Within Dixie National Forest, Great Western Trail Dispersed provides free camping along a network of dirt roads just minutes from Bryce Canyon National Park. This Forest Service area operates as true dispersed camping, with no designated sites, amenities, or facilities. Campers create their own spots along forest roads 088, 090, and 1173, with many choosing clearings that already contain rock fire rings left by previous visitors.
The area accommodates various camping styles, from tent setups tucked back in the trees to RVs parked along the main access roads. Anthony P. found the roads "fairly well maintained" and suitable for trailers, though Greg L. notes they are "native dirt little gravel and can be rough and rutted so beware in wet conditions." Multiple campers report good cell service throughout the area, with some getting 5G coverage.
Wildlife activity occurs regularly after dark, particularly around tent areas. The forest roads extend for miles, offering numerous camping options at varying distances from the highway. Some spots require 4WD access for the most secluded locations, while others remain accessible to standard vehicles when conditions are dry. Fire restrictions apply seasonally, with camping closures affecting specific road segments during high fire danger periods.
Access involves driving 10-15 minutes down dirt roads from Highway 12, with the closest sites appearing within the first mile. The 16-day camping limit applies throughout the area. Greg L. confirms "No water, tables, trash" are available, making this strictly pack-in, pack-out camping. Campers seeking developed amenities can find alternatives at Dave's Hollow nearby.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsGreat Western Trail Dispersed is located in Utah near Fern Ridge Lake
Coordinates
37.67091921295418 N
112.20276497128101 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 6/30/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 13 usersLast on 6/30/26
- AT&TLTEGood CoverageVerified by 18 usersLast on 6/30/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 6/30/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 13 usersLast on 6/30/26
- AT&TLTEGood CoverageVerified by 18 usersLast on 6/30/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Great Western Trail Dispersed needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 4 min from St. George, UT
- 3 hrs 13 min from Provo, UT
- 3 hrs 46 min from Las Vegas, NV
- 4 hrs 27 min from Flagstaff, AZ



































