Buckland Flats Campground

For Utah locals, the desire to escape the valley and find a truly peaceful spot to camp is a familiar one. Buckland Flats Campground, located high above Bountiful, is a place that promises just that: a beautiful, secluded getaway. This is not a manicured, reservation-based campground. Instead, it offers a raw, primitive camping experience for those who are willing to earn their solitude. It’s a destination for the adventurous spirit who values stunning views and quiet over modern conveniences. This guide will provide an honest look at what you can expect from a trip to Buckland Flats, helping you decide if this rugged gem is the right place for your next outdoor adventure.

The experience at Buckland Flats is defined by its rustic nature. A camper who loved the spot described it as a "beautiful place to get away," noting that the "road is rough but worth it." They added, "The higher you go the less you hear. Everything's so much prettier far away." This review captures the essence of the location: the journey may be challenging, but the reward is a tranquil environment and breathtaking vistas. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, the best views and the deepest silence are found off the beaten path.

However, another review offers a more cautionary perspective, highlighting the need for proper preparation and the right kind of vehicle. This camper noted that the road is so rough it's "like riding over a cheese grater," and that "enormous rocks now block where you used to be able to go." They also warned of the dust and the trash they encountered, a reminder that primitive camping requires a "leave no trace" mindset from all who visit. This feedback is invaluable for setting realistic expectations. Buckland Flats is a place for a self-reliant camper who is not looking for a spotless, full-service campground but is prepared to embrace the wilderness as it is. It's a "boondocking" type of experience where you're responsible for your own comfort and cleanliness.

Buckland Flats Campground is situated at FR 138, Bountiful, UT 84010. Its location in the Wasatch Mountains above Bountiful makes it an accessible, yet remote, escape for residents of the Wasatch Front. The journey to the campground involves a drive on a rough dirt road, which, as noted by reviewers, can be a test for your vehicle’s suspension. The road conditions mean that a high-clearance vehicle, or at least one with good off-road capability, is highly recommended. The difficulty of the road is a natural filter that helps to keep the number of visitors low, contributing to the feeling of seclusion that so many campers seek.

Once you arrive, the campground offers on-site parking at designated spots, although a recent review suggests that some areas may be blocked off with rocks. This means that parking options may be more limited than they once were, and campers may have to find a suitable spot along the road to set up their gear. While this is a more rugged form of camping, it offers a level of flexibility and freedom that you won't find at a traditional campsite. The elevation and location provide a "get-away" feeling that is hard to match without a much longer drive from the Salt Lake Valley.

For those who are prepared for the journey, the accessibility of a hiking trail system in the area adds to the appeal. The ability to park your car and immediately start exploring the beautiful mountain landscape is a major convenience. The remote nature of the site means there is less foot traffic on the trails, allowing for a more intimate experience with nature.

• Primitive Tent Sites: Buckland Flats offers a true primitive camping experience, with tent sites scattered throughout the area. These sites are not maintained by any state or federal office, so campers are responsible for finding their own flat spot and setting up camp with minimal facilities.

• Limited Amenities: Public data confirms that there are on-site parking and designated tent sites. However, reviews suggest that these are very basic, with no modern amenities like restrooms, showers, or running water. This is a crucial point for anyone considering a trip here and underscores the importance of being fully self-sufficient.

• Hiking: The area is well-suited for hiking. Campers can enjoy trails that lead to higher elevations, where the views become even more spectacular. Hiking is a primary activity at this location, offering a great way to explore the rugged landscape and truly immerse yourself in the wilderness.

• Beautiful Scenic Views: The most significant highlight of Buckland Flats is its breathtaking scenery. The elevated location provides campers with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. As one reviewer mentioned, the higher you go, the more beautiful it gets, making it a perfect spot for photography and quiet contemplation.

• Good for Kids: The public data notes that the campground is "good for kids." While the primitive nature requires supervision, the open spaces and opportunities for hiking and exploring make it a great environment for children to connect with nature.

• On-site Parking: While the road is rough, the presence of on-site parking is a key feature that allows campers to set up their basecamp without having to carry gear for long distances.

• Solitude and Quiet: The rough road and primitive nature of the campground work together to deter large crowds, resulting in a quiet and secluded atmosphere. For campers who want to get away from the noise and commotion of city life, this is the perfect destination.

There is no publicly available phone number specifically for Buckland Flats Campground. Its location as a primitive, unmaintained site means that general inquiries for the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest are the best source for information.

Address: FR 138, Bountiful, UT 84010, USA

Buckland Flats Campground is worth choosing for the seasoned camper who understands and appreciates a true primitive camping experience. This is not the place for those who expect a clean, well-manicured site with flush toilets and picnic pavilions. Instead, its value lies in its raw, unfiltered beauty and the solitude it offers. The challenging access road is a natural deterrent that keeps crowds away, ensuring that your camping trip will be a private and peaceful one. This is an ideal spot for a spontaneous trip, as there are no reservations to be made or fees to be paid. You simply find a suitable place, set up camp, and enjoy the views.

The honest reviews serve as an excellent guide. If you have a vehicle capable of handling a rough, bumpy gravel road and are prepared for a no-frills experience, you will be rewarded with a beautiful escape. The lack of amenities means you must be self-sufficient, bringing your own water, packing out all your trash, and being fully prepared for the elements. For the camper who is looking to test their gear and skills, or for those who simply want to get as far away from the city noise as possible, Buckland Flats is an unparalleled choice. It’s a place to find a little bit of beautiful, quiet wilderness, a perfect escape that is "worth it" for the right kind of adventurer.

Buckland Flats Campground

FR 138, Bountiful, UT 84010, USA