Best Dispersed Camping near American Fork, UT

American Fork, UT is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Utah camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near American Fork, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near American Fork, Utah (66)

    1. Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    19 Reviews
    Saratoga Springs, UT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "Great option just south of salt lake. The lake and Mountain View are beautiful! Pretty flat, the road in is fairly easy."

    "Landed with large windows facing lake, lovely.

    Starlink is a little slower, but maybe cos I am roaming. 60 meg down, 7 or 8 meg up."

    2. Squaw Peak Road Dispersed

    15 Reviews
    Provo, UT
    12 miles

    "Getting here can be challenging, very steep incline , tight corners , and some spots have bumpy dirt roads."

    "This site is deep past the meadows near square peak. You continue to follow the dirt road in and on your left is a small depression in the land with a fire pit and ample space for tents or hammocks."

    3. Miners Canyon BLM

    11 Reviews
    Saratoga Springs, UT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "Tents, pillows, sleeping bags, glass, etc."

    "I arrived in the evening and was greeted with an incredible view: a vast lake backed by snowcapped mountains glowing in the light from the setting sun; the lights from Provo, the city across the lake,"

    4. Salamander Flat

    8 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    10 miles
    Website

    $10 / night

    "My boyfriend and I car camped here for the first time and it was great! There are multiple spots to set up camp with private fire pits and trails nearby."

    "I actually stayed a bit earlier on (at a trailhead parking lot; didn’t see any signs that said I couldn’t) down the road because this section of the road was closed and I just have to say what a fantastic"

    5. Cascade Springs Dispersed Site

    8 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    13 miles
    Website

    "The views are great but the road is definitely washed out. You will need 4WD and high clearance to pass through the washouts and rocks which start near the entrance and go all the way to the top."

    "There was a weird spot when Google maps told us to go right (staying on the paved road) while there was an "alternate" route up a dirt road to the coordinates on the dyrt."

    6. Sawmill Picnic

    4 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    8 miles
    Website

    "Second all slots are extremely close to Alpine road. Wonderful day spot, bummer we couldn’t stay the night!"

    7. Mineral Basin Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Alta, UT
    16 miles

    $6 / night

    "Campground Review: Mineral Basin is located in the Wasatch Mountains to the East of Salt Lake City."

    "The ride up to mineral basin was dirt roads with amazing views. The campsite we settled on was absolutely beautiful."

    8. Lone Peak Cirque Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Alpine, UT
    11 miles

    "I've been wanting to summit Lone Peak since I first moved to Utah in 2012. "

    9. Soldier's Pass Utah Backcountry

    6 Reviews
    Eagle Mountain, UT
    16 miles

    "Set up was easy, drove past the BLM sign about half a mile and stayed on a flat open area. Mosquitos were terrible, bring bug spray! Happy camping!"

    10. Eagle Mountain Dispersed

    1 Review
    Eagle Mountain, UT
    10 miles

    "This is BLM. A couple of different camping sites. Most have fire rings but no water or bathrooms. You will need a 4x4 with high clearance to get up the mountain (the road is rough)."

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Showing results 1-10 of 66 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near American Fork, UT

228 Reviews of 66 American Fork Campgrounds



Guide to American Fork

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near American Fork, Utah, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, these locations offer the perfect escape for adventurers.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near American Fork, Utah

  • Many dispersed camping areas, like Miner's Canyon Dispersed, allow campfires, making it easy to enjoy evenings under the stars.
  • Be prepared for rough roads; for instance, the access to Squaw Peak Road Dispersed can be bumpy, so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended.
  • Always check for permits; some areas, such as Cascade Springs Dispersed Site, require a permit for camping, so plan ahead.

Scenic views and wildlife for dispersed campers

  • The breathtaking views at Mineral Basin Dispersed make it a popular choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
  • Campers at Pittsburg Lake Dispersed can enjoy excellent stargazing opportunities, especially during clear nights.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife; many visitors have reported sightings of deer and other animals while camping at Albion Basin - Dispersed.

Dispersed campers should check out Miners Canyon BLM

  • Miners Canyon BLM offers a variety of camping spots with stunning views of Utah Lake, perfect for those seeking a picturesque backdrop.
  • This area is known for its spacious sites, allowing campers to find a secluded spot away from others, enhancing the experience of solitude.
  • Be cautious of the local environment; some campers have noted issues with litter, so it's essential to practice Leave No Trace principles while enjoying the beauty of the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping in American Fork Canyon?

American Fork Canyon offers several free dispersed camping options. Cascade Springs Dispersed Site provides excellent views but requires 4WD and high clearance vehicles due to washed-out roads with rocks from the entrance to the top. Another option is Skyline Drive, accessible via a dirt road near the Ghost town remnants of Tucker, Utah. It features a creek, multiple pull-in camping spots, and interesting rock formations. When dispersed camping in American Fork Canyon, always practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and be prepared for primitive conditions with no facilities.

Are there any fees or permits required for camping in American Fork Canyon?

While many dispersed camping areas in American Fork Canyon are free, some nearby areas do require fees. At Duchesne Tunnel Campground, the Forest Service charges $10 for 3 days or $20 per week. Most true dispersed sites don't have direct fees, but you may need to purchase a recreation pass for parking in certain areas of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. For example, at Dispersed Camping Willow Spring, camping is free as an alternative to nearby paid campgrounds. Always check current regulations at ranger stations or online before your trip, as fee policies can change seasonally.

What amenities are available at Tibble Fork for dispersed camping?

Tibble Fork area has limited amenities for dispersed camping as it's primarily primitive. For more developed options with some facilities, consider nearby Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area, located about 2 miles off the main highway via a paved road that transitions to a good dirt road. It offers wide open spaces suitable for both tents and RVs. Alternatively, Mill Hollow/Utah FR054 provides peaceful, scenic camping with no amenities but beautiful surroundings. When camping at Tibble Fork or nearby dispersed areas, be prepared to be fully self-sufficient with your own water, waste disposal system, and supplies as no formal facilities exist.

What is the best time of year for dispersed camping in American Fork Canyon?

The optimal time for dispersed camping in American Fork Canyon is late spring through early fall (May to September). Summer offers full accessibility but can be crowded, especially on weekends. Hobble Right Fork Dispersed is accessible during this period, though you'll need to download maps beforehand as cell reception disappears at the canyon entrance. Be aware that cattle often roam the hills in this area. Early fall provides cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. For those seeking solitude, Pittsburg Lake Dispersed in the nearby Uinta National Forest offers a 1.5-mile hike-in option with fewer crowds. Winter camping is possible in lower elevations but requires proper cold-weather gear and vehicles capable of handling snow.