Best Dispersed Camping near Colorado City, AZ

Several dispersed camping areas exist near Colorado City, Arizona, primarily located on BLM land in southwestern Utah. Free camping options include North Creek Dispersed Camping, Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed, Gooseberry Mesa, Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed sites, Dalton Wash Dispersed, and Mount Carmel Old 89 Dispersed Camping. These primitive camping areas typically feature no amenities such as drinking water, electricity, or restroom facilities, but most allow fires when no fire restrictions are in place. Pets are permitted at all locations, and most areas accommodate both tent and RV camping.

Road conditions vary significantly across these dispersed camping areas. Many sites require navigation on unpaved, washboard roads with sandy or rocky terrain. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for several locations, particularly Gooseberry Mesa and Dalton Wash, where steep inclines and rough terrain present challenges. According to one visitor, "Road in was bad washboard first few miles. At the turn it gets better." While standard vehicles can access some areas during dry weather, four-wheel drive is advisable during wet conditions or for reaching more remote sites. Camping is permitted for up to 14 days in most areas, following standard BLM regulations.

These dispersed sites feature remarkable scenery, with many offering views of nearby mountains, mesas, and Zion National Park. Gooseberry Mesa provides particularly impressive vistas, with one camper noting "Incredible views of Smithsonian Butte. Amazing sunset and sunrise!" The area around Hurricane Cliffs and Kolob Terrace Road offers multiple established sites with fire rings spaced well apart for privacy. Weather considerations include strong winds, especially in open areas. Cell phone reception varies by location but is surprisingly good at some sites, including Gooseberry Mesa where one reviewer mentioned "Very strong (20mbps) cell reception on both ATT and T-Mobile." Wildlife sightings may include coyotes, especially at night, and campers should be aware of potential encounters with rattlesnakes and scorpions in warmer months.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Colorado City, Arizona (108)

    1. North Creek Dispersed Camping

    46 Reviews
    Virgin, UT
    20 miles
    Website

    "There’s of shade from the trees and a beautiful creek. We arrived at around 3pm and no one was around. By 5pm a good amount of people started driving in a picking their spots."

    "Went to the right from the entrance all the way to end next to a private property. It’s really quiet and more secluded. You see other campers but you have privacy and your own place."

    2. Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed

    38 Reviews
    Virgin, UT
    19 miles
    Website

    "There are no fees but also no amenities. So please, if you pack it in then you need to pack it out. Bring plenty of water for drinking and cleaning."

    "Great camping close to Zion! There are some shaded spots but they get taken quick. There were lots of spots out in the open and we ended up at one of those."

    3. Gooseberry Mesa

    10 Reviews
    Rockville, UT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 688-3200

    "After seeing how crowded hurricane cliffs were, camped on the left fork after the Windmill trailhead. Gooseberry mesa biking is incredible."

    "As soon as you turn off the freeway, it's washboard all the way until you turn left onto Wire Mesa Trailhead. From there, it's slow moving but nothing major."

    4. BLM Road #71 Gravel Pit Dispersed - BLM

    28 Reviews
    Mount Carmel Junction, UT
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 688-3200

    "This area is up BLM Road #71 and was the old hwy. The actual main camping area is an old gravel pit area but views are great, solar is plentiful."

    "You could easily use this as a base to explore Zion if you dont mind no facilities. The view was spectacular, and our spot had an already made fire pit."

    5. Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed sites 40-48

    16 Reviews
    Virgin, UT
    20 miles

    "Our class B camper van made it fine on the uneven terrain. Just go slow. The snow had melted from the previous day by the sun so it didn’t affect us. Easy to find a spot. Beautiful sun rises!"

    "Found a nice little campsite that fit two camper vans. In a bit of depression, out of the wind. Woke up to a wonderful view."

