Box Elder Campground
4.5672 reviewsUS-91, Mantua, UT 84324
Box Elder Campground
$15.00 - $246.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary by campsite type: Single-family sites cost $29/night (capacity: 8 people, 1 vehicle); Group sites range from $96 to $246 (capacities range...
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Standard Site Fee$29.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$246.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$275.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider385-273-1100comments@AmericanLL.com
About this campground
Nestled in a tranquil mountain valley just 5 miles from Brigham City, Box Elder Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of accessibility and natural beauty. Here, beneath a canopy of shade trees, the gentle murmur of Box Elder Creek mingles with laughter from families gathered around picnic tables. The sparkling waters of nearby Mantua Reservoir invite anglers to cast their lines while kayakers glide across its surface. Well-maintained gravel roads wind through the campground, leading to sites equipped with modern amenities including flush toilets and fresh drinking water, ensuring comfort doesn't take a backseat to adventure. Whether you're hiking the surrounding trails, launching your boat for a day on the water, or simply relaxing creekside with a good book, Box Elder delivers the quintessential Utah camping experience.
Box Elder Campground offers diverse camping options including individual tent sites, several group sites, and standard non-electric sites.
Historical SignificanceBeyond the campground's boundaries lies a treasure of ecological importance—the renowned Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge. This vital sanctuary serves as a crossroads for countless bird species traveling ancient flyways, offering visitors extraordinary opportunities to witness nature's grand migrations. From elegant herons to vibrant waterfowl, the refuge transforms each visit into a living natural history lesson, connecting campers to the region's rich environmental heritage.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Box Elder into a sun-drenched paradise where warm days invite endless outdoor adventures. With temperatures climbing to a toasty 94°F under brilliant blue skies, you'll appreciate those shady campsites even more. As evening approaches, the mercury dips to a comfortable mid-60s—perfect for gathering around the campfire or stargazing without a jacket. The dry mountain air means you can count on clear skies and minimal rain interrupting your plans, making this an ideal basecamp for those seeking reliable weather during their outdoor escape.
ElevationCradled within the protective embrace of a mountain valley, Box Elder Campground offers a refreshing escape from the heat of lower elevations. This natural bowl formation creates its own microclimate, where cool mountain breezes funnel down the canyon walls, bringing relief even on the warmest summer days.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral where towering bottomland hardwoods form a verdant canopy overhead, their leaves whispering secrets in the mountain breeze. Box Elder Creek threads its way through the campground like a silver ribbon, its gentle babbling providing nature's soundtrack to your stay. Dappled sunlight filters through the dense foliage, creating an ever-changing mosaic of light and shadow on the forest floor. This lush oasis stands in beautiful contrast to Utah's more arid landscapes, offering a cool, green refuge where wildflowers peek from shadowy corners and the air carries the fresh scent of living water.
Geological RegionBox Elder Campground rests in a spectacular mountain valley carved by ancient geological forces and polished by time. The surrounding peaks cradle this hidden gem, where a thriving forest of bottomland hardwoods has taken root in the rich soils deposited by Box Elder Creek over countless seasons. The creek itself continues its patient work, flowing gently but persistently through the campground, a reminder of the powerful natural processes that shaped this peaceful haven. This unique combination of mountain terrain, flowing water, and dense forest creates a rare ecosystem that feels worlds away from the desert landscapes typically associated with Utah.
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Campsite details
AccessibilitySpecific accessibility features for campers with disabilities are not detailed in the source materials.
Sites SizeSites are varied in size, accommodating single-family up to large group sizes. Group sites can accommodate up to 125 people (site C). Some individual sites are reported as smaller than expected, but others are described as spacious.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between sites is mixed. Some users reported the sites being "too close together," with complaints of noise and people walking through their sites. Others described the campground as "secluded" and "private."
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites in the 20s offer more privacy and access to a creek. Avoid site 005 for overnight stays as it is unsuitable for tents or trailers.
Best CampsitesSite 012 is frequently praised for its proximity to Box Elder Creek and has ample shade. Group site A is noted for its spacious layout and amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Campers may stay a maximum of 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Single-family sites allow up to 8 guests.
Groups
Group sites range in size and accommodate between 50 and 125 people, with capacities for 9 to 25 vehicles depending on the site. Specific group sites include A, B, C, and D.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground consists of single-family sites and 4 group sites. Roads and parking spurs are gravel.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16 - October 4, 2025; peak season reservations begin June 24, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or via the app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available but must be claimed in person on the day of check-in. Occupancy cannot be predicted, especially on weekends and holidays.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be cancelled through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Late cancellations for individual sites will incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee. No refunds for Scan & Pay payments.
