Utah / Juab County / Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

Ponderosa Uinta

Closed — Closed for the winter season. The campground typically closes around November and reopens seasonally, generally in late May or early June depending on snow conditions and road access. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Ponderosa Campground is nestled in scenic Bear Canyon just off the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway at an elevation of 6,200 feet, approximately 10 miles from Nephi, Utah. The campground is named for its towering grove of Ponderosa pines, which were planted in 1914, and the campground itself was built in 1933. Aspen and maple trees dot the landscape beneath the pines, providing plentiful shade and privacy between sites, with autumn foliage putting on quite a show. Salt Creek runs alongside the campground, offering rainbow trout fishing opportunities. The Bear Canyon Trail, suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, begins at the nearby Bear Canyon Campground. The Mount Nebo Wilderness Area is adjacent to the campground, brimming with beautiful mountain scenery, pristine waters, abundant wildlife, vibrant summer wildflowers, and numerous trail opportunities. The Nebo Loop Scenic Byway stretches 37 miles through high alpine terrain, dense forests, and colorful meadows. Devil's Kitchen Geological Area can be found along the loop, just 6 miles from the campground, offering a half-mile round-trip trail to interesting red rock hoodoos. Mount Nebo, at 11,877 feet, is the highest peak along the Wasatch Front and towers over the area.

Directions

From I-15, take Nephi exit 225. Travel about 6 miles east on Highway 132 (Nephi Canyon) to the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway. Turn left onto the byway and travel 3.5 miles to Bear Canyon turnoff. Turn left and drive 0.5 miles to the campground.

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