    6. Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed

    15 Reviews
    Virgin, UT
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 688-3200

    "arrived in the dark but we were able to find a site in the 30’s range- loved it especially when we woke up in the morning and saw the view. we stayed a second night tucked into a ravine next to some boulders"

    "Sites 1-12 PROS: 

    Stunning views

    Free 14 day - although in 14 days we never saw anyone check

    Verizon & ATT 4-5 bars even with no booster

    Wide open, strong solar all but 1 day

    20m to Zion NP,"

    7. Mt Carmel Old 89 Dispersed Camping

    23 Reviews
    Mount Carmel Junction, UT
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 644-1200

    "The road is rough I would recommend a high clearance vehicle to be able to drive farther. We don't have that so we were limited on how far we were willing to drive down the rough dirt road."

    "Take the exit from 89 and cross the remnants of the old 89 road. You will find several spots with previously used fire rings."

    8. Dalton Wash Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Virgin, UT
    18 miles

    "Good camping site, would recommend a 4WD or AWD vehicle. The road up is steep and narrow, passing a lot of private property. Sites are out in the open, no shade."

    "While you don’t need 4x4 during dry months, it will help with the drive. It’s steep, loose dirt until you start hitting rocks."

    9. Wire Mesa

    4 Reviews
    Rockville, UT
    13 miles

    "This location was amazing great sunset views of the Peaks I'm getting there was a little off-road may need high clearance"

    "If you go past the no camping 1/2 mile signs there are plenty of options in this area for dispersed camping so keep driving at least 1/2 mile from those signs."

    10. Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed Sites 20-35 spur

    12 Reviews
    Virgin, UT
    20 miles
    Website

    "No amenities except the bathroom at the trailhead a mile away. A good spot overall, some traffic down this road as I think the Virgin Dam Trailhead is towards the end of this spur road."

    "Great views and the camping spots are a good distance apart. There is a pit toilet near by."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Colorado City, AZ

572 Reviews of 108 Colorado City Campgrounds


  • R
    Dec. 1, 2024

    BLM Navajo Rd Dispersed

    Open, high land that’s awkward to get to

    At the far corner of an unassuming neighborhood, there’s a dirt road with a couple signs saying no shooting and no camping. They’re referring to the first three miles of that road. It’s a narrow road with unusually high walls but easy to drive. Make sure you go all 3 miles until you reach the big classic BLM Public Lands sign after which is the start of your options. There’s a few quite large turnoffs with fire pits

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 15, 2021

    Leeds Canyon Dispersed #2

    Overlander site only

    Leeds Canyon Dispersed camp sites are on the Dixie NF. Lower dispersed sites 1-6 are easiest to get into with a TT. Camp in designated spots, camping free for 16 days. No water, no trash, no toilets. Sites are along a well maintained FS gravel road so dust may be a concern. Only a few miles outside of Leeds and Interstate 15.

    Leeds Canyon #2 is behind #1 a hundred yards but requires high clearance and 4wd to access....no TT or RVs. Nice big open area with views for the overlander types

  • K
    Jun. 13, 2022

    Old Highway 89 Dispersed BLM Site

    Quiet camping spot close to Kanab and east entrance of Zion

    We loved this free camping area! 

    There aren't tons of spots(most of it is an open area), but we never had an issue getting one, even during spring break. 

    It's close to Kanab and the east entrance of Zion.

    Please Leave No Trace! Take care of this place so it can be enjoyed by many for as long as possible!

  • Kevin S.
    Nov. 1, 2021

    Forest Service #247 Road Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful, spacious area right off the 89A

    We decided to disperse camp for the weekend of Halloween. Weather was beautiful, but cold during the evening due to the moisture in the air. The location is literally a few minutes off the 89A, not too hard to miss the service road turn off. We checked out the other sites about a mile in and everything was a little wet/muddy, so we decided to set camp at this location. According to Kaibab NF MVUM, dispersed camping is allowed along open FS roads (https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/kaibab/maps-pubs/?cid=fseprd490027)..)

