Map showing campground location near Mona, Utah

Camper submitted image from Cottonwood Campground

Cottonwood Campground

Within Uinta National Forest, Cottonwood Campground operates as a US Forest Service site from April through October. This established campground sits right off the road in Juab County, making it accessible for drive-in camping but also subjecting visitors to road noise and visibility.

The campground features basic amenities including pit toilets, designated fire rings, and picnic tables at individual sites. A small stream runs through the area, providing water access even during late summer months. KelTroy E. notes it's "not too far from Salt Lake City" with "lovely trees" providing some shade cover. The daily fee runs $14, though dispersed camping options exist along the access road for those seeking free alternatives.

Weekend crowds can pack the area with campers and off-road vehicle users, particularly during summer months. The campground allows pets and alcohol, and campfires are permitted in designated rings. Site conditions vary, with some visitors reporting maintenance issues including scattered trash and aging facilities. For additional camping options, explore campgrounds just outside Mona or nearby Bear Canyon less than a mile away.

The canyon setting provides access to hiking trails and serves as a base for exploring the broader forest area.

Suggest an Edit

RV Road Trip Guides

The Loneliest Road Trip

The Loneliest Road Road Trip Segment: Pueblo to Delta

Pueblo to Delta: 3 Day Road Trip

Build Your Trip

Plan a TripAdd

Location

Public Campground

Cottonwood Campground is located in Utah

Directions

8 miles from Nephi on the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway

Coordinates

39.7805011 N
111.72318227 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verizon
No Coverage
AT&T
No Coverage

Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verizon
No Coverage
AT&T
No Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site

Site Types

Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

48 min from Provo, UT
1 hr 19 min from Salt Lake City, UT
1 hr 47 min from Ogden, UT
2 hrs 30 min from Logan, UT

2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Enter to Win

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

4.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

Multiple campers commented on the scenic canyon setting with hiking trails and natural beauty. However, several guests reported problems regarding cleanliness and party activity that affects the overall experience.

connie C.

Guide

Reviewed Oct. 5, 2020

Trashy

Many of the pictures posted here are not of this campground. This is a free campground located in central Utah outside of the the town of Nephi. The campground is a local party place and is somewhat trashy, old toilet seats and some garbage laying around.

There is one pit toilet that did have toilet paper.

Month of VisitSeptember

Lea S.

Guide

Reviewed Jun. 4, 2020

Close drive, stunning.

This canyon offers different hiking trails and camping sites, with picnic tables.

(4) View All

Leah W.

Legend

Reviewed Sep. 25, 2016

Free camping down the road

The road going into Cottonwood Campground has free dispersed camping along it. There area no amenities, however you can't beat free. On summer weekends, this whole road is PACKED with campers and 4-wheelers.

KelTroy E.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 26, 2016

Cottonwood Campground in the Stansbury Mountains

Pretty country, not too far from Salt Lake City... A small stream running through the area (in August!)... But small and right off the road... A picnic table and fire ring... Lovely trees... Daily fee $14.00

(7) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Cottonwood Campground?

Cottonwood Campground offers basic amenities including picnic tables and fire rings at the designated sites. There's a small stream running through the area which adds to the natural ambiance. The campground has at least one pit toilet, though maintenance may be inconsistent. While the main campground has a daily fee of $14, there's also free dispersed camping along the road leading into the campground without amenities. The canyon area features hiking trails accessible from the campground for those looking to explore the surroundings.

How far is Cottonwood Campground from Mona, Utah?

Cottonwood Campground is located near Nephi, Utah, which is approximately 5-7 miles from Mona, Utah. The exact driving distance would depend on the specific route taken between the two locations. Both Nephi and Mona are situated in Juab County in central Utah, making Cottonwood Campground a relatively short drive from Mona. Visitors coming from Mona can expect a quick trip of about 10-15 minutes by car to reach the campground.

Where is Cottonwood Campground located in Nephi, Utah?

Cottonwood Campground is located outside the town of Nephi in central Utah. It sits in a canyon area that offers hiking trails and natural scenery. The campground is positioned just off a main road, making it easily accessible for visitors. It's nestled among lovely trees in a pretty country setting, providing a natural escape that's not too distant from Salt Lake City for those looking for a weekend getaway.

Keep Exploring