Upper Narrows
4.7711 reviewsUinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, Dugway, UT 84022
Upper Narrows
$20.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $20 for single sites (8 people max) to $125 for a group site (50 people capacity). Extra vehicle fee is $10 per vehicle. Firewood available for $9.
About this campground
Escape to Upper Narrows Campground, where a mile-long stretch of pristine wilderness awaits your discovery. This hidden gem offers authentic primitive camping with six intimate single sites and one spacious group area, perfect for gathering under starlit skies. Each site comes equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire rings for evening storytelling, while convenient vault toilets ensure basic comfort. True to its back-to-nature appeal, visitors should come prepared with their own water supply, embracing the self-sufficient spirit of desert camping.
Upper Narrows Campground offers group and single primitive camping options. Group sites are ideal for large gatherings such as family reunions or church groups, while smaller single sites cater to individuals or smaller parties.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this secluded canyon remains quietly tucked away, the timeless landscape speaks volumes about the enduring relationship between humans and these wild spaces, inviting modern explorers to create their own stories among the ancient rocks and trees.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the desert's most inviting personality during peak season, when crystal-clear skies and pleasantly moderate temperatures create ideal camping conditions. As winter approaches, the landscape transforms with occasional dustings of snow and crisp, freezing nights that add a magical touch to the canyon. While these colder months may challenge accessibility, they reward intrepid visitors with stunning frost-kissed mornings and peaceful solitude.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 6,400 feet, Upper Narrows delivers refreshingly cool evenings that provide welcome relief from desert heat. This high-altitude haven offers crisp, clean air and brilliant star viewing, though visitors should prepare for the thin mountain air by staying hydrated and taking it easy on their first day as their bodies adjust to the elevation.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a surprising oasis where stately oaks mingle with hardy maples and aromatic junipers, creating a unique tapestry of desert and mountain ecosystems. The dappled shade beneath this diverse canopy provides natural cooling stations throughout the day, while the gentle murmur of nearby Willow Creek adds a soothing soundtrack to your camping experience. This remote desert canyon showcases nature's artistry with dramatic rock formations and ever-changing light that paints the landscape in stunning hues from dawn to dusk.
Geological RegionNestled within the dramatic embrace of South Willow Canyon, this campground occupies a remarkable transition zone where desert meets mountain forest. The canyon's towering walls tell a million-year story written in stone, while the unexpected abundance of oak, maple, and juniper trees creates a lush microclimate that defies typical desert expectations. This unique geological setting offers campers an extraordinary blend of environments rarely found in such harmonious balance.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the provided sources.
Sites SizeLarge sites, suitable for multiple tents; the group site accommodates up to 50 people.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers partial privacy due to the oak, maple, and juniper trees, but specific details on site-to-site privacy are not provided.
Total Campsites7 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and creek-side access, the group site is ideal. Avoid stinging nettle areas and prepare for limited parking.
Best CampsitesGroup campsite (001, Loop: UPPE) is highly rated by reviewers for its spaciousness and amenities including new fire pits.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 12 PM.
Check-out
Check-out required by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
The campground has a stay limit, but the exact number of days is unavailable.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each single site allows up to 8 guests. Group sites accommodate up to 50 people.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 50 people and requires crossing a footbridge from the parking area. It features multiple picnic tables and fire rings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground consists of a group site accessed via a footbridge and six single dispersed sites along a dirt road.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins on May 16 and closes on September 1. Reservations can be made for individual sites starting June 24.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov website and app, or by phone at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilitySix single sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis during the off-peak season. Availability cannot be predicted.
Cancellation PolicyStandard reservation cancellations incur a $10 service fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's use fee in addition to the service fee. Group sites canceled within 14 days forfeit the first night's fee with no refund. No refunds for Scan & Pay transactions.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Upper Narrows Campground have opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The campground is near trails that lead to the Deseret Peak Wilderness and offers access to a nearby creek for fishing.
Hiking
Hiking is a prominent activity, with access to the Stansbury Front and Medina Flat Trails. These trails lead into the rugged Deseret Peak Wilderness.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Willow Creek, which runs alongside the campground, offers fishing opportunities for rainbow and brown trout.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in natural wildlife due to its proximity to the remote desert canyon and the Deseret Peak Wilderness.Winter Activities
There is no indication of winter activities being supported at this campground in the provided materials.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are mentioned as available activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated rings only, subject to regional fire advisories.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bear activity (strict food storage required) and stinging nettle near picnic areas as noted in user reviews.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 24
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 15.8 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are located in Grantsville, approximately 10 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 01 annually.
Trash and recyclingThis is a 'pack it in, pack it out' facility with no trash or recycling services provided on-site. Campers must dispose of their waste responsibly.
Proximity to water featuresWillow Creek runs alongside the campground, providing accessible fishing opportunities for rainbow and brown trout.
Common complaintsVault toilets are frequently cited as unpleasant by reviewers, with one describing them as 'gag-inducing' and recommending alternative toilet arrangements. Lack of water on-site requires campers to bring their own.
Campground Map
Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, Dugway, UT 84022
Driving directionsFrom Salt Lake City, head west on I-80 for 36 miles. Take the Stansbury-Tooele/Route 35 exit and travel south 3 miles to Route 138 West. Continue for 10 miles to Grantsville. Go through Grantsville to Cooley Street and turn south; go 5 miles to the South Willow Canyon turnoff. Boy Scout Campground is located 3 miles from the forest boundary.
Roads to the campground consist of dirt roads, and parking spurs within the campground are also dirt. Seasonal access conditions may require checking ahead.Nearby places
Salt Lake City - 36 miles / ~40 minutes drive
Grantsville - 10 miles / ~15 minutes drive
Nearby supplies
Grantsville offers grocery stores, fuel stations, and other essentials for campers approximately 10 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.8
11 reviews
Upper Narrows is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Upper Narrows Campground receives generally positive reviews, with an average sentiment of 4.72. Visitors praise the natural beauty, spacious sites, and shaded environment, but criticize the condition of the vault toilets and the presence of stinging nettles near picnic areas.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the "absolutely gorgeous canyon," the creek running alongside the campground, and the ample space for tents and group activities. The group site was noted as "perfect for family...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Several users mentioned the unpleasant odor of the vault toilets, lack of toilet paper, and the presence of stinging nettles near picnic tables. One user noted difficulties in finding accurate...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing your own water, toilet paper, and possibly a shovel due to the vault toilet conditions. Arriving early is advised for first-come, first-served sites. Another tip was to...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground appears to be most popular in summer, with visitors enjoying the creek and shaded sites. However, the lack of water and the odor issues with the vault toilets remain consistent...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The campsite is awesome, so beautiful. Lots of trees for shade and benches," one user shared. Another described it as a "hidden gem" but warned, "bring all your own water." A family reviewer noted,...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 Loop UPPE is repeatedly praised for its size and suitability for group activities. "This campground is a hidden gem...with many picnic tables, two fire pits, and about four tent spots," said...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific user reviews about accessibility features are provided.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must remain on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Owners must clean up after their pets immediately. One review mentioned taking precautions to ensure pets do not interfere with the...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025