About BLACKHAWK
Overview Blackhawk Campground sits just off the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway at an elevation of 8,000 feet. Visitors enjoy the campground for its beautiful panoramic views and great trail opportunities.Recreation Numerous hiking, biking and horseback riding trails crisscross the area, including Blackhawk and Loafer Mountain Trails. Trailheads for each are located within the campground.Facilities This large, fully accessible campground contains a variety of campsites, including several group sites that can accommodate groups of up to 50 and 100 people each, equestrian sites and single and double-family sites. Loop E is made up of equestrian sites with corrals, hitching racks, water troughs and horseback riding trails. Sites are equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings; larger sites also have serving tables and grills. Flush toilets and drinking water are provided. Firewood is available for purchase from the host. Roads and parking spurs are paved.Natural Features The campground is studded with groves of fir, pine, aspen and Gambel oak trees, which provide partial shade and nice fall color. Broad grassy meadows cover the areas around the trees. Summer wildflowers and wildlife are abundant. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (385) 273-1100. Nearby Attractions The Payson Lakes Area is just 5 miles away, with rainbow and brown trout fishing, canoeing, swimming and picnicking. The Mount Nebo Wilderness Area is adjacent, 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. It offers a 1/2-mile round-trip trail to interesting red rock hoodoos.Charges & Cancellations Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dat
How to Get There
From I-15, take exit 250 toward North Payson/Salem and proceed south on Main Street, then turn east onto 100 North/Highway. Turn south onto 600 East, which becomes the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway/Payson Canyon Road. Travel up the canyon to the campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to BLACKHAWK
Heading to BLACKHAWK? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for BLACKHAWK?
No central reservation system listed for BLACKHAWK. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232227) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to BLACKHAWK?
From I-15, take exit 250 toward North Payson/Salem and proceed south on Main Street, then turn east onto 100 North/Highway. Turn south onto 600 East, which becomes the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway/Payson Canyon Road. Travel up the canyon to the campground.
How do I contact BLACKHAWK?
You can reach the park at phone: SPANISH FORK RANGER DISTRICT 801-798-3571 OR UTAH RECREATION COMPANY 385-273-1100 or email: comments@AmericanLL.com.
References & Official Resources