    Space is very open with trees surrounding the area. This spot has a trail nearby, so we had seen a few hikers throughout the weekend. Previous campers created a firepit, but make sure to check with the North Kaibab rangers on fire restrictions (https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/kaibab/alerts-notices)..). Surprisingly decent cell service(Tmobile/AT&T).

    About an hour and half to Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. Along our trip there, we also went to Vermillion Cliffs/Marble Canyon. Very beautiful, must see places.

  • M
    Sep. 28, 2020

    Dispersed Camping in Dixie National Forest - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    Secluded atmosphere. Great Views.

    I stayed in dispersed camping spot #5 arriving on August 31st, 2020. There are 11 or 12 designated spots here. There is a sign on the right side once you enter the Forest Service Road that maps all the hiking trails and dispersed camping sites available in the Leeds Creek dispersed camping area. No 4x4 is necessary to get to spots 1- 5. I didn't go all the way up the mountain and see the other spots. The entrance to spot 5 is a horseshoe shape big enough and convenient for an RV. However, for tent campers, you will want to go beyond the bushes for wind coverage and privacy. The space opens up with trails, amazing views, you can here the creek burbling below the canyon. Spectacular stargazing at night and pretty quiet aside from some road traffic. NOTE: tent campers; park your vehicle with visibility in the horseshoe drive in to avoid unbeknownst camp crashers. The coverage is good enough for tent campers that someone could easily believe the campsite was not taken. Also, bees like your trashbag. So, keep it in your vehicle rather than hanging it. Lastly, sadly there was A LOT of litter when I visited. I did my best to clean some of it up while I was there. Please remember to pack in/pack out and leave no trace!!

  • Alan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 30, 2019

    Dalton Wash Dispersed

    Great free camping with a view of Zion!

    Ill start off by saying that you should probably have an AWD or 4WD high clearance vehicle for the upper campsites.  There are campsites lower on but are right next to the road.  Getting there you'll want to follow Dalton Wash Rd all the way to the plateau, staying left the whole way unless its private property.

    There are no bathrooms or amenities here so either come prepared or take care of business before heading up or inbetween excursions.  The good thing from that is you'll be pretty secluded! (Cant speak for the peak months as we visited in May)  The upper campsites are ~45 minutes from Zion with the lower sites being only 30 minutes away!  Summer may not be the best time to visit as the sites are kind of exposed and theres not a ton of shade

  • Jenny&Tobias P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2023

    BLM Dispersed N Kolob Terrace Road

    Cottonwood Trees and a Creek

    Sandy and shady free Campground near Zion Natl Park. Easy access even with a car for the most spots. Crossing the creek there are more spots but not recommended without high clearance and 4x4. Beautiful sunset and shady in the morning. No highway noise. No fires permitted. Max stay 14 days. Love this place and the murmurs of the creek. Fills up very quickly around 6pm in the summer.

  • Marcie R.
    May. 11, 2020

    Mammoth Dispersed

    BEAUTIFUL

    Such a beautiful spot. Right next to Mammoth Creek surrounded by Dixie National Forest. Lots of sites and pull offs. No hookups or water but there are pit toilets. New favorite campsite!!

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2022

    BLM Road #71 Gravel Pit Dispersed - BLM

    Nice BLM Dispersed

    This area is up BLM Road #71 and was the old hwy. The actual main camping area is an old gravel pit area but views are great, solar is plentiful. Free BLM Dispersed, no signage, no water, no toilets, no trash. Cell was 1-2 5g bars for me. Road access is rough broken hwy pavement, just go slow. Second road on left to GP area.


Guide to Colorado City

Free dispersed camping near Colorado City, Arizona offers primitive wilderness experiences across the Utah-Arizona border with elevations ranging from 3,000 to 7,000 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F while winter nights can drop below freezing with occasional snow at higher elevations. The region's landscape features distinct red sandstone formations and juniper trees scattered across desert terrain.

What to do

Mountain biking trails: The area around Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed offers extensive mountain biking opportunities. "Heaps of room! Stars were fantastic!" notes one visitor at Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed sites 40-48. Multiple trailheads connect to an extensive network suitable for various skill levels.

