Albion Basin
4.8165 reviewsALBION BASIN RD, ALTA, UT 84092, USA
Quick Facts
9,500 ftPrice
$28 - $80/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
24 campsites
Season
Open from July 11th ...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
9,500 ftPrice
$28 - $80/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
24 campsites
Season
Open from July 11th ...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsAlbion Basin
$28.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fee structure varies by site type: $28 for single sites, $56 for double sites, and $80 for triple sites during peak season. Extra vehicle fee is $10...
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Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$80.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$108.00
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What Campers Say
4.81
Top-Rated
Based on 65 reviews
Most mentioned
cleanspacioussites
Some mention
noise
"Albion Basin receives generally positive reviews for its scenic beauty, hiking access, and friendly camp hosts. Negative feedback includes high costs, poor road conditions, and noise levels from nearby trails and construction."
Fees & Passes at Albion Basin
$28 - $80/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Premium Site
Best views or amenities
Stay Limit: Maximum consecutive stay is 7 nights.
Cancellation: Cancellations are allowed before check-in. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations al...
Prices verified November 24, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official American Land and Leisure website.
Best Time to Camp at Albion Basin
Mother Nature keeps you on your toes at Albion Basin, where afternoon thunderstorms can roll in with dramatic flair, turning sunny skies into electric light shows. Despite its lofty elevation, the campground maintains surprisingly cool temperatures throughout the season, offering a refreshing retreat from valley heat. The campground's opening dance with spring depends entirely on winter's lingering embrace—snowmelt dictates when these mountain meadows welcome eager campers each year.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: July 11 - September 13. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from July 11th to September 13th, subject to weather and snow melt conditions.
- Current Alerts: Mudslides occasionally close access roads, and construction can occur within the campground area during the season.
About Albion Basin
Perched at a breathtaking 9,500 feet in the heart of Little Cottonwood Canyon, Albion Basin Campground offers an alpine escape where white pines and quaking aspens frame your mountain adventure. Wake to the possibility of spotting majestic moose grazing in wildflower meadows or mountain goats navigating rocky outcrops above your tent. This high-altitude haven serves as your basecamp for exploring scenic hiking trails and immersing yourself in nature's grand spectacle, including the celebrated annual wildflower displays that transform the basin into a natural kaleidoscope each summer.
The campground is designed for tent and RV camping, with 24 reservable sites categorized as single, double, and triple. Primitive camping is not specifically mentioned.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature keeps you on your toes at Albion Basin, where afternoon thunderstorms can roll in with dramatic flair, turning sunny skies into electric light shows. Despite its lofty elevation, the campground maintains surprisingly cool temperatures throughout the season, offering a refreshing retreat from valley heat. The campground's opening dance with spring depends entirely on winter's lingering embrace—snowmelt dictates when these mountain meadows welcome eager campers each year.
ElevationAt 9,500 feet above sea level, Albion Basin places you in the rarified air of Utah's alpine wonderland. This impressive elevation gifts visitors with crisp mountain breezes, panoramic views of jagged peaks, and temperatures that can drop 20-30 degrees from the valley floor below—a natural air conditioning system that makes summer camping pure bliss.
Natural Features and SceneryAlbion Basin erupts into one of nature's most spectacular performances each summer, when countless wildflowers paint the meadows in vibrant brushstrokes of purple lupine, golden sunflowers, and delicate columbines. This botanical paradise hosts the renowned Wasatch Wildflower Festival, drawing nature enthusiasts from across the region. A crystal-clear mountain stream weaves through the basin, its gentle murmur providing the soundtrack to your stay. Keep your camera ready—moose often wade through the willows at dawn, while deer bound through the meadows and sure-footed mountain goats survey their domain from granite ledges above.
Geological RegionNestled within the dramatic landscape of Little Cottonwood Canyon, Albion Basin showcases the raw beauty of the Wasatch Mountains' ancient geology. Towering peaks carved by glaciers create a natural amphitheater around the campground, while hidden alpine lakes sparkle like gems in rocky pockets above. Cascading streams tumble down from snowfields, feeding the basin's lush meadows that burst with wildflowers each summer. This geological wonderland regularly treats visitors to wildlife encounters, from browsing moose and deer to the thrilling sight of mountain goats traversing seemingly impossible cliff faces.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityLimited information is available regarding accessibility. A specific complaint noted difficulties for handicapped visitors in accessing the site and the lack of proper accommodations for additional vehicles needed to assist disabled family members.
Sites SizeCampground features single, double, and triple sites, accommodating up to 8, 16, and 24 people respectively. Sites are described as spacious by users, with one stating, "The sites are very large with lots of room between them."
Sites PrivacyVaried privacy levels with some sites near trails experiencing high foot traffic. User feedback indicates that sites are "spaced far enough apart to have some seclusion" but also mentions that "hikers overwhelmed half of the campground."
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near Cecret Lake trail may experience high foot traffic. Sites closer to the stream offer tranquility and scenic views.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 3 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 7 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Single sites allow up to 8 guests, double sites up to 16, and triple sites up to 24.
