Redman Campground sits in Big Cottonwood Canyon at approximately 7,800 feet elevation, offering alpine forest camping with cooler summer temperatures typically 10-15 degrees below Salt Lake City. The campground operates from late June to early September with most sites placed strategically among dense pine trees. Beyond traditional tent and RV camping, yurt accommodations provide alternative lodging with more weather protection than standard tents.
What to do
Snowshoe winter camping: In the colder months, Spruces Campground offers dedicated winter access. "Wonderful winter wonder land you can snowshoe into in the winter and camp at! You can also stay here during the summer just be prepared to book a couple months in advance," notes Shilah M.
Short hikes with rewards: From Mt. Timpanogos Campground, several waterfall trails begin nearby. "There is a stream that runs thru it and a lot of trees that provide plenty of shade. There are several hiking trails within walking distance, with waterfall destinations, or a peak to summit," explains Melody O.
Fishing spots: Multiple stocked fishing areas exist within a short drive. The American Fork Canyon area "has access to many fishing lakes and hiking trails," according to Whitney J., who camps at Granite Flat.
Climbing access: The canyons surrounding Brighton contain numerous rock climbing routes of varying difficulties. "This canyon holds some of the most historic sport routes in America as some of the hardest routes in the country, at the time, were established here in the late 80's and early 90's," notes Alan B.
What campers like
Early morning wildlife viewing: Dawn provides optimal wildlife observation times. "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," shares Kristin H. about Redman Campground.
Fast reservations: For last-minute camping trips, certain campgrounds offer better availability. "Little Mill is beautiful and so easy to access. I appreciate that it's first come first serve for last minute campers like me," states Julianna P.
Escape from city noise: Despite proximity to Salt Lake City, several campgrounds offer surprisingly quiet environments. "We live in the Valley but need a getaway for a weekend and this was perfect. Not only was it less than 20 min from our house we felt as if we were lost in the wilderness," Andy M. says about Spruces.
Temperature advantages: Summer camping at higher elevations provides relief from valley heat. "High elevation (7400ft) campground up the popular Alpine Loop," Andrea P. notes about Timpooneke, which offers similar elevation benefits to Brighton yurt camping.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most Brighton-area campgrounds fill quickly during summer. "Be aware of your travel plans and book early because the campground fills fast," advises Andy M. about Spruces Campground.
Pet restrictions: Not all campgrounds allow dogs. "We had planned to camp here but dogs are not allowed. This campground looked like an awesome spot, location is right off the hwy close to Solitude and trails," explains Natalie B. regarding Redman Campground.
Gate closure times: Some campgrounds restrict late-night entry. "Make sure you get camped and in because they lock the gate coming into campground at 11PM and you have to hike in," warns Brad B. about Granite Flat.
Water availability varies: Campground water access can change seasonally. Some locations may have water restrictions during certain periods, requiring visitors to bring their own supply.
Tips for camping with families
Group sites for larger families: Little Mill Campground offers spaces suitable for multiple tents. "I took the scouts up to this spot and it is a great place to camp with lots of room. There is a huge spot of grass that you can play sports or baseball on," recommends Brad B.
Yurt options for unpredictable weather: Yurt camping near Brighton provides more protection from sudden storms than standard tents. Several area campgrounds offer yurt rentals with varying amenities.
Easy-access locations: For camping with very young children, certain locations require less hiking. "This is a really easy-access campground so it's great for little kids. Beautiful canyon, lots of spots, and just a great time," says Caden W. about Little Mill.
Kid-friendly attractions: Plan activities that appeal to children. "Can't remember the site we had but there was a huge rock that was fun for the scouts to climb on. Really nice spots with lots of trees and shade," Brad B. mentions about Granite Flat.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Many mountain campgrounds have size restrictions for larger vehicles. "It's better for small campers or tent campers as the driveways were not designed for big rigs," notes an unnamed camper about Tanners Flat.
Pull-through availability: Some locations offer more suitable RV parking. "The campground is pretty, but it is not for family camping with a tent. This campground has pull-through areas for people towing camping trailers, but not much for those that want to set up a full-size tent and lounge around outside," explains Jason H. about Tanners Flat.
Leveling challenges: Mountain campgrounds often feature uneven terrain. "The one downside was that the tent spot was not flat, and had quite a few large rocks," Justin J. mentions about his stay at Granite Flat, a concern that applies equally to RV parking.
Road grade considerations: Access roads to Brighton-area campgrounds can be steep. Plan your route carefully and check road conditions before attempting to bring larger vehicles into certain campgrounds.
