Are you the owner for this park? Make it a featured listing and be seen in the top search results!
Wasatch/Spruces Campground
Overview
Nestled deep within the scenic Big Cottonwood Canyon, Spruces Campground offers a quintessential mountain escape just a short drive from the Salt Lake Valley. Situated at a high elevation of approximately 7,400 feet, this historic Forest Service facility is renowned for its dense groves of aspen and spruce trees that provide ample shade and a sense of deep seclusion. It is a peaceful destination where the mountain air remains cool even in mid-summer, making it a favorite for those looking to trade the city heat for a refreshing and authentic alpine atmosphere.
Location & Surroundings
The campground is perfectly positioned along the Big Cottonwood Creek, providing a soothing natural soundtrack for your entire stay. Surrounded by the towering granite peaks of the Wasatch-Cache National Forest, the area feels worlds away from the urban sprawl of Salt Lake City. Travelers will find themselves immersed in a landscape characterized by dramatic rock formations and vibrant seasonal wildflowers, with the winding canyon road offering easy access to some of the most photographed mountain scenery in Northern Utah.
Amenities & Park Features
While Spruces Campground leans toward a rustic experience, it provides necessary comforts for self-contained RVers and campers. Visitors can enjoy paved parking spurs, though it is vital to remember that there are no electric or water hookups available at this location. Each site is equipped with a sturdy fire ring and a large picnic table, allowing for classic campfire evenings. Key facilities include:
- Potable drinking water available at several stations throughout the park.
- Vault and flush toilets located conveniently within each camping loop.
- Designated group picnic areas for larger gatherings and family events.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will find no shortage of recreation just steps from their campsite. The Donut Falls trail is a legendary nearby hike that leads to a unique waterfall plunging through a hole in the rock, while the serene Silver Lake at Brighton offers accessible boardwalks and birdwatching. During the summer months, the nearby ski resorts of Solitude and Brighton transition into mountain biking hubs with scenic lift rides, ensuring there is always a high-altitude adventure waiting just a few miles up the road.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is ideal for nature-focused RVers who prefer the rustle of wind through the trees over the modern amenities of a commercial park. Because of the winding canyon roads and specific site dimensions, it is best suited for small to mid-sized trailers and campervans rather than large luxury motorhomes. If you value direct access to world-class hiking trails and a genuine connection with the wilderness, this high-altitude retreat provides the perfect basecamp for your Wasatch Range exploration.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Austin Hanks
What mountain camping should feel like. Big trees, lots of shade, good space for the kids to play, especially if you book two sites next to each other. The restrooms must be getting renovated cause they were all closed, but the Honey Buckets were well maintained.
Suzie P
Nice campground in Big cottonwood canyon. Each campsite is clearly marked and has a picnic table and fire pit. Firewood is available for purchase. Restrooms were closed, but they did have porta potties.
Tucker Pedersen
Great campground near Brighton and if you're up for a bit of a challenge, Day's Fork is a really pretty hike heading up past the group site! 3 miles out, 3 miles back and 3,000 feet of elevation, but the views towards the top are gorgeous!
Taylor Winkel
Fantastic place to camp. Had lots of spots open Sunday to Monday. We got a spot that has the best seclusion and privacy for a small tent (#47 btw). Uinta Ground Squirrels were fun to see.
Amir A.
Spruce Campground on Big Cottonwood Canyon Road is absolutely stunning, especially in the winter. The snow blankets everything, creating a peaceful and magical atmosphere. The trees look incredible covered in white, and the air is crisp and refreshing. The best part is the river that runs right by the campground. In winter, you can hear the gentle sound of the water flowing, even with snow all around. It adds to the beauty and makes the whole place feel like a winter wonderland. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy nature and the serenity of the season.