Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)
4.3078 reviewsUinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, FR062, Springville, UT 84663
Balsam (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)
$27.67 - $305.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$27.67
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$305.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $27.67 for standard nonelectric sites, $93 for small group sites (24-person capacity), and up to $305 for large group sites (100-person capacity) during peak season. Extra vehicle fee is $10 per vehicle, and firewood costs $9.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Hobble Creek Canyon, Balsam Campground offers a tranquil mountain escape where towering maples, firs, and cottonwoods create a natural cathedral overhead. This scenic retreat welcomes both families seeking intimate single campsites and larger groups looking for communal spaces. Days here unfold with endless possibilities—cast a line into the babbling waters of Hobble Creek, explore winding trails on foot or mountain bike, or saddle up for horseback adventures through the surrounding wilderness.
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 SeasonsAt 6,000 feet elevation, Balsam Campground experiences the delightful temperature swings characteristic of mountain camping. July days warm the forest floor with summer sunshine, perfect for outdoor adventures, while evenings bring a refreshing mountain chill that makes gathering around the campfire and snuggling into sleeping bags all the more inviting. Pack layers—you'll shed them by noon and reach for them again as stars emerge in the crisp night sky.
ElevationPerched at 6,000 feet above sea level, Balsam Campground offers the best of mountain camping—an elevation sweet spot where the air is crisp and clean, yet still comfortable for most visitors. This perfect height treats campers to cooler nighttime temperatures that promise restful sleep and spectacular views of the surrounding mountain ranges that seem to touch the sky.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where maple, fir, and cottonwood trees weave a protective canopy above your campsite, filtering sunlight into gentle, dappled patterns. Come autumn, the forest explodes into a symphony of gold, amber, and crimson as maples put on their annual show. The melodic sounds of Hobble Creek provide a constant natural soundtrack, while the mature forest ensures each campsite feels like its own private woodland sanctuary, offering both shade from summer sun and natural privacy screens between neighbors.
Geological RegionBalsam Campground sits proudly within the majestic Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, where ancient geological forces have carved steep mountain canyons that rise dramatically from the valley floor. Here, where Hobble Creek has spent millennia cutting its path through the landscape, a diverse forest ecosystem thrives. Stately maples mingle with evergreen firs and whispering cottonwoods, creating a rich tapestry of mountain forest life that changes with each season.
Campsite details
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.
Sites SizeSites vary in size; group sites can accommodate up to 100 people, while individual sites are designed for smaller groups of about 8 people.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies; some sites are well-shaded and secluded, while others are close together, with little visual or sound privacy.
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 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 CampsitesSites near Hobble Creek are highly rated for their peaceful ambiance and proximity to water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is 12 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12 PM.
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 are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into three loops with single-family sites and group sites. Site numbers are not sequential, and some sites may require walking from parking areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16, 2025, through September 1, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov website, app, or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are available on a first-come, first-served basis during shoulder seasons (September 2-6, 2025). Early arrival is recommended due to unpredictable availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations between 12:01 a.m. the day before arrival and check-out time incur a $10 service fee plus forfeiture of the first night's use fee. Refund requests must be made within 14 days of scheduled departure date.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
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
There are several hiking trails accessible from the campground. Deer Springs Trail starts at the top of the campground and is 1 mile long. Nearby Cherry Campground offers access to Left Fork Days Canyon Trail and Kirkman Hollow Trail, both suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.Fishing
Hobble Creek is known for rainbow and brown trout fishing. Anglers often enjoy the peaceful setting and the opportunity to catch fish in low-pressure areas.Biking
Biking trails are available in the surrounding area, including the scenic Kirkman Hollow Trail, located 2 miles south of the campground. The paved campground roads are also suitable for children’s scooters and bikes.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is frequently observed in the area, including free-range cattle outside the campground. However, visitors are advised to be cautious of rattlesnakes, which have been spotted.Winter Activities
No information on winter activities is provided.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports like kayaking or canoeing are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in designated fire pits. Strict adherence to bear-safe practices is required.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rattlesnakes, wildlife encounters, steep trails, and limited water availability.
Active alertsNo water available on site; bring all required drinking water. This is a bear country campground.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 11.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Spanish Fork Ranger District (approximately 15 miles), Utah Valley Hospital in Provo (19 miles)
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16, 2025 - September 1, 2025.
Trash and recyclingThere are no trash or recycling services on-site. Campers must pack out their own garbage.
Proximity to water featuresHobble Creek runs through the campground, providing opportunities for fishing and wading.
Common complaintsVault toilets have been criticized for strong odors and cleanliness issues. "Bathrooms smelled so strong of ammonia you could hardly stand to walk in." Some reviewers noted difficulty locating campsite numbers due to mapping inaccuracies.
HostRebecca, the host, is highly praised for her helpfulness and attentiveness. "Rebecca was terrific...she even helped us sort out parking and gave us tips on the creek."
Campground Map
Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, FR062, Springville, UT 84663
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.
Road access is paved but narrow with thick tree tunnels. Seasonal closures and steep terrain may limit accessibility during winter months. "Hobble Creek road is a narrow road tunneled with thick trees and winds through steep mountains."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)
Nearby supplies
Springville city for groceries, fuel, and camping supplies (approximately 12 miles)
Camper Reviews
4.3
78 reviews
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 78 reviews
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 78 reviewsShow more
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 78 reviewsShow more
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 78 reviewsShow more
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 78 reviewsShow more
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 78 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 7 is noted as the most accessible and offers good privacy. Site 4 is shaded but near a high-traffic area. Sites 12-16 require a short walk from the parking lot.
Based on 78 reviewsAccessibility 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 78 reviewsPet-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 78 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025