Ponderosa Group Campground
4.8211 reviewsSceinic Byway Highway, 150 E Mirror Lake Hwy, Kamas, UT, 84036
Ponderosa Group Campground
$129.45 - $143.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
The use fee is $143 for one group site with a capacity of up to 100 people and 20 vehicles. An additional $10 fee applies per extra vehicle. Firewood is available at Yellow Pine Campground for $9. Seasonal rates range from $129.45 during peak season. Fees may vary based on taxes, discounts, and booking methods.
About this campground
Nestled high in the Uinta Mountains at 7,400 feet, Ponderosa Group Campground offers an intimate escape along the breathtaking Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. This exclusive single-site retreat welcomes groups of up to 100 people into a world where towering ponderosa pines frame your gathering space and the sweet scent of sagebrush mingles with mountain air. Here, wildflower meadows burst with color in summer, and endless outdoor adventures await just beyond your campfire circle.
Ponderosa Group Campground primarily caters to group camping with space for up to 100 people and smaller RVs or trailers.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, this mountain sanctuary basks in brilliant sunshine by day, while crisp, star-filled nights remind you of your lofty perch at 7,400 feet. Pack your layers—even summer evenings call for a cozy sweater around the campfire. As winter arrives, deep snows transform the landscape into an inaccessible wonderland, preserving the campground's pristine beauty for the next season's adventurers.
ElevationPerched at 7,400 feet where the air grows thin and the views grow grand, this mountain haven offers a refreshing escape from summer heat. The elevation brings deliciously cool nights perfect for sleeping under the stars, though visitors should take time to acclimate to the altitude's embrace. Here, you'll find yourself closer to the clouds and farther from the ordinary.
Natural Features and SceneryYour group's private mountain retreat unfolds across a gently sloping forested hillside, where majestic ponderosa pines create a natural cathedral overhead. Silver-green sagebrush carpets the understory, releasing its distinctive fragrance with every breeze. Come summer, wildflowers paint splashes of purple, yellow, and crimson across the landscape. Though Highway 150 runs below, the campground's hillside location and thick forest buffer create a sense of peaceful seclusion that makes the outside world feel wonderfully distant.
Geological RegionThe mighty Uinta Mountains of northeastern Utah provide a spectacular backdrop for your group adventure. This ancient range, with its distinctive east-west orientation, creates a landscape of rolling forested hillsides dotted with pristine alpine lakes and meadows. Here, ponderosa pines stand sentinel over slopes carpeted in aromatic sagebrush, while seasonal wildflowers add nature's own decorative touches. The region's diverse terrain offers endless possibilities for exploration, from gentle forest walks to challenging peak ascents, all wrapped in the kind of scenic beauty that makes memories last a lifetime.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is accessed via a steep, rough dirt road, which may pose challenges for those with mobility impairments or certain vehicle types. Specific accessibility features for campers with disabilities are not noted.
Sites SizeThe group site accommodates up to 100 people with space for tents and smaller RVs or trailers.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is secluded and located on a forested hillside above Highway 150, providing a remote setting with plenty of shade from Ponderosa pines.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring an all-wheel or four-wheel drive vehicle due to road conditions. "I wouldn't take a sedan; you'd definitely need an all-wheel or four-wheel drive vehicle" (user review, 2023).
Best CampsitesOnly one group site (capacity: 100). Some user reviews say it is ideal for large gatherings.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is 100 people for the group site.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 100 people and includes space for tents and smaller RVs or trailers. It features large picnic tables, campfire circles, and smaller tables around the edges of the site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne large group site equipped with large picnic tables, smaller tables around the edges, campfire circles, and ample room for tents and smaller RVs or trailers.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16 to October 18. Closed between October 19 and May 15 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by phone at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up or first-come, first-served availability. Reservations are required and must be made at least 5 days in advance.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations within 14 days of arrival incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. No-shows are charged a $20 fee and also forfeit the first night's use fee. Changes to reservations outside original dates incur a $10 fee.