Swimming holes: During summer months, Virgin River provides cooling relief just minutes from campsites. "20m to Zion NP, 2m to Virgin Falls Park for a dip in the river," reports a camper who stayed at Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed. River access points feature varying water depths, with some areas appropriate for children when water levels permit.

Stargazing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. At Wire Mesa, one visitor shared, "This location was amazing great sunset views of the Peaks." Bring red-light headlamps to preserve night vision while navigating camp after dark.

What campers like

Cellular connectivity: Several free camping areas offer surprisingly reliable cell service. One Gooseberry Mesa reviewer reported, "Very strong (20mbps) cell reception on both ATT and T-Mobile." This enables remote work while camping, with multiple visitors confirming usable service at most sites.

Established fire rings: Most dispersed sites include previously-used fire pits. "There are several different camps all with fire pits. It's bumpy but plenty of level ground to find once you get to the camp sites," notes a camper at Gooseberry Mesa. Remember to check current fire restrictions as they change seasonally.

Privacy between sites: Despite growing popularity, campsites maintain reasonable separation. At Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed Sites 20-35 spur, "Sites are spaced far enough apart to where you rarely even recognize movement from the other sites, but you don't really feel 'alone' if that is what you're after." Sites typically provide 50-100 yards between neighbors.

What you should know

Weather extremes: Wind represents a significant challenge in this region. One camper at Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed Sites 20-35 spur observed, "The one knock is the wind.. look, I get it, desert camping. On a mostly flat plain. Wind is going to be a thing." Secure all camping gear properly, especially at exposed sites.

Arrival timing: Popular areas fill quickly during peak seasons. "If you want a good spot, you should come really early. I got here at around 3 o'clock in the afternoon and it was almost full already," advises a camper at Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed sites 40-48. Midweek arrivals increase your chances of securing preferred spots.

Trash management: No facilities exist for waste disposal. "There's tons of spots! But the fields in and around the camp area are filled with human and animal poop...they really need to build some pit toilets or something out here because it is really gross!!" reports one visitor at Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed. Pack out all trash and human waste when possible.

Tips for camping with families

Accessible sites: For families with young children, choose locations with easier access. "You def need a higher up car to get to where I went. I have a Honda HRV and took it really slow and didn't have any issues," notes a Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed camper. Sites near main roads provide easier evacuation if needed.

Water activities: Creekside camping offers natural entertainment for children. At North Creek Dispersed Camping, "This site has numerous spots, most are close together but the campground was not full at all allowing plenty of space and privacy. There are sites on both sides of the creek." Creek depth varies seasonally.

Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for possible wildlife encounters. "We saw a few people dirt biking but it wasn't obnoxious by any means," reports a Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed camper. Scorpions and snakes require caution during warmer months, while coyotes may be heard at night.

Tips from RVers

Site selection for RVs: Choose sites carefully based on vehicle capabilities. At Mt Carmel Old 89 Dispersed Camping, "We took our 30ft RV up the hill right on top of what seems to be a sand pit of some sort. You could also follow the old 89 and find some spots in between the trees." Most areas accommodate medium-sized RVs when dry.

Level camping spots: Finding flat ground represents a significant challenge. "Fairly level sites with great views. Good cell service with verizon," reports a Gooseberry Mesa visitor. Bring leveling blocks as most sites require some adjustment for comfortable sleeping.

Road conditions: Access roads deteriorate regularly, especially after rain. At North Creek Dispersed Camping, "Road in is just a little tough but short. Did fine with a 25ft travel trailer. Riverside spots are mostly for vans/tents." Drive slowly and walk questionable sections before attempting with larger vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Colorado City, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Colorado City, AZ is North Creek Dispersed Camping with a 4.6-star rating from 46 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Colorado City, AZ?

TheDyrt.com has all 108 dispersed camping locations near Colorado City, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.