor issues—headaches, minor cuts, exhaustion—these stations provide immediate assistance at no charge.
Fair officials take visitor health seriously, with emergency response plans for any situation. If serious medical emergencies occur, dial 911 immediately. Multiple hospitals and urgent care facilities sit within 10 minutes of the fairgrounds.
Stay vigilant about sun exposure and hydration in Utah's high-elevation, low-humidity environment. Heat exhaustion symptoms include dizziness, nausea, and excessive fatigue—seek shade and medical attention if these develop.
