This free dispersed campground requires a hike to reach sites scattered through forested terrain near Dog Lake. The US Forest Service manages the area within Wasatch National Forest, allowing campfires and providing cell service coverage. Sites sit near both the lake and a creek, offering access to water features in open and wooded settings.
Campers must pack in all gear and supplies since no developed facilities exist on-site. The hike-in access keeps crowds lighter than drive-up locations, though visitors should prepare for variable trail conditions. For additional camping options in the region, consider places to camp near Mounthaven. Plan to arrive with sufficient daylight for the approach hike and site selection.
Description
The Dog Lake Trail is a short side trip from either the Lake Mary Trail or the Clayton Peak Trail into the cirque of the small Dog Lake. Please be cautious of moose that live in the area. Do not approach any moose you encounter on or near trails. Moose may seem calm and tame, but they are not! Moose are wild and unpredictable. For your own safety, please avoid these animals. Please do not pick any wildflowers. Picking wildflowers prevents them from blooming the following year. Please leave them so that others may enjoy!
Salt Lake City Watershed Restrictions apply and are strictly enforced. Backcountry camping is not permitted within 200 ft of any open water (lakes, streams, etc). Pets are not allowed at all (not even in your car!). Swimming is not allowed in lakes or streams. Visitors must carry out everything they bring in, including food scraps and fruit peels. Follow general ""Leave No Trace"" guidelines for disposal of human waste. Pollution of any kind will not be accepted. Watershed regulations are enforced by the Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office, the Salt Lake City Water Department, the Salt Lake City - County Health Department, the US Forest Service, and the Alta Marshal's Office. Violations constitute a Class ""B"" misdemeanor and in most cases a citation is issued to violators.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingDog Lake Dispersed Campground is located in Utah
Coordinates
40.6664913 N
111.63926897 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Fires
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 Dog Lake Dispersed Campground needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 44 min from Salt Lake City, UT
- 1 hr 12 min from Ogden, UT
- 1 hr 12 min from Provo, UT
- 1 hr 56 min from Logan, UT



