Dixie National Forest manages Harris Rim & Stout Canyon Dispersed as free, drive-in camping along a rim that overlooks the canyon below. Sites here sit within a mix of forested and open terrain, and at least one spot offers direct views down into the canyon. The area draws campers heading to Zion or Bryce Canyon who want a no-cost overnight stop, and it works just as well for groups or rigs needing extra room.
Sites are large. Several reviewers note the spots can accommodate RVs and group setups, with enough spacing that campers can often find a site out of sight of their neighbors. Wind picks up in the afternoon but tends to settle after dark, and the tree cover provides reliable shade during the day. Free dispersed options near Dixie National Forest follow a similar pattern across this part of Utah, and Harris Rim fits comfortably within that tradition.
Wildlife is active here, particularly toward evening. Deer are commonly spotted at dusk, and the presence of predators in the area is worth keeping in mind when storing food. Cattle from a ranging herd also pass through. Cell service is confirmed by multiple visitors, including one who arrived after 10 p.m. and used data without issue. Nearby, Forest With a View and FR 063 - Dixie NF Dispersed provide additional options along the same corridor.
As Joe M. notes, there are "plenty of trees to block the sun out," which makes this a reasonable choice for campers who want shade, reliable cell coverage, and large sites without a fee.
Description
Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a developed campground. Dispersed camping is free, therefore no services or facilities are provided; such as trash removal, tables, and fire pits. In some popular dispersed camping areas, camping is limited to designated sites only.
What is Dispersed Camping? Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a developed campground. In some popular dispersed camping areas, camping is limited to designated sites only. Dispersed camping is free, therefore no services; such as trash removal, and little or no facilities; such as tables and fire pits, are provided.
There are extra responsibilities and skills that are necessary for dispersed camping. It is your responsibility to know these before you go camping. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers.
Be sure to check the Alerts and Closure pages as some areas maybe temporarily closed or restricted. Other Areas maybe restricted to designated sites only, maps can be found in our free map section.
Rules for Dispersed Camping Motorized vehicle use for the purpose of dispersed camping is only allowed 150 feet from any designated route to limit resource damage. Use existing campsites. Groups of over 75 people for non-commercial use, who wish to use the forest, need to obtain a special use permit. There is no fee and permits can be obtained at the nearest Forest Service Office. You need to be self-contained. No amenities are provided; such as water, restrooms or trash cans. You may camp in a dispersed area for up to 16 days. After 16 days, you must move at least 10 miles for camping in another dispersed area. Please place your campsite at least 300 feet from any stream or other water source. Please place your campsite at least 300 feet from any livestock corrals from from 05/01 - 11/15. Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter. Follow Leave No Trace principals. Contact a local Forest Service office to see if any fire restrictions are in place. Where Can I Disperse Camp? Many people drive out on Forest Service roads into the woods and find a clearing or a spot near a stream or with a view of the mountains. Visitors are encouraged to use existing camp sites. Typically, dispersed camping is NOT allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas, or trailheads. Dispersed camping is not allowed within one mile of developed campgrounds. Motorized vehicle use for the purpose of dispersed camping is only allowed 150 feet from any designated route to limit resource damage. Use existing campsites. Visitors are encouraged to use one path of ingress and egress to prevent resource damage.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsHarris Rim & Stout Canyon Dispersed is located in Utah near Alton
Dispersed CampingCoordinates
37.489375 N
112.56516 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 16 usersLast on 9/12/26
VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 17 usersLast on 9/12/26- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 9/12/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 16 usersLast on 9/12/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 17 usersLast on 9/12/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 9/12/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
- Equestrian
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.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 24 min from St. George, UT
- 3 hrs 6 min from Las Vegas, NV
- 3 hrs 18 min from Provo, UT
- 3 hrs 53 min from Flagstaff, AZ
