How much does camping cost at Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)?

Camping fees at Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut) range from $27.45-$305/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut) first-come first-served or reservation?

Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut) accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut) before I book?

Yes! Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut) has 9 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)?

Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut) is open May 15 to September 14. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)?

Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut) does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)?

Fire policies at Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut): Extra Vehicle - $10 per vehicle, per day (paid on-site cash/check) Firewood - $9. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut) have?

Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut) has 26 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)?

Yes, pets are allowed at Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut). Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)?

Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut) offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)?

Popular activities at Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut) include Hiking, Fishing, Biking. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)

4.04

171 reviews

Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, FR062, Springville, UT 84663

Featured in:Tent Camping Utah

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$27.45 - $305/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

26 campsites

Season

Open from May 16, 20...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Utah Recreation Company Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$27.45 - $305/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

26 campsites

Season

Open from May 16, 20...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Utah Recreation Company Official Website

Get Directions

Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)

$27.45 - $305.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC - Small Group: $82.36; GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $270.10; S&P Group 100: $305.00; S&P Group 24: $93.00; S&P Single:...

Standard Site Fee$27.67

Group Site Fee$305.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

SPANISH FORK RANGER DISTRICT 801-798-3571 OR UTAH RECREATION COMPANY 385-273-1100comments@AmericanLL.com

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, FR062, Springville, UT 84663

Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)

Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, FR062, Springville, UT 84663

Nearby places

Springville (12 miles, approximately 25 minutes), Provo (20 miles, approximately 35 minutes), Salt Lake City (50 miles, approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes)

Driving directionsFrom I-15 take Springville exit 260. Continue east, towards Springville, through the intersection of Main Street and Highway 400 South. At the four-way stop at the end of 400 South, turn right onto Canyon Road. Keep heading east up Canyon Road for about 6 miles. After passing Hobble Creek Golf Course, the road will fork; stay to the right. Balsam Campground is approximately 6 miles from the golf course past the junction of Forest Roads 132 and 058.

Weather at Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)

Current alerts(13)

Campground Etiquette and Rules Gates open at 7am, Gates close at 10pm Quiet Hours are 10pm-6am No generators after 10pm Camping is allowed only within the designated space provided.
Click here for more info about the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest -For more information, please call Spanish Fork Ranger District at 801-798-3571 or Utah Recreation at 385-273-1100 -Visit our website gocamputah.com or Facebook facebook.com/letsgocamputah To reserve a…
Dogs or Domestic Pets Owners must -Control dogs by leash not to exceed six feet (6’) at all times -Clean up dog feces immediately -Limit two dogs per campsite Do not allow dogs to -Threaten, or attack people/animals -Interfere with people, vehicles, or property -Cause damage to…
Don't Move Firewood: Help prevent the spread of tree-killing pests in our national forests by obtaining firewood within 10 miles of your destination and burning it on-site. For more information click here

Best Time to Camp at Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)

Best season: fall. Late summer into very early fall offers the most striking combination of cooler days, crisp nights, and the first flush of maple and cottonwood color — making hikes and creekside camps especially pleasant. Expect daytime highs in the upper 60s to mid-70s°F and nighttime lows in the low 40s°F in late August/early September at 6,000 ft, with clear air and fewer bugs than midsummer. Trail conditions are comfortable for hiking and mountain biking, fishing stays productive as Hobble Creek cools, and— Peak months: August, July, June, May Avoid: September, October, November, December

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Late Aug–early Sep noted as sweet spot with first wave of fall color in the maples.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to September 14. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May 16, 2025, through September 1, 2025.

About Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)

Balsam sits in mid-elevation forest along Hobble Creek in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest near Springville. Utah Recreation Company operates this small campground with tent, primitive, and group sites shaded by cottonwoods and maples. Campers hike nearby trails, fish the creek, and bike forest roads under attentive camp host supervision.

Balsam Campground offers a mix of camping experiences including tent sites, small group sites, and larger group accommodations. The campground is suitable for both individual and group camping but does not offer RV hookups or cabin lodging.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Late summer into very early fall offers the most striking combination of cooler days, crisp nights, and the first flush of maple and cottonwood color — making hikes and creekside camps especially pleasant. Expect daytime highs in the upper 60s to mid-70s°F and nighttime lows in the low 40s°F in late August/early September at 6,000 ft, with clear air and fewer bugs than midsummer. Trail conditions are comfortable for hiking and mountain biking, fishing stays productive as Hobble Creek cools, and— Peak months: August, July, June, May Avoid: September, October, November, December

Elevation6000 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryHobble Creek carved this canyon over millennia, creating steep walls that rise from the valley floor. A mixed forest of maples, firs, and cottonwoods provides shade across most sites, with enough density that some campers find real seclusion while others end up closer together. The creek runs year-round and provides constant water noise. In autumn, the maples shift to gold and crimson. Shade quality matters here: it keeps sites cooler in July but also means slower drying after rain.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodges or other accommodations within the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo formal cultural or educational programs are offered at the campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

2-night minimum stay on weekends
3-night minimum stay during holiday weekends.