Groups
There are no designated group sites explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 22 single sites, one double, and one triple site. Sites are spaced out to offer some privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from July 11th to September 13th, subject to weather and snow melt conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, via contact center, or mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up or first-come, first-served sites are available; all sites require reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed before check-in. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations also forfeit the first night's fee. No-show penalties include a $20 fee and forfeiting the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Albion Basin offers numerous recreational activities, including hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and fishing. Visitors can enjoy trails such as the Cecret Lake Trail and Catherine Pass/Sunset Peak Trail. The area is known for its stunning wildflowers in the summer, making it a hotspot for nature enthusiasts.
Hiking
The campground offers easy access to popular hiking trails such as the Cecret Lake Trail and Catherine Pass/Sunset Peak Trail. Albion Meadows Trail and Cardiff Pass/Twin Lake Pass are also nearby. Reviews praise the hiking opportunities, with one camper stating, "Cecret Lake is my favorite place, and when I go early, I am the only one at the lake for a good 20-30 minutes."Fishing
Fishing is available in the area but no specific details about the fishing experience were mentioned.Biking
Biking is a popular activity in the area. Mountain bikers enjoy trails like Albion Meadows Trail and the Germania Pass Trail.Wildlife viewing
The campground is frequented by wildlife such as moose, deer, and mountain goats. A review mentions, "We saw 4 moose at a higher campsite close by."Cultural and Educational Programs
Albion Basin hosts the Wasatch Wildflower Festival annually in late July or early August, featuring guided nature walks.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities mentioned.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire pits only. Visitors are encouraged not to move firewood to prevent the spread of pests.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSudden weather changes, including thunderstorms, and gravel road conditions with steep sections and ditches may pose challenges. Wildlife encounters, particularly with moose, are possible.
Active alertsMudslides occasionally close access roads, and construction can occur within the campground area during the season.
Weather at Albion Basin
20
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 86%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 16 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Emergency services are accessible in Sandy, Utah, approximately 15 miles away. Services include hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 11 - September 13
Trash and recyclingNo dedicated details on trash and recycling facilities, though general cleanliness of the campground is frequently mentioned in reviews.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground includes a stream running through the basin and is near Cecret Lake, a popular hiking destination.
Common complaintsComplaints primarily revolve around construction noise, hikers passing through sites, gravel road difficulties, and the campground infrastructure needing improvement.
HostHosts like Rae and George are frequently praised for their warmth, helpfulness, and efforts to maintain clean facilities.
Campground Map
ALBION BASIN RD, ALTA, UT 84092, USA
Driving directionsFrom I-215, take the 6200 South exit and travel a mile east to Wasatch Blvd. Take Wasatch Blvd 3 miles south to the junction with Little Cottonwood Canyon/Highway 210. Take a left at the junction and travel up Little Cottonwood Canyon 10.2 miles to the campground. The last 2.4 miles are on a maintained gravel road which has an information booth operated in partnership with the Ski Area; the hosts will direct you up the road to the campground.
The last 2.4 miles are on a maintained gravel road. It is steep in parts and contains large ditches, making it challenging for some vehicles with trailers. Reviewers have mentioned difficulties with traction on gravel hills.Nearby places
Alta (0 miles), Sandy (15 miles)
Nearby supplies
Snowbird Resort, located a few miles down-canyon, offers a grocery store, restaurants, and other supplies. Visitors can also find fuel and camping supplies in Sandy, Utah, 15 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.8
65 reviews
Albion Basin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Albion Basin receives generally positive reviews for its scenic beauty, hiking access, and friendly camp hosts. Negative feedback includes high costs, poor road conditions, and noise levels from nearby trails and construction.
Review Summaries
Based on 65 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the "beautiful wildflowers," "large and spacious sites," and "clean vault toilets." Many appreciated the helpfulness of the camp hosts. One review stated, "The campground is kept in...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues raised include construction noise, poorly maintained roads, and high costs. One camper noted, "There was also a ton of construction going on in the campground, massive Kennecott style trucks...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water as availability is limited. Avoid sites near hiking trails if privacy and quiet are priorities. Check ahead for construction schedules to ensure a peaceful stay. One review...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the peak season, with vivid wildflowers and favorable weather. However, some reviews mention unpredictable weather and occasional construction noise during this period.
Based on 65 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Lovely campground. Weather can be unpredictable but it's worth it." "The sites are very large with lots of room between them." "The camp hosts are wonderful and keep everything clean!!"
Based on 65 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 009 is near a busy trail and experiences high foot traffic. Site 008 is described as idyllic but affected by occasional noise from nearby terrain work. Site 005 is praised for its proximity to...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
A specific review cited challenges for handicapped visitors, indicating that the campground may not be fully accessible. "My husband is handicapped, and the road conditions and extra vehicle fees...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed in the area due to watershed restrictions.
Based on 65 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 24, 2025
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