Rock Canyon
3.587 reviewsUinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, Rock Canyon Campground Rd, Provo, UT 84604
Rock Canyon
$99.09 - $208.00 / 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$208.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group sites range from $99.09 to $208.00 during peak season (May 16 - September 27). Vehicle fees are $10 per extra vehicle, and firewood is available for $9 at the nearby Hope Campground.
About this campground
Tucked away at 6,500 feet along the winding Squaw Peak Road, Rock Canyon Campground offers an authentic backcountry experience for those seeking solitude in nature's embrace. This primitive camping haven beckons adventurers with four thoughtfully spaced group sites, each honoring the legacy of pioneering U.S. Forest Service figures who helped preserve these wild spaces. Whether you're drawn by world-class rock climbing routes, miles of hiking trails, or challenging mountain biking terrain, you'll find your basecamp here among the essentials: sturdy picnic tables, stone-ringed fire circles perfect for evening storytelling, serving tables for group meals, clean vault toilets, and well-maintained gravel roads that lead you into this mountain sanctuary.
Rock Canyon Campground offers primitive group camping accommodations suitable for larger gatherings.
Historical SignificanceEach campsite at Rock Canyon pays homage to the visionary U.S. Forest Service leaders who shaped America's conservation legacy, creating a camping experience steeped in the history of public land stewardship. From here, ancient trails wind upward toward Mount Timpanogos, the sacred giant of the Wasatch Range that has watched over these valleys for millennia. Indigenous peoples, early settlers, and generations of mountaineers have all been drawn to this commanding peak, making every journey from the campground a walk through layers of Utah's rich cultural tapestry.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Rock Canyon unfold under brilliant azure skies, with dry mountain air that carries the scent of pine and wildflowers. The reliable sunshine and moderate temperatures create ideal conditions for outdoor adventures from late spring through early fall. When winter arrives, the campground transforms into a quieter realm, occasionally dressed in blankets of fresh snow that dust the surrounding peaks and create a pristine wonderland for those hardy enough to embrace the season's beauty.
ElevationPerched at 6,500 feet where the mountain air turns refreshingly crisp, Rock Canyon Campground delivers that perfect alpine atmosphere where deep breaths feel restorative and morning coffee tastes exceptional. The elevation gifts visitors with spectacular vantage points and noticeably cooler temperatures—a welcome relief from valley heat in summer, though it demands warm layers when the sun dips behind the peaks. Here, you'll sleep closer to the stars and wake to air so pure it seems to sparkle in the early light.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of maple, scrub oak, and towering fir creates an ever-changing canopy overhead, filtering sunlight into golden patches that dance across the forest floor. In spring and summer, meadows burst with paintbrush wildflowers and columbines that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Just a short walk from camp, a spectacular viewpoint unveils a panorama that will stop you in your tracks—Rock Canyon spreads below in dramatic relief while Utah Valley stretches to the horizon, a view that transforms from amber sunrise to purple twilight in ways that cameras can never quite capture.
Geological RegionRock Canyon Campground serves as your gateway to the magnificent Wasatch Mountain Range and the pristine Mount Timpanogos Wilderness beyond. This dramatic landscape tells an ancient story written in stone—massive limestone cliffs rise from canyon floors, testament to prehistoric seas, while higher elevations reveal the artistry of ice age glaciers in perfectly carved cirques and rolling moraines. Summer unveils hidden waterfalls that tumble through hanging valleys, while alpine meadows bloom in impossible colors between weathered peaks that challenge climbers and inspire poets in equal measure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features for campers with disabilities are not explicitly described in the source materials.
Sites SizeRock Canyon group sites are designed for larger gatherings, with some sites accommodating up to 90 individuals.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as isolated and remote, providing a sense of privacy due to dense tree cover and its forested location.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesHigh-clearance vehicles are recommended due to rough terrain. Avoid bringing trailers as they may sustain damage.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in available after 7 AM.
Check-out
Check-out required by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
- A2-night minimum stay is required on weekends
- 3-night minimum stay on holiday weekends.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group sites accommodate up to 90 people.
