MINERAL BASIN DISPERSED AREA

Closed — This dispersed camping area is not available for overnight use. Salt Lake City watershed protections prohibit camping within 1/2 mile of any road in Big Cottonwood Canyon except in designated campgrounds. Additionally, winter road closures typically occur from October through May.

About

Mineral Basin Dispersed Area is situated in Big Cottonwood Canyon within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, approximately 14 miles up State Highway 190 from the Salt Lake Valley. This high-elevation area near Mineral Fork is subject to strict watershed protection regulations implemented by Salt Lake City Public Utilities, which prohibit overnight camping, car camping, or sleeping in vehicles within 1/2 mile of any road in the Cottonwood Canyons, with exceptions only for designated Forest Service campgrounds. The area experiences significant seasonal limitations. During winter months, heavy snowfall closes roads beyond Brighton Resort, and the canyon becomes a destination primarily for skiing and winter sports at nearby resorts. The South Guardsman Pass Road that extends further up the canyon typically remains closed from October through May due to snow accumulation. Summer access is possible when roads reopen, but the watershed camping restrictions remain in effect year-round. Due to these regulations, dispersed camping opportunities in this specific area are effectively prohibited. Campers seeking overnight accommodations in Big Cottonwood Canyon should use designated campgrounds such as Spruces, Jordan Pines, or Redman, which operate seasonally and accept reservations through Recreation.gov.

Directions

From Salt Lake City, take I-215 to the 6200 South exit. Travel east to Wasatch Boulevard, then south to the junction with Big Cottonwood Canyon Road (SR-190). Head east up Big Cottonwood Canyon. The Mineral Basin area is located in the upper reaches of the canyon near Mineral Fork.

Nearby Campgrounds