Camping spots near Brighton, Utah provide outdoor access at elevations between 7,000-9,500 feet where temperatures drop significantly after sunset even during summer months. Forest Service campgrounds near Brighton typically operate from June through mid-September, with road access dependent on snow conditions. Campgrounds at these elevations often have vault toilets rather than flush facilities, particularly at more remote locations.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: From Albion Basin Campground, trails lead to multiple scenic destinations. "There is a great hike leaving from the campground to Cecret lake. But again it is very popular, so lots of people," notes Brian N. The area offers more challenging options too: "If you want to make a summit and take in the view from above then Sunset Peak or Sugarloaf Peak are good half day hiking options."
Mountain biking access: Camping at Timpooneke Campground puts you near extensive trail systems. "OHV riders will love the scenery and trails it provides just above the campground spot," says Shad G. The campground provides strategic positioning for early starts: "It's a nice site right at the base of the timpooneke trail that leads to summit of my timp. Not free, but a great way to be there for a head start on the sunrise hike."
Winter activities: Some campgrounds offer off-season use. "Wonderful winter wonder land you can snowshoe into in the winter and camp at!" writes Shilah M. about Spruces Campground. For summer visitors wanting cooler temperatures, Albion Basin offers relief: "The site is at 9400 ft so the temps are usually 20 degrees cooler than the city."
What campers like
River sound barriers: Sites along waterways at Little Mill Campground provide natural noise isolation. "We loved it. You could hear the river and we had a great time," says Melody F. Another camper adds, "We had a great tent site that was on the side near the mountain and across from us were campsites next to the road and the river. We did not hear any road noise at all, just the sound of wind in the trees and the water flowing."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer animal sighting opportunities. At Redman Campground, "This campground is quiet and has abundant wildlife. In addition to numerous deer, we had two moose munching away at the willow at the adjacent site." Campers consistently report moose, deer, and small mammals throughout the area.
Cleanliness of facilities: Despite high usage, campers frequently mention well-maintained facilities. "Redman has always been one of our favorite campgrounds in Big Cottonwood Canyon. The campsites are clean, the bathrooms are exceptionally clean with flushing toilets," notes Kristin H. Similarly, at Timpooneke, "The campground is well maintained but gets a lot of traffic in and out because of the hikers driving to the parking lot."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Sites book extremely quickly at most Brighton-area campgrounds. "Book EARLY! This campsite is always full," advises one camper about Timpooneke. At Albion Basin, "This site books out almost instantly at the beginning of the season, so sites generally only come available when there is a cancellation."
Weather variations: High elevation means unpredictable conditions. "It can get cold at night - high elevation. Not really a bad site in the campground. However it fills up fast and is about impossible to get a site on the weekend without a reservation," reports Angee D. about Timpooneke.
Watershed restrictions: Little Cottonwood Canyon has strict regulations due to being a watershed. At Tanners Flat Campground, "The nearby creek is pretty, but you cannot so much as wade in it without facing prosecution and a $1500 fine." Similarly, many campgrounds in the watershed prohibit pets: "NO Dogs allowed in the canyon - it is a watershed."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible facilities: Some campgrounds are better equipped for families with young children. "Each camping area is nice, however, it is very very busy and pretty tight quarters. If you're looking for a little more privacy from neighbors this may not be your best bet," notes Sydney Z. about Granite Flat.
Activity options: Parents appreciate campgrounds with multiple recreation choices nearby. "There is a huge spot of grass that you can play sports or baseball on. Really nice spots with lots of trees and shade. This is really close to some really good hikes like Stewart Falls, and tibble fork reservoir just minutes for your camp site," writes Brad B.
Noise considerations: Some locations experience significant traffic noise. At Little Mill, one camper noted: "My only reason this campground didn't get 5 stars is due to the horrible road noise. I seriously thought I was at a truck stop off the interstate. Honking and racing cars until 3am just ruined it."
Tips from RVers
Site angles: At Pine Creek Campground in Wasatch State Park, RVers should prepare for uneven sites. "Very few sites built to accommodate larger rigs. Narrow loop roads with mature trees at that time not well-trimmed. My 30' TT was perched with some effort on top of a pull-through that was a mound rather than flat. Unlevel and narrow asphalt sites."
Hookup options: For those seeking full services, look beyond Forest Service campgrounds. "This campground has 3 loops. 1 for tents, 1 for medium size trailers. 1 for large trailers. Check the website or call the guard station before booking to double check," advises David T. about Pine Creek.
Water pressure concerns: Some campgrounds have utility quirks. "Great campsite. Clean and nice amenities for a State Park. Be careful hooking up your RV to water. Very high pressure," warns Trevor S. about Jordanelle State Park.