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
Ponderosa Group Campground offers diverse recreational activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. "Great campground...holds up to 20 rigs along with tent sights," a user remarked, highlighting its suitability for large groups. The campground's proximity to trails and the Lower Provo River provides opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails are accessible nearby, including Yellow Pine, North Fork, and Shingle Creek Trails. These trails provide options for varying difficulty levels and scenic views.Fishing
The Lower Provo River, located below the site and across the highway, offers good trout fishing opportunities.Biking
Biking trails are available, and the scenic surroundings enhance the biking experience.Wildlife viewing
The forested setting and diverse flora and fauna make this campground excellent for wildlife viewing.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned, though the weather data indicates snow during some weeks.Water Sports
Water sports are not mentioned for this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in designated rings. Fireworks and explosives are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM–6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country; secure all food and trash. Short, steep dirt road may pose challenges for some vehicles. Wildlife encounters possible.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Closest emergency services are located in Kamas, UT, approximately 5.7 miles away, including ranger stations and general medical facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season runs from May 16 to October 18 annually.
Trash and recyclingThis is a 'pack it in, pack it out' facility; campers must bring trash bags and remove all personal property and trash when leaving.
Proximity to water featuresThe Lower Provo River is below the site, offering trout fishing. High alpine lakes and streams are accessible along the nearby Mirror Lake Scenic Byway.
Common complaintsComplaints include the steep and rutted access road, uneven sites, and delayed servicing of vault toilets. "The vaulted toilet was to be serviced every day and it was not" (user review, 2020).
HostHosts are located at nearby Yellow Pine Campground and provide assistance upon request. Reviews praise them for being "very friendly" and for maintaining cleanliness.
Campground Map
Sceinic Byway Highway, 150 E Mirror Lake Hwy, Kamas, UT, 84036
Driving directionsFrom Salt Lake City, Utah, take I-80 east for approximately 30 miles to Exit 146 for Highway 40 toward Park City/Heber City/Vernal. Take Exit 4 onto Highway 248 toward Kamas. Take left onto UT 32 then right onto Highway 150 (Mirror Lake Scenic Byway). Go 5.7 miles to the campground. Watch for the sign and dirt road to the campground on your left.
Access requires travel on a short but steep, rough dirt road. Larger RVs and trailers are not recommended due to this terrain. Watch for a sign marking the dirt road entrance.Nearby places
Salt Lake City, UT (~30 miles)
Heber City, UT (~13 miles)
Kamas, UT (~5.7 miles)
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies, groceries, and fuel are available in nearby Kamas, UT, about 5.7 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.8
11 reviews
Ponderosa Group Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Ponderosa Group Campground highlight its cleanliness, secluded location, and suitability for large groups. "This campground is extremely beautiful and just over the hill from the highway so you have no view or sound from passing cars," wrote one reviewer, emphasizing its remote but accessible qualities.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the campground's cleanliness, scenic beauty, and the helpfulness of the hosts. "Johnny and Susan are terrific camp hosts, very friendly and kept the grounds very well maintained," one...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users expressed concerns about the road leading to the site and the maintenance of vault toilets and picnic tables. "I had a hard time getting my Chevy Traverse up. Everyone else had Toyotas or...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend using all-wheel or four-wheel drive vehicles to navigate the steep dirt road and preparing for a pack-it-in, pack-it-out experience. "I wouldn't take a sedan; you'd definitely need...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
User experiences peak during warmer months when outdoor activities like hiking and fishing can be enjoyed. However, winter conditions may limit accessibility and recreational options.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Love the place, it is so quiet and clean!!! Wonderful place to go camping, our dogs love it too!!!" "The vaulted toilet was to be serviced every day and it was not." "Best campground we've stayed...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 in Loop LOPO received some criticism for maintenance issues - "The vaulted toilet was to be serviced every day and it was not." However, the site is described as a perfect family campsite.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility issues stem from the steep, rough dirt road leading to the campground, which may pose challenges for individuals with disabilities or certain vehicle types.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed at the campground, but owners must adhere to strict rules such as keeping dogs leashed and cleaning up after them. "Wonderful place to go camping, our dogs love it too!!!" remarked...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025