Groups
The campground has four group sites accommodating 45 to 90 individuals, named after notable U.S. Forest Service figures.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutFour group sites are distributed across gravel roads and parking spurs, with serving tables and picnic areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16 - September 27. Reservations begin June 25.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-ins and first-come-first-serve options are not available for these sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations within 14 days of the arrival date forfeit the first night's use fee and incur a $10 cancellation fee. No-shows will be charged a $20 fee and forfeit the first night’s use 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
Rock Canyon provides a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities such as hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. Its trails and climbing routes are highly praised.
Hiking
Hiking is available via the Rock Canyon Trail, which begins within the campground, and the Squaw Peak Trail accessible nearby. These trails offer excellent opportunities to explore scenic views and rugged terrain.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Biking
Mountain biking is available, with Squaw Peak Road open to bikers. Trails are described as scenic and challenging.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities exist in the surrounding Mount Timpanogos Wilderness, including sightings of Rocky Mountain goats, mule deer, elk, and moose.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not directly mentioned, though the surrounding area might offer opportunities for snow-based recreation.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not applicable to this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Fireworks are strictly prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsBear country regulations apply; food and trash must be stored securely to avoid wildlife encounters. The campground has no water availability, requiring campers to bring their own.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.2 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
Pleasant Grove Ranger District (801-785-3563); Utah Recreation Company office (385-273-1100); hospitals and police stations are located in Provo, UT.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 27 (peak season); September 27 - May 08 (no booking available).
Trash and recyclingThis is a 'pack it in, pack it out' facility, meaning campers are responsible for removing all trash and personal items when they leave.
Proximity to water featuresNo water features available onsite. Campers must bring their own drinking and utility water.
Common complaints"Getting there is a complete nightmare," noted one reviewer due to the rough dirt roads. Another review highlighted peeling tables and slanted tent sites. Limited signage was also mentioned.
HostA host is located at nearby Hope Campground.
Campground Map
Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, Rock Canyon Campground Rd, Provo, UT 84604
Driving directionsFrom I-15, take exit 272 toward 800 North/Highway 52. Proceed east on 800 North to the mouth of Provo Canyon. Go left into the canyon on Highway 189 for 2 miles to the Squaw Peak Road turnoff. Turn right onto Squaw Peak Road and continue 9.5 miles to the campground. The first 5 miles of Squaw Peak Road are paved. The last 4.5 miles to the campground are on maintained dirt/gravel.
The first 5 miles of Squaw Peak Road are paved, but the last 4.5 miles transition to maintained dirt/gravel. Several user reviews mention extremely rough terrain; trailers experienced damage, and travel speeds were often under 5 miles per hour.Nearby places
Provo (9.5 miles via Squaw Peak Road)
American Fork Canyon and Provo Canyon are also nearby.
Nearby supplies
Essential supplies, groceries, and fuel are available in Provo, UT. Firewood ($9) is sold at Hope Campground.
Camper Reviews
3.6
7 reviews
Rock Canyon has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Rock Canyon Campground emphasize its scenic beauty and isolation, but point out challenges such as the rough access road and limited facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive comments include the stunning scenery, quiet camping environment, and excellent hiking and climbing opportunities.
Based on 7 reviewsCommon Concerns
Negative feedback focuses on the rough condition of Squaw Peak Road, lack of clear signage within the campground, and maintenance issues with picnic tables and tent sites.
Based on 7 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations from campers include traveling in vehicles with high clearance, avoiding trailers, bringing sufficient water, and preparing for rocky or slanted tent sites.
Based on 7 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season due to hiking and climbing opportunities, though some winter campers noted challenges with weather conditions.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The site itself is beautiful, and I'd go back tomorrow if it wasn't for the location. Getting there is a complete nightmare." - Review by TANNA W. "The scenery is beautiful and there’s plenty of...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site Vivian West is noted as difficult to access due to road conditions. Aldo Leopold site has slanted tent areas, making sleeping uncomfortable. Albert F. Potter site was praised for its fire pit...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviews do not specifically address accessibility features for disabled individuals.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but must be leashed and owners are required to clean up after their dogs. Users appreciated the pet-friendly policy but noted the need for compliance with rules.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025