Jordan Pines Group Campground

Introduction / Overview

For those planning a large family reunion, a company picnic, or a church outing in the Salt Lake City area, finding a location that combines natural beauty with practical amenities can be a challenge. Jordan Pines Group Campground offers the perfect solution. Nestled in the stunning Big Cottonwood Canyon at an elevation of around 7,500 feet, this campground provides a serene and spacious environment specifically designed for group gatherings. It is part of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and is a highly sought-after destination due to its accessibility and breathtaking scenery. The campground features several large group sites that can be reserved for both overnight stays and day-use picnics, making it incredibly versatile. Surrounded by a forest of towering pine and aspen trees, the area provides a cool, shaded retreat from the summer heat and a picturesque backdrop for any event. The well-maintained grounds and dedicated facilities ensure that your group can enjoy a comfortable and memorable experience in the heart of the Wasatch Mountains.

Location and Accessibility

Jordan Pines Group Campground is conveniently located on FR 632, just off Big Cottonwood Canyon Road in Salt Lake City, UT 84121, USA. Its proximity to the city makes it an ideal destination for local Utah residents who want a mountain escape without a long journey. The campground is easily accessible via paved roads, ensuring a smooth drive for all types of vehicles. While its location is relatively close to the main canyon road, the natural setting and the sound of the nearby Big Cottonwood Creek help to create a sense of peaceful seclusion. The campground is situated about 9 miles up the canyon, a scenic drive that takes you past rugged rock formations and through lush forests. It's also an excellent base for accessing some of the canyon's most popular attractions, including the trailhead for the famous Donut Falls hike, which is located in the immediate vicinity. This combination of easy access and a fantastic natural setting makes Jordan Pines a prime spot for group gatherings.

Services Offered

• Group Campsites: The campground is designed for group use, offering multiple overnight and day-use sites. Each site is spacious and can accommodate a large number of people, making it perfect for family reunions and other large events. Site capacities vary, with some able to host up to 125 people.

• On-Site Amenities: All sites are well-equipped with essential amenities for a comfortable group experience. These include large picnic tables and fire pits with grills, allowing for easy meal preparation and classic campfire fun.

• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets, which are maintained to ensure cleanliness and convenience for all campers and day-use visitors. However, it is important to note that due to the nature of a watershed area, there is no running water on site, and visitors must bring their own water for drinking and other needs.

• Recreational Facilities: For group activities and fun, the campground has a volleyball court and a horseshoe pit. While the facilities are available, groups must bring their own net, ball, and horseshoes to use them. These features provide a great opportunity for friendly competition and entertainment.

• Paved Roads and Parking: The roads and parking spurs within the campground are paved, which simplifies navigation and access for vehicles. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 25 feet in length, providing flexibility for different types of group camping setups.

• Reservation-Only System: Jordan Pines operates on a reservation-only basis. This ensures that groups have a guaranteed spot and can plan their events without worrying about finding a vacant site, which is a significant benefit for large gatherings.

Features / Highlights

• Breathtaking Scenery: The campground is a highlight in itself, situated in a gorgeous mountain setting. The surrounding peaks, streams, and dense forest of pine and aspen trees provide a stunning backdrop for any event. The beauty of the area is particularly noteworthy during the fall when the leaves change color, creating a vibrant display.

• Ideal for Group Gatherings: The primary feature of Jordan Pines is its design for large groups. The spacious sites and the available recreational facilities make it a perfect venue for creating a sense of community and shared experience, whether it’s for a family reunion, a church retreat, or a corporate outing.

• Proximity to Donut Falls Trailhead: A major highlight is the campground's immediate access to the popular Donut Falls trail. This family-friendly hike is a must-do for many visitors to the canyon, and starting from the campground's vicinity is a huge convenience.

• Peaceful and Secluded Atmosphere: Despite its group-oriented nature and proximity to the canyon road, Jordan Pines maintains a peaceful and private feel. The large sites and natural surroundings ensure that groups have their own space to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the mountains.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and moose. While campers should always be aware of their surroundings and secure food properly, the chance to observe these animals in their natural habitat adds a special element to the camping experience.

• Photogenic Location: The natural beauty of Jordan Pines, with its open meadows, dramatic mountain backdrops, and forest settings, makes it a favorite spot for photographers. It’s an ideal location for capturing stunning family photos or simply enjoying the visual splendor of the Wasatch Front.

Contact Information

Address: FR 632, Salt Lake City, UT 84121, USA

What is worth choosing

Jordan Pines Group Campground is truly worth choosing for its ability to combine the logistical convenience of a dedicated group site with the raw beauty of a high-mountain setting. For Utah locals, it’s an accessible and reliable option for planning a large gathering without the hassle of a remote or unequipped location. The ability to reserve a specific site for a day or an overnight stay provides peace of mind, ensuring that your group will have a dedicated space to enjoy. The camp’s amenities, from picnic tables and fire pits to the volleyball court, are all geared toward making group events successful and fun. Its location in Big Cottonwood Canyon is a significant draw. Not only does it provide a quick escape from city life, but it also places your group in a prime location for outdoor activities. The proximity to the Donut Falls Trailhead is an invaluable feature, offering an easy and rewarding hike that’s perfect for all ages. While it is important to remember the watershed rules—specifically the "no pets" policy and the need to bring your own water—these regulations are in place to protect the pristine environment that makes the area so special. Choosing Jordan Pines means selecting a venue where your family, friends, or colleagues can come together in a beautiful, natural setting, creating shared memories that will last a lifetime. It is a place that feels both remote and welcoming, a perfect reflection of the Utah outdoor experience.

Jordan Pines Group Campground

FR 632, Salt Lake City, UT 84121, USA