Best Campgrounds near Brighton, UT

Camping near Brighton, Utah encompasses a range of mountain settings within the Wasatch Range, primarily in Big Cottonwood Canyon and surrounding areas. The region features several established campgrounds including Redman Campground, Spruces Campground, and Tanners Flat, all managed by the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. These sites sit at high elevations (8,000-9,000 feet) and provide access to alpine lakes, hiking trails, and ski resorts. Nearby Jordanelle State Park and Wasatch Mountain State Park offer additional camping options with more amenities, located approximately 20-30 minutes from Brighton in the Heber Valley area.

Most campgrounds in the Brighton area operate seasonally from late May or June through September or mid-October, depending on snow conditions and elevation. Winter weather arrives early and stays late at these high-elevation sites, with nighttime temperatures frequently dropping below freezing even in summer months. Fire restrictions are common during dry summer periods. Campgrounds near Brighton fill quickly on weekends, with reservations recommended through Recreation.gov for most Forest Service sites. Cell service is variable throughout the canyons, with better coverage at higher points and limited or no service in some canyon bottoms.

The camping experience varies significantly between locations. Forest Service campgrounds like Redman offer a more rustic experience with basic amenities. According to campers, "Redman has clean sites, exceptionally clean bathrooms with flushing toilets, and you are a walk or hike away from Brighton." Sites along streams are particularly popular for the natural sound barrier they provide. For those seeking more amenities, nearby Heber City hosts Mountain Valley RV Resort with full hookups, while dispersed camping options exist in areas like Mineral Basin for those with appropriate vehicles and willing to camp without facilities. Some dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles and may have seasonal access limitations due to snow or mud conditions.

Best Camping Sites Near Brighton, Utah (278)

    1. Spruces - Big Cottonwood

    33 Reviews
    Mounthaven, UT
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 733-2660

    $29 - $346 / night

    "Bathrooms always close by, no showers. All sites have a picnic table and fire pit. If you’re lucky, you can get a site close to the creek. Nice, cool nights in the summer."

    "Right up Big Cottonwood Canyon, this campground has the advantage of being up the canyon so you feel far away from the city, but close enough that you could go on a work night and still make it to the"

    2. Hailstone - Upper Fisher Campground — Jordanelle State Park

    38 Reviews
    Park City, UT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 649-9540

    $35 - $50 / night

    "This isn't the prettiest lake. It is nice and big, but since it is one of the closest to Utah Valley and Salt Lake Valley, it gets a lot of traffic."

    "We stayed at the "McHenry" campground in a spot right next to a creek. The traffic noise was a bit prevalent during the day because it's close to the highway. Great tent pad."

    3. Granite Flat (utah)

    38 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 785-3563

    $28 - $401 / night

    "Tucked in very back. Long ways to walk from car. Water spout next to car area. Will be sharing parking with 2 other sites. 2 lakes nearby. Fire pit with grill gate. Shaded area."

    "Utah is such an amazing place to visit for the outdoors. My family and I come here once a year because we love hiking and being in the outdoors."

    4. Tanners Flat

    19 Reviews
    Snowbird, UT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 733-2660

    $244 / night

    "It was quiet, tucked away from anyone.  Didn't really see anyone for the three days we are there.  Our site was next to the river, which really helped drown out all other sounds! "

    "We had site 11 close to the bathroom and in a flat, sunny clearing surrounded by trees. You could hear the nearby road a bit and see the mountains a little bit."

    5. Redman Campground

    15 Reviews
    Brighton, UT
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (801) 733-2660

    $29 - $244 / night

    "The campsites are clean, the bathrooms are exceptionally clean with flushing toilets, you are a walk or hike away from Brighton and immersed in some of the most beautiful mountains around."

    "It is close to Brighton and Silver Lake.  The campground is GORGEOUS and so quiet.  The hosts are so kind.  My nieces and nephews look forward to this trip every year, and you will too!"

    6. Pine Creek Campground — Wasatch Mountain State Park

    14 Reviews
    Midway, UT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 654-3961

    $45 - $90 / night

    "Close to fishing pond, play area for kids, beautiful golf courses, hikes, Midway/Heber cities, fishing rivers and beautiful drives up the mountains for more exploring."

    "Eventually was able to get the camphost to y’all to the folks next to us. Otherwise beautiful and super convenient. Would return again"

    7. Mountain Valley RV Resort

    21 Reviews
    Heber, UT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 657-6100

    $30 - $129 / night

    "Located in beautiful Heber City, Utah. We felt at home as soon as we arrived and were greeted by a nice man on a golf cart who lead us to where we’d be staying."

