Camping at Spruces - Big Cottonwood Campground

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General Overview

Spruces - Big Cottonwood Campground is located in the beautiful Big Cottonwood Canyon, within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest in Utah. This campground is known for its scenic surroundings, with a backdrop of rugged peaks, forested slopes, and fast-flowing streams. It is popular among hikers, climbers, anglers, and nature enthusiasts.

Location and Accessibility

Spruces Campground is accessible from Salt Lake City by traveling up Big Cottonwood Canyon on Utah State Highway 190. The campground is approximately 9.5 miles up the canyon from the entry point near Cottonwood Heights. Roads and parking spurs within the campground are typically paved.

Campsite Details

The campground offers a variety of single and group sites to accommodate different party sizes. The campsites are well-spaced to offer privacy and have standard facilities, including:

Fire rings with grills
Picnic tables
Tent pads
Drinking water
Flush toilets

Reservations and Fees: Campsite bookings can be made in advance through the recreation.gov website or by phone. Fees vary based on site type and amenities.

Amenities and Services

While staying at Spruces Campground, campers have access to a range of amenities:

Amphitheater: Hosting educational programs
Volleyball Court: Available on a first-come, first-serve basis
Hiking Trails: Access to multiple hiking trails of varying difficulty
Fishing: Silver Lake is nearby and offers fishing opportunities

It's important to note that the campground generally does not have electric hookups, Wi-Fi, or shower facilities.

Season and Climate

Operating Season: Spruces Campground is typically open from late May through early September. This can vary due to weather conditions and snow levels.

Weather: Summer temperatures can range from comfortable to very warm during the daytime, while evenings can be cool. Campers should come prepared for changing mountain weather, which can include rain and even snow during early and late parts of the season.

Wildlife and Natural Features

The area supports a range of wildlife, including moose, deer, and various bird species. Campers should always take precautions to safely coexist with wildlife, such as storing food correctly and keeping a clean campsite.

Forested areas around Spruces Campground mainly consist of aspen, fir, and spruce trees, creating a picturesque setting and offering shade at many campsites.

Activities and Recreation

Recreational opportunities abound in the area:

Hiking: Trails like Donut Falls and the Brighton Lakes Trail are accessible near the campground.
Rock Climbing: The canyon walls offer various climbing routes.
Photography: The scenery is ideal for nature photography.
Wildlife Viewing: Bring binoculars for a chance to see local fauna.

Important Considerations

Wildlife Safety: Be aware of bears and practice safe food storage.
Canyon Regulations: Big Cottonwood Canyon is a watershed area, and swimming and bathing in the streams and lakes are prohibited.
Fire Restrictions: Depending on conditions, fire restrictions may be in place; always check the current status before you go.

Responsible Camping

When camping at Spruces Campground, adhere to Leave No Trace principles to preserve the environment for future visitors. This includes proper disposal of waste, respecting wildlife and other campers, and preserving the natural resources of the area.

Contact Information

For the most current information, contacting the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest is recommended. This can provide you with updates on availability, conditions, and any alerts or emergencies: