Granite Flat campsite, one of the oldest in the Uinta Cache National Forest, is nestled just in the heart of the American Fork Canyon. It sits beneath Box Elder Peak and above Tibble Fork Resevoir, making its location a favorable one for those looking for recreational activities. The resevoir is small and often crowded (especially on weekends) so if kayaking or paddleboarding is what you're after, a different, more secluded area might be better. The Box Elder Peak trail is a strong 10 mile hike, and often free of foot traffic, unlike the more popular Mount Timpanagos hike in the Alpine Loop, and offers spectacular views from the top.

The campsite consists of two different loops, an upper and a lower, and each are unique in their makeup. The upper loop called Army Tree is the smaller of the two (sites 1-25), but several of the sites are doubled allowing for two families to camp there. The lower loop called the Barracks Loop is larger (sites 30-64) and densely wooded with quaking aspens and pine, and a creek cuts just behind it allowing the sound of flowing water to be wonderful background noise to your campout. Single campsites are $21 per night, double sites are $42. Extra vehicles do require an $8 fee.

The facilities include vaulted toilets, drinkable water, firewood, and pets are allowed on a leash. However, they do not have trash service so you must pack out what you bring in.

Pros:

• After Labor Day all sites are first come, first serve
• Season ends on October 15, so there were fewer people camping around us

Cons:

• Drinking water was turned off for the season
• Lower loop was closed for the season