Piuta Recreation Camp

For many of us who cherish the outdoor experiences Utah provides, there's a special type of retreat that combines the beauty of nature with a structured, meaningful purpose. Piuta Recreation Camp is one of these unique destinations. Nestled in the stunning Uintah Mountains, about 20 miles east of Kamas, this camp is more than just a place to set up a tent. It is primarily used as a spiritual retreat and children's camp, particularly for young women and groups affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Its location, far from the sounds of the city, offers a genuine escape, allowing visitors to connect with nature and with each other in a deeply personal way.

The camp's high elevation of 8,900 feet provides a delightful, cool climate during the summer months, making it a perfect refuge from the Utah heat. The scenery is consistently praised by those who have visited, with reviews highlighting the "spectacular views" and the sense of being "out of the way enough to see the night sky and not hear sounds of civilization." This sense of seclusion is a major part of the camp's appeal. It allows for a peaceful and reflective experience that is difficult to find in more commercial or public campgrounds. The mature pine trees that surround the camp add to its serene atmosphere, creating a classic mountain retreat feel that is both refreshing and invigorating.

While the camp's primary purpose is for organized groups, its facilities are well-equipped to make the experience comfortable and seamless. Unlike a traditional campground with just tent sites, Piuta Recreation Camp includes cabins and a lodge. The cabins are noted as being in "good" condition, and the lodge provides a central gathering space with a large common area, kitchen, and bathrooms. This infrastructure is a significant advantage, particularly for large groups who need a central hub for activities, meals, and meetings. The presence of public restrooms is another key amenity, ensuring that campers have access to clean and functional facilities. The camp's design caters to the specific needs of youth and spiritual retreats, making the logistics of a large group outing much simpler.

The feedback from visitors consistently points to the camp's well-managed environment. Reviews mention the clean facilities and the overall feeling of a well-kept site. The camp's use is managed under a special use permit from the Forest Service, which means that it operates with a focus on preserving the pristine nature of the land. This commitment to stewardship and maintenance is evident in the positive experiences of campers. The camp's caretakers play a crucial role in ensuring everything runs smoothly, from a well-maintained lodge to clean bathrooms, all of which contribute to the overall positive and peaceful experience. This level of professional management ensures that the focus remains on the experience itself rather than on logistical concerns.

One of the unique features of Piuta Recreation Camp is its setting in an area with a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. While the camp itself is a structured environment for group activities, the surrounding Soapstone Basin and Uinta Mountains offer endless possibilities for exploration. The camp's beautiful views are perfect for quiet reflection, and the area is a great base for those who want to explore nearby trails or simply enjoy the solitude of the forest. The camp's seclusion means that at night, the views of the stars are absolutely breathtaking, a simple pleasure that is often lost in more populated areas. It's a place that fosters a deep appreciation for the natural world and the quiet moments it offers.

As a children's camp, Piuta Recreation Camp is designed to be a "good for kids" destination, and its setup is a testament to this. The availability of cabins and a lodge provides a level of comfort and security that is ideal for young campers. The camp's structured environment, combined with the natural surroundings, makes it a perfect place for kids to learn, grow, and have fun in a safe setting. This focus on providing a positive experience for youth is a key part of the camp's mission and is a major reason why it is so popular for its intended use. It’s a place where lifelong memories are forged and where important lessons are learned, all while surrounded by the beauty of the Utah mountains.

In conclusion, Piuta Recreation Camp is a treasured part of Utah's spiritual and recreational landscape. Its primary purpose as a camp for youth and spiritual retreats gives it a unique character, but its natural beauty and well-maintained facilities are a draw for anyone who appreciates a peaceful mountain escape. The spectacular views, clean amenities, and secluded location make it an ideal choice for a meaningful and memorable group camping experience. While it may not be a public campground in the traditional sense, its role in the community and its focus on providing a safe and beautiful environment for spiritual and personal growth are what make it a truly special place. It stands as a testament to the power of combining outdoor recreation with a higher purpose, creating an experience that is both fun and deeply rewarding.

Location and Accessibility

Piuta Recreation Camp is located at Forest Rd 500, Kamas, UT 84036, USA, within the Uintah Mountains and the Wasatch National Forest. The camp is situated in the Soapstone Basin, about 20 miles east of Kamas, at an elevation of 8,900 feet. The road to the camp may be limited in capacity for loading and unloading, as noted in a review, which is an important consideration for groups. The camp does, however, provide on-site parking, making it convenient for those who arrive by vehicle. Its elevation makes it a delightful summer destination, but it is important to check road conditions, especially during the shoulder seasons.

Services Offered

• Group Camping: The camp is primarily set up to accommodate large groups, including youth camps and retreats.
• Lodging: The camp offers cabins and a lodge with bedrooms and common areas, providing a more comfortable alternative to tent camping.
• Restrooms: On-site public restrooms are available for visitors.
• On-site Parking: Ample on-site parking is provided for campers' vehicles.

Features / Highlights

• Good for Kids: The camp is specifically designed to be a great and safe place for children.
• Spectacular Views: The high-elevation location offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and night sky.
• Secluded Setting: The camp is located far enough from civilization to provide a peaceful and quiet escape.
• Cabins and Lodge: The availability of cabins and a lodge provides a more comfortable camping experience, especially for large groups.

Contact Information

Piuta Recreation Camp is primarily used for specific organizational purposes. Contact information is not publicly available for general booking. The camp is likely used under a special use permit for the groups that manage it. However, the address is Forest Rd 500, Kamas, UT 84036, USA.

What is worth choosing Piuta Recreation Camp?

Piuta Recreation Camp is an excellent choice for any local group seeking a purposeful and beautiful outdoor retreat. What makes it worth choosing is its unique blend of seclusion, stunning views, and dedicated facilities. For youth groups, its designation as a children's camp with clean restrooms and comfortable cabins is a huge plus, ensuring a safe and stress-free environment. The camp's location in the Uintah Mountains provides a breathtaking backdrop for both recreational activities and quiet reflection. While it may not be an option for a solo, spontaneous camping trip, for families or organizations looking to host a meaningful spiritual retreat, a youth conference, or a large family reunion, Piuta Recreation Camp offers a well-supported and peaceful environment. It provides a valuable service to the community, offering a place where people can truly disconnect and focus on personal growth and connection, all while surrounded by the incomparable beauty of the Utah wilderness.

Piuta Recreation Camp

Forest Rd 500, Kamas, UT 84036, USA