Guests Allowed Per Site

8guests per single site. Group sites can accommodate up to 100 guests.

Groups

There are two group sites available: one can accommodate up to 24 people and three vehicles, while the other can host up to 100 people and 25 vehicles. The larger site is a walk-in site accessed via a steep, paved trail.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov website, app, or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

AccessibilitySeveral sites are identified as accessible, but users report mixed experiences. Site 7, although not officially marked as accessible, was found to be wheelchair-friendly by one user.

Site SizeSites vary in size; group sites can accommodate up to 100 people, while individual sites are designed for smaller groups of about 8 people.

PrivacyPrivacy varies; some sites are well-shaded and secluded, while others are close together, with little visual or sound privacy.

Total Campsites26 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 7 is noted as wheelchair-friendly despite not being officially labeled as accessible. Sites 15 and 16 offer seclusion but may require short hikes from parking areas.

Best CampsitesSite 7 gets recommended for accessibility. Sites near Hobble Creek score high for water proximity and ambient noise, though you'll want to avoid spots adjacent to the group areas if you're after quiet. Reviewers warn that site numbers don't run sequentially and mapping apps sometimes place them incorrectly, so scout on arrival if you can.

Need help booking Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

No water available on site; bring all water needed for your stay including drinking water This is a 'pack it in, pack it out' facility ; bring trash bags

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a variety of recreational activities including fishing, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The creek running through the campground is a highlight for trout fishing, and nearby trails provide options for exploration.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available; vault toilets are the only option.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.0

171 reviews

Satisfactory

Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Balsam Campground receives positive feedback for its peaceful setting, shaded sites, and access to hiking and fishing. However, some users have complained about the lack of clean water, the condition of vault toilets, and additional fees for extra vehicles. The camp host, Rebecca, is frequently mentioned for her helpfulness and friendliness.

Review Summaries

Based on 171 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 171 reviews.

Site 7Loved
Site 7 is noted as the most accessible and offers good privacy.
Site 4Loved
Site 4 is shaded but near a high-traffic area.

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the shade, clean and surprisingly pleasant vault toilets, and proximity to Hobble Creek. Families enjoy the kid-friendly atmosphere and available space for activities. The camp host...

Based on 171 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the lack of potable water, which forces campers to bring their own, and the absence of trash services. Some found the vault toilets poorly maintained during peak seasons....

Based on 171 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own potable water and trash bags. Site 7 is recommended for its accessibility. Avoid sites near group areas if seeking peace and quiet. Watch out for rattlesnakes and check trail maps in...

Based on 171 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, attracting families and groups. However, daytime temperatures can get quite hot, making shade a premium. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while spring is quieter but...

Based on 171 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Rebecca, the host, was super helpful, and it's a beautiful campground, shady, and easy access to hiking." - Lena Dibble. "This campground is dog and kid friendly. It is the highest campground up...

Based on 171 reviews

Accessibility Features

Several sites are labeled accessible, but users report mixed experiences. Site 7 is explicitly recommended for wheelchair users despite not being marked accessible.

Based on 171 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is pet-friendly, with rules requiring leashes no longer than 6 feet and immediate cleanup of pet waste. Visitors found it accommodating for dogs, with plenty of shaded areas to relax.

Based on 171 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

You want a family-friendly forest camp with creek access and attentive on-site management during peak season.

Skip if

You need 24-hour gate access or can't tolerate vault toilet odors during heavy-use periods.

Nearby Campgrounds

Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, Forest Rd 058, Springville, UT 84663

Cherry Campground sits in a mid-elevation forest canyon along Hobble Creek near Springville, Utah, within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Operated by Utah Recreation Company, this small campground offers tent, primitive, and group sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Visitors fish the creek, hike canyon trails, and bike forest roads, with fall bringing peak foliage and comfortable temperatures for outdoor activity.

$27.45 - $213.00 / night

Maple Canyon Rd, Maleton, UT 84664

Whiting sits in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest near Mapleton, operated by Utah Recreation Company. This mid-elevation campground runs along a creek beneath a maple and cottonwood canopy that blazes gold and orange each fall. Campers hike and bike forest trails, with tent sites, RV spots, and group options available.

