Spruces Campground

How does a campground at 7,500 feet defy the typical summer camping experience? At Spruces Campground, the air remains refreshingly cool, surrounded by dense groves of spruce and aspen, with Big Cottonwood Creek’s gentle murmur creating a tranquil escape from the heat and bustle of city life. Just a 35-minute drive from Salt Lake City, this high-elevation haven in Big Cottonwood Canyon offers easy access to some of Utah’s most picturesque hiking trails, such as Donut Falls and Brighton Lakes, making it a paradise for day hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Spruces Campground features well-maintained campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, and tent pads, complemented by modern amenities like flush toilets and drinking water. With group sites available and a volleyball court for added recreation, it caters to families and group retreats alike. Adventurers can enjoy fly-fishing in the nearby creek, wildlife viewing, or exploring the vibrant summer wildflowers and autumn foliage. Solitude Mountain Resort, just three miles up the canyon, offers dining options, a scenic chairlift, and a disc golf course, while a serene trail around Silver Lake is only a mile farther.

Set within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, this site balances accessibility with a sense of isolation, tucked into a subalpine forest alongside rugged peaks. Whether for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, Spruces Campground’s unique blend of scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and proximity to Salt Lake City ensures an unforgettable mountain retreat.