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Savage Gulf offers over 70 backcountry campsites across the park. A Permit must be obtained through the park for all backcountry hiking. Coordinates listed on CampingInUSA are reflective of park entrance and not the trailhead.
Collins West Campground offers six backcountry campsites with a maximum occupancy of six per campsite.
Entering from the Savage Gulf South parking lot; campground is 0.5 miles via the Collins access trail. There is a seasonal spring nearby. Water may not be available during dry conditions.
What a great backcountry campsite that's only a half mile walk that's almost level. If you're new to backpacking, this is your ideal first and easy step. I chose it because there was snow forecast and I wanted some creature comforts that meant extra weight.
There's a pit toilet (outhouse) which is so much better than digging a cat hole. There was TP in there but bring your own just in case.
Campsite #3 is the best in my opinion. What a great view of the canyon! #2 is a decent runner-up. #4 is the least desirable because the short spur trail going to the overlook cuts almost directly upon its fire pit, and non-campers want to go there for an easy hike.
The spring is close, but when I gathered water for filtering, there had been rain the day before, and the water tasted bad. It was probably from local runoff, but it also made me a bit sick. Being so close to the parking lot, I went to the local grocery and brought back a gallon of water. It may not be that way on an average day, but the spring is described as "seasonal", so I'd recommend just bringing your own.
The campsite is also a fairly easy walk down to Suter Falls. It's a bit of a climb coming back up but suitable for children or relatively able adults.
Hope you enjoy as much as I did!
Camp ground was clean and well taken care of. Bathroom was only an old out house so be prepared for no running water at all. We stayed 4 days and had a great time.