$27.45 - $610.00 / night

Diamond Campground, Diamond Fork Rd, Utah

Diamond Campground offers 60 sites for tent and RV camping at 5,200 feet elevation in Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, about 15 miles up Spanish Fork Canyon. The campground runs along Diamond Fork Stream and Wanrhodes Creek, with fees ranging from $24 to $48 per night depending on site type. Clean vault toilets and generally helpful camp hosts make this a solid base camp for waterfall hikes and canyon fishing, though site privacy varies considerably and weekend crowds can be noisy.

$24.00 - $48.00 / night

Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, FR041, Spanish Fork, UT 84660

Diamond Campground sits in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest near Spanish Fork, operated by Utah Recreation Company at mid-elevation. The mid-sized campground offers tent, RV, and group sites with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Hikers prize the access to Fifth Water Hot Springs, while anglers work the nearby streams for trout. Open seasonally during peak months, the campground sees cattle grazing in the area.

$27.45 - $353.00 / night

Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, Rock Canyon Campground Rd, Provo, UT 84604

Rock Canyon sits in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest minutes from Provo, offering a quiet basecamp for climbers, hikers, and mountain bikers exploring the Wasatch Front. Operated by Utah Recreation Company, this intimate mid-elevation campground features primitive sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. The rough dirt access road rewards visitors with stunning canyon scenery and direct trail access to waterfalls, alpine meadows, and climbing routes.

$98.30 - $208.00 / night

FR113, Wallsburg, UT 84082

Lodgepole At Heber sits in the high-elevation alpine terrain of Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest near Heber City, operated by Utah Recreation Company. The small campground offers tent, RV, and group sites with flush toilets, potable water, and a dump station, drawing visitors for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in the surrounding forest. Campers appreciate the well-maintained facilities and shaded sites, though Highway 40 traffic noise is noticeable.

$30.43 - $503.00 / night

Strawberry Bay sits at high elevation on the shore of Strawberry Reservoir in Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, operated by Utah Recreation Company during peak summer months. This very large campground offers full-hookup RV sites, tent camping, and group options with flush toilets, a dump station, and an on-site camp store. Anglers and boaters come for reservoir trout fishing and morning glassy-water conditions, with afternoon winds creating scenic whitecaps for experienced boaters.

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Hope sits in mid-elevation forest within Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, a short drive from Provo. Utah Recreation Company operates this small campground with tent, RV, and primitive options, vault toilets, and fire rings. Fall brings brilliant maple and scrub oak color, quiet trails, and active wildlife, making it a favorite for hikers and photographers seeking mountain access without the summer crowds.

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Renegade sits at high elevation in Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest near Heber City, operated by Utah Recreation Company. The campground offers reservoir access for boating and fishing, with paved roads, flush toilets, and a dump station serving both tent and RV campers. Reviewers consistently praise clean restrooms and attentive camp hosts, though some tent campers note limited flat spots.

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Maple Lake Campground sits in mid-elevation forest near Payson in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Run by Utah Recreation, this very small campground offers tent sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Campers fish, hike, and swim in the lake during the seasonal operating window.

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Campgrounds

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut) sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p>Balsam Campground is located in Hobble Creek Canyon. Vegetation is fir, maple and cottonwood trees. Hobble Creek runs next to the campground. There are concrete pads under the tables. Popular activities include fishing Hobble Creek, playing volleyball or hiking Dry Canyon or Wardsworth Trail (both of which leave Hobble Creek Road within one mile of campground).</p><p>Maple, fir and cottonwood trees forest the area, providing partial shade, beautiful fall color and some privacy between campsites. Hobble Creek runs through the campground.</p>

About the campground

The elevation is 6,000 ft. Uinta National Forest 556 The campground, pack it in, pack it out, stretches along both sides of Hobble Creek among mature maple and some fir trees. Sounds of the creek can be heard throughout the campground. Good privacy between camp sites in a quiet, tranquil setting. All tent sites are walk-in. This is an excellent tent campground. Firewood is available for a fee. NOTE: Entrance gate secured 10PM through 7AM.

Seasons & access

Open May 3 through September 1

RV information

The parking aprons are paved. Back-in parking aprons about the same size.

Directions

In Springville, UT, at intersection of US Rt. 89 (Main St.) and State Rt. 77 (400 South), take 400 South east 1.2 miles to the intersection of 400 South and 13000 East. Turn right onto 13000 East and go 0.5 miles to a "Y" intersection. Bear right and go 6.7 miles to campground sign. Turn right at sign into campground.

National Forest: Uinta National Forest
Ranger District: Spanish Fork
Elevation: 6000
Rate: $23 per day
Maximum Stay: 7