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
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Box Elder Campground can enjoy a variety of recreational activities. Highlights include hiking, fishing, boating, and picnicking. Mantua Reservoir, located one mile away, offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. The campground also has trails for hiking and horseback riding.
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity at Box Elder Campground. Trails are described as "good" by users, with highlights including the Eagles Rise Trail near Mantua Reservoir. Trails are suitable for families and offer scenic vistas.Fishing
Fishing is available at nearby Mantua Reservoir, which is just one mile from the campground. One user noted that the reservoir is great for kayaking and fishing, with their family successfully catching fish from the shore.Swimming
Swimming is available at Mantua Reservoir, which features a sandy, rocky beach and is less than five minutes away by car. This area is well-suited for families and kids.Boating
Boating is permitted at Mantua Reservoir. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and other water-related activities. One user mentioned their enjoyment of kayaking on the reservoir.Wildlife viewing
The Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge near the campground is an excellent site for bird watching and wildlife observation. An auto-tour route offers additional opportunities for viewing waterbirds and other animal species.Beach activities
Beach-related activities are available at Mantua Reservoir. The beach is described as sandy and rocky, suitable for sunbathing and family activities.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned in the source materials.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, including kayaking and canoeing, are popular activities at nearby Mantua Reservoir.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings only. Firewood is available for $9/piece.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsCampground is in bear country; failure to properly store food may result in fines. Visitors should be cautious of wasps, raccoons, and other local wildlife.
Active alertsMantua Reservoir may close periodically due to algae blooms. Visitors should check local advisories.
Weather forecast
37
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 58%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Logan Regional Hospital is located in Logan, UT, approximately 15 miles away. Police services are available in Brigham City, 5 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 24 - October 4, 2025.
Trash and recyclingCampground etiquette emphasizes proper disposal of trash. Users are required to put all garbage in dumpsters or store it properly to avoid wildlife attraction. Failure to comply can result in fines.
Proximity to water featuresMantua Reservoir is only 1 mile away, providing opportunities for fishing, swimming, and kayaking. Box Elder Creek runs directly through the campground.
Common complaintsCampground sites are closely spaced, leading to complaints about lack of privacy and noise. Camp hosts have been described as overbearing, particularly about parking policies and pet leash requirements.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful by most visitors but occasionally overbearing, especially regarding parking and leash rules.
Campground Map
US-91, Mantua, UT 84324
Driving directionsFrom Highway 89/91, travel 4.5 miles east of Brigham City, Utah. Look for highway signing at the town of Mantua.
The campground is located along gravel roads and parking spurs; it is easy to access directly from Highway 89/91. Roads are unpaved and may require caution during inclement weather.Nearby places
Brigham City (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Mantua Reservoir (1 mile, approximately 5 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and other essentials can be found in Brigham City, approximately 5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
72 reviews
Box Elder Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Box Elder Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment of 4.41. Positive comments frequently highlight the area's natural beauty, shading, and well-maintained facilities. Complaints focus on issues such as site proximity, traffic noise, and the need for improved camp host interactions.
Review Summaries
Based on 72 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize the campground's cleanliness, shaded sites, and proximity to Mantua Reservoir. Users also appreciated the "musical" sound of birds and the peaceful ambiance created by the...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include sites being too close together, noise from nearby roads, and overbearing camp hosts, particularly regarding parking and pet rules. Some users also mentioned maintenance...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing soap for the bathrooms and preparing for potential noise from nearby highways. Families with pets are advised to choose other campgrounds for more lenient pet policies....
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and early summer are popular times due to blooming flowers and mild temperatures. However, mid-summer can see an increase in visitors and traffic noise. Winter reviews are limited but note the...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Loved how woodsy the area is and the host is absolutely great!" "The reservoir was closed due to an algae bloom, so that really limited the activities while we were there." "The bathrooms have...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight differences in size and privacy. For example, site 005 was criticized for having no space for pitching a tent or parking a trailer. Site 012 received praise for its...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features were not directly reviewed, but some users mentioned convenient access to water spigots and bathrooms.
Based on 72 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed reviews about pet policies. While some appreciated the pet-friendly nature of the campground, others found the leash enforcement and strict rules inconvenient.
Based on 72 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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