    "He was helpful and provided wonderful advice for the rest of our trip in Utah (Moab). The sites are a bit close, but the campground was quiet and clean.

    Our girls enjoyed the pool and hot tub."

    8. Little Mill

    20 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 785-3563

    $256 / night

    "We got a site with access to the river which my kids really enjoyed. There was a fun giant "sliding rock" in the area to climb on. Lots of trees for hammocks."

    "The site we stayed at had many trees around to hang hammocks and also eat and picnic in the shade. There are brand new camp fires in all sites."

    9. Timpooneke

    15 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 785-3563

    $28 - $205 / night

    "I love how it is near a river. You can hear it at night. It's so nice to get to a cool area out of the hot valley and into the cool scenic back country of Utah county."

    "While there are many campgrounds in Utah that rival it, this one is special because it's such a short drive after work."

    10. Albion Basin

    8 Reviews
    Alta, UT
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 999-2103

    $28 - $80 / night

    "Campground Review:

    An absolutely amazing campground that sits at the very top of Little Cottonwood Canyon near Salt Lake City. "

    "This campground located at the top of little cottonwood canyon is a great relief from the city. But the city is close by, and so are the crowds."

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Recent Reviews near Brighton, UT

1442 Reviews of 278 Brighton Campgrounds


  • Janelle K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Middle Fork Conservation Area

    Great spot!

    My family and I were driving through and needed a place to stay for the night. We camped the first night that lot camping was allowed (9/10) so it was quiet and peaceful. It is down a dirt road in a valley surrounded by cattle and deer and elk. Beautiful sunset and moonrise. A local ranger came by to chat and told us it can get busy with local homeless people and drug users, just FYI. But overall we felt completely safe and our neighbors were nice and friendly!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    Easy drive and beautiful view

    EDIT: Okay I lied. The bugs have infiltrated my tent. I don’t even know how but they have. I can hear the rest of them outside trying to find a way in. I didn’t even have any lights on. I’m scared and itchy and I hate bugs. Come here to watch the sunset and leave.

    The sites are trashed. I think people live here full time. You can hear generators running at night and occasional gunshots in the distance (shooting range). There’s giant fly swarms all over that you hear buzzing all night. There’s little to no privacy. I should really give it two or three stars but DAMN is it beautiful. Great sunrise and sunset spot right on the water with the mountains in front and behind you. Plenty of spots you can get to with 2WD. I didn’t venture up the hill because it seems a little more unlikely I’d make it, but like I said, plenty of other spots.

  • Allisson G.
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Uinta National Forest Hope Campground

    Great views, lots of Yellowjacket’s

    The yellowjackets were pretty annoying to deal with until after dusk and they’re right back out as soon as it’s light. My husband and I camped at an overlook spot about a mile north of this campground and it was an amazing view, little car activity but lots of yellowjackets. I’d recommend bringing a trap and wear peppermint essential oil to deter

  • Taylor K.
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Tinney Flat

    Great spot!

    There is a sign on the way up that says no dispersed camping, but that’s just for a specific area. A little ways past that it switches back to free dispersed. Nice quiet spot with hardly anyone else! Cute stream and mountain bike track on the way up too.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Lakeside RV Campground

    Nice quiet park

    Friendly staff nice level sites pull through FHU grassy spot between sites.

  • Doug B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Spanish Oaks Campground

    Great views

    Great campground with nice views. Fun mbt trails..and easy access to paved Spanish Fork river trail.

  • Roman P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Chokecherry Campground — Deer Creek State Park

    Dead Deer Creek

    A nice camp. 30 $ for a tent is a bit more than usual, but they have nice showers :) Selected this so I can swim in the lake, but it is not allowed due HAB...

  • Peter H.
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Sun Outdoors North Salt Lake

    Big crowded TV park

    It really depends on what you are looking for, if you to be in the city and don’t mind confined campgrounds then this is for you. Showers, laundry, pool, hot tub and store.

  • Cole A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Pony Express RV Resort

    Nice compact

    Like others have said…if you want space to spread out this is not the place for you.

    If you’re looking for a place that is convenient, full hook up, level concrete pads, subdivision desperate house wife’s camping addition this is the place to be!

    100.00 per night is high, in my opinion. For one adult and a cocker who doesn’t make a sound. Rare I know.

    Like many other places who advertise free wifi might as well plan on using your phone or star link or whatever you may have.

    If I planned on staying for a few months I would consider staying here. Only if they had a hefty monthly discounted rate. I think the state parks would be a better option for a one or two night stay.


