Rock Canyon Campground

Rock Canyon Campground is a primitive and secluded getaway for those seeking an authentic outdoor experience high above Utah Valley. Nestled within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, this campground offers a rustic and natural setting that is a perfect base camp for a variety of outdoor pursuits. The campground is known for its stunning views, dense stands of trees, and proximity to some of the region's most popular trails and climbing routes. Unlike more developed campsites, Rock Canyon provides a back-to-nature feel, making it a favorite for seasoned campers and those who appreciate quiet and solitude. This is an ideal destination for anyone looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Wasatch Front.

The elevation of Rock Canyon Campground, at approximately 6,500 feet, provides a cool and shaded escape from the summer heat of the valley floor. The forested landscape is a mix of maple, scrub oak, and fir trees, which offer ample shade and a sense of isolation. Visitors are often treated to wildflowers in the spring and summer, and a variety of wildlife, from deer to elk and moose, are known to frequent the area. The campground is not just a place to stay, but a gateway to a magnificent recreational area that is beloved by locals and visitors alike. Whether you are a dedicated rock climber, an avid hiker, or simply someone who enjoys a campfire under the stars, Rock Canyon Campground offers an unforgettable Utah adventure.

The secluded nature of the campground, combined with its stunning setting, makes it a unique find. It provides a stark contrast to the bustling city of Provo below, yet is close enough to be a convenient weekend trip for Utah County residents. The experience at Rock Canyon is one of tranquility and connection to the landscape. It is a place where you can truly appreciate the rugged beauty of the Wasatch Mountains and the deep canyons that carve through them. The sound of rustling leaves and the crackle of a campfire are the primary soundtrack here, offering a serene and peaceful retreat from the noise of daily life.

Located on the scenic Squaw Peak Road, Rock Canyon Campground is situated far above Utah Valley, east of Provo. The address is Utah 84604, USA. From Interstate 15, visitors can take exit 272 toward 800 North/Highway 52, and then proceed east to the mouth of Provo Canyon. From there, you will turn onto Highway 189 for approximately two miles before turning right onto the Squaw Peak Road. The drive up Squaw Peak Road is a journey in itself, offering breathtaking views as you ascend the mountain. It is important to note that the road is a mix of paved and maintained dirt/gravel sections. The last 4.5 miles to the campground are on a dirt road that can be narrow, steep, and winding.

Accessibility to the campground can be challenging, and it is highly recommended to use a vehicle with good clearance. The road can be rough, and while some sedans might make the journey, it is not an easy drive. The road can be particularly difficult when pulling a trailer, and vehicles and trailers longer than 30 feet are not recommended. The remote location and challenging drive contribute to the primitive and isolated feel of the campground. It is this very inaccessibility that helps preserve its pristine and quiet atmosphere, ensuring that those who make the effort to visit are rewarded with a truly special experience away from the crowds.

This remote and beautiful location is the perfect launching point for outdoor enthusiasts. The campground's proximity to trails and climbing routes makes it a haven for adventure seekers. The journey to the campground, while a bit rugged, is part of the experience, offering spectacular views of Rock Canyon and the surrounding landscape. The isolation also means that you are more likely to encounter local wildlife, adding to the sense of a genuine wilderness escape.

Services Offered

• Vault Toilets: The campground is equipped with vault toilets for basic sanitation needs.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is furnished with picnic tables for dining and gathering.
• Campfire Circles: Designated fire rings are provided at each site for campfires, subject to fire restrictions.
• Serving Tables: Some of the group sites have serving tables, making meal preparation and serving more convenient for larger groups.
• No Water: This is a primitive campground with no water on site. Visitors must bring all the water they will need for their stay, including drinking water.
• No Hookups: The campground does not have any electrical, water, or grey/black water hookups for RVs or trailers.
• On-site Host (at nearby Hope Campground): A camp host is located at the nearby Hope Campground to assist visitors.
• Firewood: Firewood is available for purchase at the nearby Hope Campground.

Features / Highlights

• Primitive Camping: Rock Canyon Campground offers a rustic and primitive camping experience, perfect for those who want to disconnect and enjoy the outdoors without the amenities of more developed campgrounds.
• Group Sites: The campground contains four group sites, each named after a historical figure in the U.S. Forest Service. These sites are ideal for larger gatherings of friends, family, or organizations.
• Hiking and Biking Trails: The Rock Canyon Trail begins directly in the campground, providing excellent opportunities for hiking and biking. The Squaw Peak Trail, which leads to the summit, is also accessible nearby.
• Rock Climbing Paradise: The surrounding Rock Canyon area is renowned as a rock climber's paradise, with hundreds of climbing routes available for all skill levels.
• Scenic Views: The campground and the road leading to it offer stunning views of Rock Canyon and the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. A turnout just before the campground provides a spectacular glimpse of Utah Valley.
• Dense Forest and Shade: The campground is forested with maple, scrub oak, and fir trees, which offer plentiful shade, providing a cool and comfortable environment, especially during the summer.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is known for wildlife, with opportunities to spot mule deer, elk, and moose.

For specific information and to make reservations, it is highly recommended to contact the relevant administrative or reservation service.

Contact Information

Address: Utah 84604, USA

Phone Number (Pleasant Grove Ranger District): (801) 785-3563

Phone Number (Utah Recreation Company): (385) 273-1100

Note: Reservations are required and must be made in advance. Walk-ins or first-come, first-served camping is not available for these sites.

Rock Canyon Campground is a premier choice for a specific type of outdoor enthusiast in the Utah region. What makes it particularly worthwhile is its unique combination of seclusion and accessibility to world-class recreation. Unlike many campgrounds that can feel crowded and commercialized, Rock Canyon offers a genuine escape into nature. Its primitive nature means you are truly roughing it, which for many, is the entire point of a camping trip. The lack of amenities like running water and hookups encourages self-reliance and a deeper connection to the environment.

For the dedicated rock climber, the campground’s proximity to Rock Canyon's extensive climbing routes is unparalleled. It provides the perfect base camp for multi-day climbing excursions, eliminating the need for a long commute to and from the climbing area each day. Similarly, for hikers and mountain bikers, the direct access to trails like the Rock Canyon Trail and Squaw Peak Trail is a major benefit. This makes it possible to wake up and immediately start your adventure, maximizing your time on the trail.

The incredible views and forested setting are another major selling point. The dense tree cover provides much-needed shade, creating a comfortable and cool atmosphere even on hot summer days. The isolation and high elevation also mean that you can enjoy a peaceful and quiet night under the stars, away from light pollution. For those who value tranquility and a sense of wilderness, Rock Canyon Campground delivers on all fronts. It is a place where you can truly appreciate the natural beauty of Utah, from the stunning geological formations of the canyon to the sweeping vistas of the valley below.

In conclusion, Rock Canyon Campground is an excellent choice for anyone in Utah looking for a rustic, quiet, and adventure-filled camping experience. It’s not for everyone—the primitive nature and challenging road access are important considerations—but for those who seek solitude, natural beauty, and direct access to outdoor recreation, it is an unbeatable option. It represents the best of what Utah’s natural landscape has to offer, providing a memorable and authentic camping experience in the heart of the Wasatch Mountains.

Rock Canyon Campground

Utah 84604, USA