Bear Canyon
4.2714 reviewsUinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, Salt Creek Canyon Road, Nephi, UT 84648
Quick Facts
6,800 ftPrice
$15 - $143/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
3 campsites
Season
Open from May 16 to ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
6,800 ftPrice
$15 - $143/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
3 campsites
Season
Open from May 16 to ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Bear Canyon
$15.00 - $143.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $15 for picnicking (day use) in a campground site, $103 for tent-only group site C with a capacity of 50 people, and $143 for group...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$143.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$143.00
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Provider385-273-1100comments@AmericanLL.com
What Campers Say
4.27
Satisfactory
Based on 14 reviews
51 Google reviews
Most mentioned
views
"User reviews highlight the area's stunning natural beauty and tranquility but express dissatisfaction with maintenance issues such as locked restrooms and deteriorating facilities. The group sites are particularly appreciated for gatherings."
Fees & Passes at Bear Canyon
$15 - $143/night
Campsite fees
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: Maximum stay is 6 days.
Cancellation: Reservations must be canceled at least 14 days in advance to avoid forfeiting the first night's use ...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Utah Recreation Company website.
Best Time to Camp at Bear Canyon
From May through October, Bear Canyon transforms with the seasons, offering warm, sun-drenched days perfect for summer adventures and crisp autumn mornings that paint the aspens in brilliant gold. While summer brings reliably dry conditions ideal for outdoor activities, savvy visitors planning late-season escapes should pack layers for cooler mountain evenings. As winter approaches, the surrounding peaks often wear caps of snow, creating a dramatic backdrop for fall camping adventures.
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)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 16 to October 18.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from May 16 to October 18 (reservable from June 24).
- Current Alerts: Vault toilets are operational, but flush toilets are closed. Campers must bring their own water as spigots have been removed.
About Bear Canyon
Nestled at the gateway to Mount Nebo Wilderness Area, Bear Canyon Campground offers an exclusive group camping experience where adventure meets tranquility. This secluded retreat features smooth paved roads winding through a picturesque landscape where towering aspens and fragrant fir trees frame expansive grassy meadows. Modern vault toilets ensure comfort while maintaining the authentic outdoor experience that groups seek for their gatherings under the stars.
Bear Canyon Campground is exclusively suited for group camping, offering three group campsites. Primitive camping features are minimal as the sites are intended for organized groups.
Historical SignificanceBear Canyon serves as your basecamp for exploring the storied Mount Nebo Wilderness Area, where generations of adventurers have sought solace in untamed mountain landscapes. The nearby Nebo Loop Scenic Byway winds through centuries of geological history, leading travelers to the otherworldly rock formations of Devil's Kitchen, where nature has sculpted red sandstone into fantastic shapes that spark imagination and wonder.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, Bear Canyon transforms with the seasons, offering warm, sun-drenched days perfect for summer adventures and crisp autumn mornings that paint the aspens in brilliant gold. While summer brings reliably dry conditions ideal for outdoor activities, savvy visitors planning late-season escapes should pack layers for cooler mountain evenings. As winter approaches, the surrounding peaks often wear caps of snow, creating a dramatic backdrop for fall camping adventures.
ElevationPerched at 6,800 feet above sea level, Bear Canyon Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where the air is crisp and clean. This elevated position provides natural air conditioning during summer months, with temperatures running 15-20 degrees cooler than the valleys below, making it an ideal escape from the heat while still enjoying comfortable camping conditions.
Natural Features and SceneryThe majestic Wasatch Range embraces Bear Canyon Campground, creating a natural amphitheater where mountain vistas stretch in every direction. Ancient aspens and stately firs stand sentinel along the meadow's edge, their leaves whispering mountain secrets in the breeze. The centerpiece is a sprawling grassy meadow that invites group games and stargazing, while the limited tree cover within campsites ensures unobstructed views of the night sky's brilliant display.
Geological RegionStanding at the threshold of Mount Nebo Wilderness Area, Bear Canyon Campground occupies a unique position where the rugged Wasatch Range meets gentle mountain meadows. This geological wonderland showcases nature's artistry through dramatic elevation changes, where ancient geological forces have created a diverse landscape of soaring peaks and peaceful valleys. The surrounding aspen and fir forests tell the story of ecological succession, while the expansive meadow provides a natural gathering place carved by time and elements.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has paved roads, parking spurs, and walking paths. However, no specific accessibility features for disabled visitors are detailed.
