Dispersed camping sites near West Wendover extend across Utah's west desert with the Silver Island Mountains area typically recording summer daytime temperatures of 90-100°F and nighttime lows of 60-70°F. The region sits at approximately 4,300 feet elevation, featuring hard-packed alkaline soil with minimal vegetation beyond scattered sagebrush and greasewood.
What to do
Explore unique rock formations: The Silver Island Mountain area contains numerous geological features with interesting formations. As Niko L. noted about Volcano Peak Campground, "Campsite was clean, private, and felt relatively safe. I was there on a Tuesday/Wednesday and saw several other campers nearby but none too close for comfort."
Sunrise photography sessions: Early risers can capture spectacular images of the sun rising over the salt flats. According to Georgia L. at Silver Island Mountains by Bonneville Salt Flats, "Camped here to go onto the salt flats for sunrise was a beautiful place. A few people parked here but were far enough away to have privacy, great free place to camp if visiting the salt flats."
Rock hounding: Search for interesting geological specimens in the mountain areas. Alan B. reports, "If you want to rock hound there are better pieces of multicolored agate high up near the ridges of the range. There are still some lower on the slopes but are mostly clear to white from being thoroughly picked over."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many campers appreciate the isolation of dispersed sites. At Lost Boys Peak Campsite, Philip D. observed, "The surrounding hills have trails for days if you have a dirtbike or atv/utv and want to explore. It is parallel to the famous Bonneville Salt Flats."
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. Ray W. shared that at Volcano Peak Campground, "The wind settled at night and the stars were highly visible due to little light pollution. You can honestly pick your own adventure and there's plenty of space to be far away from other campers."
Geology and landscape diversity: The contrast between salt flats and mountains creates unique visual experiences. Marcus K. described the scenery: "You have the mountains in the back and the salt flats in front of you. Very beautiful and calm. There are plenty of spots and you will barely see your neighbors."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads have challenging surfaces. Kristina W. mentioned about BLM by Salt Flats: "This spot has gorgeous views of the flats and the mountains. However, it can get windy. It was 6-8 mph winds when we stayed and our rooftop tent was not exactly happy about it."
Wildlife concerns: Be aware of local fauna including rodents and reptiles. Joshua E. warned, "Would not recommend whistling at night as evil spirits may snatch up any loose gear left unattended. Would recommend the more adventurous campsites. Only mildly haunted."
Weather preparedness: Temperature extremes and high winds are common. Ray W. noted, "It's quite a windy place, so dinner and breakfast were tough, but the wind settled at night."
Self-sufficiency requirements: No services are available at dispersed sites. At BLM Site next to Salt Flats, Michael R. confirmed: "Easy to find, very few people and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape! There weren't any actual 'sites' but you can set up most anywhere."
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly guidelines: All dispersed camping areas near West Wendover are dog friendly campgrounds with no specific pet restrictions, but keeping pets under control is essential due to wildlife. At the Nugget RV Park, Tommy H. noted it's "Pretty basic but good for short term. It's just a small cup de sac of about 15 spots at most."
Entertainment options: Without amenities, plan activities for children. Brian mentioned about Dispersed Site at the Base of A Hill: "Never saw another human but still had verizon cell service. So quiet, beautiful stars."
Safety considerations: With remote locations comes additional responsibility. Ashley L. warns, "Rodents chewed through our windshield fluid lines and god knows what else. Very unfortunate lol. 10/10 other than that so just be aware."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Most sites require effort to level vehicles. Skyeriver at Volcano Peak noted, "There are a few constructed flat spots but the remaining 99% of dispersed is unlevel somewhat but nothing a little wiggle can't fix."
Access for larger vehicles: Not all areas accommodate big rigs. Grayson shared about BLM by Salt Flats: "The road is about what you would expect from a BLM Road which is bumpy and about 25 mph for most cars."
Wind protection strategies: Position RVs to minimize wind exposure. Marcus K. observed, "The access road is a pain for any motor home or any vehicle for that matter. It got that wash board feeling and I was afraid it might rip appart my RV when I was going over pedestrian speeds."
