About Simpson Springs Campground
(Attention campers: Simpson Springs Campground will be closed for construction from Aug. 1, 2021 through Nov. 30, 2021) Near the site of the Simpson Springs station on the Pony Express Trail, 5100 foot elevation, 20sites, 1-11 are available on recreation.gov, 12-19 is first come, first served sites, $15 per night, tables, fire pits, two vehicles per site, 8 persons per site, maximum equipment size: 30 feet, pit toilets, potable water available March to November, no firewood, partial shade at most sites, open year-round. https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/256892
How to Get There
From State Route 36 near Faust, turn west on the Pony Express Road and drive 25 miles to campground on maintained gravel road. From Interstate 80, take Dugway-Rowley Exit 77, drive south on State Route 196 to Dugway, continue south 10 miles on maintained dirt road to Pony Express Road, turn left or west onto Pony Express Road for 10 miles to 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 Simpson Springs Campground
Heading to Simpson Springs Campground? 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 Simpson Springs Campground?
Yes — reservations can be made on Recreation.gov. Popular sites fill quickly, especially weekends and holidays. Book up to 6 months in advance.
How do I get to Simpson Springs Campground?
From State Route 36 near Faust, turn west on the Pony Express Road and drive 25 miles to campground on maintained gravel road. From Interstate 80, take Dugway-Rowley Exit 77, drive south on State Route 196 to Dugway, continue south 10 miles on maintained dirt road to Pony Express Road, turn left or west onto Pony Express Road for 10 miles to campground.
How do I contact Simpson Springs Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: (801) 977-4300.
References & Official Resources
