Retro Star Ranch - The Dome
Lacking privacy
Not as private or secluded as described and doesn't look like the pictures anymore. The views were gorgeous, but there were 8-10 residences/other campsites on the same hill as us and a road that was being used rather frequently (people were driving up and down it until 2 in the morning). The neighbors were above us and close enough that our camp was both in view and earshot of all of them. This meant that when trying to go the bathroom, it felt like we could be seen. There was a house down the hill under construction, so we were hearing power tools and an excavator throughout our stay. On the same note about noise and lack of privacy, three people drove their ATVs onto our campsite while we were trying to make dinner, and several more people mistakenly drove down to our campground. This was a bit annoying, but when it happened in the middle of the night it really disturbed us.
We came out here trying to get away from the noise of the city, but it was not exactly a quiet and meditative escape like we hoped.
Also, I would definitely recommend a camper or rv of some sort over tent camping if you're not comfortable being up close and personal with coyotes in the night.
Overall, it was nice but not enough to justify the price. If I wanted the experience of a group campsite, I would have gone to a state park for half the cost and pooped in a bathroom instead of a bucket.
Brooke B.recommendsSeptember 24, 2023
Retro Star Ranch - The Dome
This was a great last minute get away I planned with my dog! The area was clean and so pretty!
The road wasn’t as bad as I expected it to be getting to the dome. But I do have a small hatchback.
My dog was off leash the whole time and I didn’t see any wildlife and heard any gun shots. Only thing was there were two dogs that were howling almost my whole stay at one of the houses I could see. But I’ll be back!
Patrick M.recommendsSeptember 11, 2023
Retro Star Ranch - The Dome
Tent camping with dog
Great spot to get away close to SLC. Beautiful landscape, quiet location. We loved using the dome for climbing and hanging the hammocks. the fire ring and tent platform are also great features.
I would agree with some other reviews that indicate 4WD with a bit of clearance is worthwhile for access. The route can be challenging to find but following the provided directions will get you there.
There are a few neighbors nearby who look down on the site and can be heard due to the quiet location. This was not an issue for us as it was not often.
Nate H.recommendsSeptember 5, 2023
Retro Star Ranch - The Dome
Our stay at the dome was great. Secluded with beautiful views. Would recommend.
Haley N.recommendsAugust 27, 2023
Retro Star Ranch - The Dome
Awesome camping spot
Once you finish winding down the dirt trails, you are greeted by this massive dome. You can also hang hammocks from it safely. We set up our tents inside the dome and used the wooden platform next to it to cook meals on and hangout. The area is beautiful and the views from the site are awesome, and when the sky is clear, the stars look amazing. We brought telescopes to see them! There is no access to water or bathrooms, so you’ll have to prepare for that.
There is also no shade or trees so bring sun protection, hats, or an awning.
Retro Star Ranch - The Knoll
While this spot offers some really nice views of the surrounding mountains and the valley, it is not very private or secluded. There a two camper trailers with an unobstructed view down onto this spot. The directions to the site are complicated, but very accurate.