Guide to Brighton

Camping near Brighton, Utah, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor fun. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails around Brighton, perfect for all skill levels. Many campers enjoy the nearby trails that lead to stunning views and serene nature. One visitor mentioned, "The campground was clean and bigger than I expected," highlighting the great access to trails.
  • Water Activities: If you’re into boating or fishing, check out Strawberry Bay. One camper shared, "The water is clear and perfect for all water activities," making it a great spot for a day on the lake.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. Campers at Granite Flat noted, "There are plenty of wildlife around to keep them interested," which adds to the camping experience.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Mountain Valley RV Resort said, "Everything was clean and so easy to use!" This is a common theme across several campgrounds.
  • Shady Spots: Campgrounds like Lakeside RV Campground are praised for their mature trees providing shade. One camper noted, "This campground is beautifully shaded and quite enjoyable for spending time outside."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. At Echo Island RV Resort, a visitor remarked, "Roxanne at the desk was awesome," showing how staff can enhance the camping experience.

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads or train tracks. A camper at Salt Lake City KOA mentioned, "Sleep was not great with the freight trains blaring through the night," so be prepared for some noise.
  • Site Proximity: Many campgrounds have sites that are close together. One visitor at Nunns Park said, "Camp spots are snug but do the job," indicating that privacy might be limited.
  • Reservations: Popular spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Strawberry Bay advised, "It gets really busy, so arrive early in the morning."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities like playgrounds. One camper at Mountain Valley RV Resort mentioned, "We had a large dog park and pickleball courts too!" which can keep kids entertained.
  • Plan Activities: Bring games or sports equipment. A visitor at Hailstone - Upper Fisher Campground enjoyed, "We had fun with polypong and basketball," showing that having activities planned can enhance the experience.
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. One camper at Granite Flat noted, "The area is well wooded," making it a great spot for picnics.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure your chosen campground has the necessary hookups. A visitor at Lakeside RV Campground appreciated the "full hookups" available, which made their stay comfortable.
  • Be Mindful of Space: Some sites can be tight. A camper at Echo Island RV Resort mentioned, "Decent space between RVs," which is something to look for when booking.
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Many RVers enjoy visiting local attractions. One camper at Mountain Valley RV Resort highlighted, "Close to Park City," making it easy to explore the area.

Camping around Brighton, UT, offers a variety of experiences, from serene lakes to bustling campgrounds. Whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking comfort, there's something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Brighton Campground located and how do I access it?

Brighton Campground is located in Big Cottonwood Canyon in Utah, nestled among beautiful mountain scenery. Redman Campground is one of the primary camping options in the Brighton area, situated within walking distance of Brighton Resort. The campground is accessible via the main canyon road and offers a convenient base for exploring the surrounding mountains. Another option nearby is Miner's Canyon Dispersed, which is about an hour's drive from Brighton but provides access to both Brighton and Snowbird ski resorts during winter months. Access roads to campgrounds in the area are generally well-maintained but may have seasonal closures due to snow conditions.

What amenities and facilities are available at Brighton camping sites?

Amenities at Brighton area camping sites vary significantly by location. Pine Creek Campground offers traditional camping facilities with asphalt sites, though some may be narrow and unlevel. For those seeking more developed facilities, Rock Cliff Area Campground provides full hook-ups for RVs in a clean, well-maintained environment with scenic views. Facilities typically include established fire rings, picnic tables, and parking areas. Many campgrounds in the Brighton region feature flush toilets, though dispersed camping areas like Soldier's Pass require you to pack in all water and offer no amenities. The more developed sites often provide trash service, while dispersed areas operate on a pack-it-in, pack-it-out basis.

Are there RV accommodations at Brighton campgrounds?

Mountain Valley RV Resort in nearby Heber City is one of the best options for RV camping near Brighton, offering full-service accommodations with a welcoming atmosphere and staff that guides you to your site upon arrival. For those looking to stay closer to Brighton, Jordanelle State Park provides big-rig-friendly sites with hookups. Many campgrounds in the area were designed decades ago with smaller rigs in mind, so larger modern RVs may find limited suitable sites. When planning an RV trip to Brighton, it's advisable to research site dimensions carefully, as some campgrounds have narrow roads, low-hanging branches, and unlevel parking areas that can challenge larger vehicles.

What are the options for family-friendly camping near Brighton?

The Brighton area offers several family-friendly camping options. Payson Lakes is excellent for families, featuring safe swimming and kayaking areas, plus a fishery perfect for children and youth. Motorized boats aren't allowed, making it safer for families with young children. Another great family option is Spruces - Big Cottonwood, which provides reservable sites, water access, and proper toilet facilities. Many sites in the Brighton area offer hiking trails suitable for various ability levels, with some campgrounds providing educational programs during summer months. When camping with children, look for sites with established fire rings, accessible water sources, and proximity to gentle hiking trails.