Sites SizeThe group sites are large: Sites A and B can accommodate up to 75 people each, while Site C can hold up to 50 people.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited due to the open grassy meadow setting and sparse tree coverage.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose site C for smaller groups and proximity to shared vault toilets.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 6 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group sites accommodate 50 to 75 people depending on site.
Groups
- Site A and B accommodate 75 people and roughly 15 vehicles each
- Site C accommodates 50 people and 10 vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThree group sites (A, B, C) with paved roads and parking spurs. Walking paths connect facilities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16 to October 18 (reservable from June 24).
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available on Recreation.gov and the mobile app or via phone at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-ins or first-come-first-served reservations are not available; all sites require advance booking.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be canceled at least 14 days in advance to avoid forfeiting the first night's use fee and a $10 cancellation fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and loss of fees paid for the first night.
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 Bear Canyon Campground can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Salt Creek and trails like Bear Canyon Trail offer significant recreational opportunities.
Hiking
The Bear Canyon Trail, accessible from the campground entrance, supports hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The trail is noted for its scenic views.Fishing
Salt Creek runs along the campground, offering opportunities for rainbow trout fishing. However, water levels may vary seasonally.Biking
Biking is permitted on the Bear Canyon Trail, which starts at the campground.Wildlife viewing
The area boasts abundant wildlife, a key attraction for visitors. Bears are present, emphasizing the importance of secure food storage.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire pits; restrictions may apply based on season.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is a potential hazard, and campers must store food securely to prevent attracting wildlife. The area is also home to deer and cows.
Active alertsVault toilets are operational, but flush toilets are closed. Campers must bring their own water as spigots have been removed.
Weather at Bear Canyon
28
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services include hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations in Nephi, UT.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to October 18.
Trash and recyclingTrash must be stored in vehicles or bear-proof containers. Unclean campsites and leaving trash outside can result in fines up to $5,000.
Proximity to water featuresSalt Creek runs along the edge of the campground but may be dry during certain seasons.
Common complaintsLimited shade and rocky tent sites. Flush toilets are non-functional, and general maintenance of picnic tables and fire pits is poor.
HostHosts are available through the nearby Ponderosa Uinta Campground.
Campground Map
Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, Salt Creek Canyon Road, Nephi, UT 84648
Driving directionsFrom I-15, take Nephi exit 225. Travel about 5 miles east on Highway 132 to the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway. Turn left onto the byway and travel 3.5 miles to the Bear Canyon turnoff. Turn left. Bear Canyon Campground is located at the end of the road, just past Ponderosa Campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. It is located at the end of a road with paved parking spurs and walking paths within the site. Seasonal accessibility depends on weather conditions.Nearby places
Nephi (approximately 5 miles, 10 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including food and fuel, can be acquired in nearby Nephi, UT, which is approximately 5 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
14 reviews
Bear Canyon is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the area's stunning natural beauty and tranquility but express dissatisfaction with maintenance issues such as locked restrooms and deteriorating facilities. The group sites are particularly appreciated for gatherings.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Scenic views, proximity to trails, and large group site capacities are frequently praised by users.
Based on 14 reviewsCommon Concerns
Key complaints include locked flush toilets, limited shade, poor maintenance of facilities (e.g., picnic tables, fire pits), and rocky tent spots.
Based on 14 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water as there is none on-site. Consider hammocks if tent stakes are hard to use. Exercise caution with food storage due to bear activity.
Based on 14 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews caution about limited shade and rocky tent grounds. Off-season comments focus on the lack of operational facilities.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
'Gorgeous view. Not enough shade for tent camping and terrible traffic of others trying to park to go hiking near the campground.' - AnnaBelle Taylor. 'The group sites are better and closer to the...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Group Site C is noted for being hard to accommodate the full capacity of 50 people comfortably, especially for parking. Site A reviewers complain about the dangerous condition of picnic tables.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific comments on accessibility features from users, though frustrations with vault toilets being the only option might pose issues for some.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed with leash restrictions, but no reviews specifically mention experiences with pets.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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