Camp Spring (Washington County, Utah) facts for kids

Camp Spring is a natural spring located in Washington County, Utah. It sits about 3,435 feet (1,047 meters) above sea level on the land of the Shivwits Band of Paiutes, a Native American tribe. A spring is a place where underground water flows out of the ground, creating a natural water source.

Camp Spring: A Historic Oasis

Camp Spring was once a very important stop for travelers. It served as a campsite along a major wagon route known as the Mormon Road. This road connected Salt Lake City, Utah, all the way to Los Angeles, California.

Why Was Camp Spring Important?

Imagine traveling across a dry landscape in the past. Finding fresh water was essential for survival! Camp Spring provided that vital water for people and their animals. It was first mentioned in a travel guide called the Mormon Waybill in 1851, showing how well-known it was even then.

The Mormon Road Connection

The Mormon Road was a busy path used by many people, especially pioneers and settlers moving between Utah and California. Camp Spring offered a much-needed break and a chance to rest and refill water supplies during long journeys.

The Old Spanish Trail

Before the Mormon Road, Camp Spring might have also been a stop on the Old Spanish Trail. This was a famous trade route used by traders and explorers. The spring is located along a small stream called Calabacillas Arroyo. This name means "Little wild squash stream" in Spanish and was given by Antonio Armijo, an early explorer. This stream led up to Utah Hill Summit, where the old trail and later the Mormon Road crossed the Beaver Dam Mountains. From there, travelers would go from the Santa Clara River to the Virgin River near what is now Littlefield, Arizona.