Dispersed camping near Ashley National Forest offers several options for equestrian visitors seeking to camp with their horses. The forest spans over 1.3 million acres across northeastern Utah and southwestern Wyoming, with elevations ranging from 6,000 to over 12,000 feet. Camping seasons typically run from May through October, with mountain weather patterns bringing afternoon thunderstorms during summer months.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Forest Service Road 217 Dispersed provides access to numerous riding trails through aspen groves and pine forests. One camper notes, "I'm here in October and though chilly it's gorgeous! There are a lot of hunters here with their four wheels but no one has bothered me."
Fishing access: Meadow Park Dispersed Camping offers nearby fishing options for campers who want to combine riding with angling. "We found this place by chance a couple summers ago when all the campgrounds were packed this one was vacant and absolutely breathtaking," reports one visitor, adding that it has "very secluded spots tucked in the trees."
Lake recreation: Sheep Creek Bay Boat Ramp and Campground provides shoreline access for horses to cool off after rides. A camper described it as having "beautiful area close to the resevoir" and noted "plenty of hiking opportunities heading west up into the forests."
What campers like
Seclusion and quiet: Equestrians appreciate the privacy at many dispersed sites. At Meadow Park, a visitor mentioned, "You don't hear the highway traffic even at closer spots to the road. There are endless options for sites."
Water access: Carmel Campground offers creek access for watering horses. "This campground was a pleasant surprise after the lower sheep creek CGs, there are actual large trees for shade!" one camper shared, adding it has "14 sites all FF, $13/$6.50 senior."
Open terrain: Equestrian campers value the space at many sites. At FS #049 Road Dispersed Camping Area, a reviewer noted it "is free and is along FS road #049 into Greens Draw area. Area is shielded from hwy 191 noise. However it has a strong ATT cell signal."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require careful navigation with horse trailers. At Meadow Park, a camper warns, "If you have a low clearance vehicle you must go SLOOOWWW. The road is pretty washed out and has plenty of rocks that will take your oil pan as a souvenir."
Seasonal cattle grazing: Multiple sites share land with grazing operations. "In the summer they do drive cattle through this spot so be mindful that you may hear horses, riders, dogs, and mooing," reports a Meadow Park visitor.
Limited facilities: East Park Campground has more amenities than most sites but still lacks some services. One visitor stated, "Nice CG, paved FS rd all the way except last 1/2 mile of gravel from FS rd #20. CG has 20 camp sites, no reservations. $10 nite, vault toilets but NO water or garbage."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with natural features: Carmel Campground offers creek access that children enjoy. A visitor shared that "This campground is secluded in Ashley National Forest with tons to do. From hiking to fishing to playing in the Gorge you'll enjoy this location day and night."
Pack supplies thoroughly: Given limited facilities, families must bring everything needed. At Spring Creek Road Dispersed, a camper advised, "I left after running out of water, but will definitely be back."
Consider weather variability: Mountain conditions change quickly. At Oaks Park Campground, a visitor noted, "Long drive back into the forest but it is well worth it. We were the only people camping here for two days and it was beautiful."
Tips from RVers
Test road conditions: Before bringing equestrian trailers down unfamiliar roads, scout ahead. Regarding Jug Hollow Road, a camper warned, "The road coming in has lots of cows and deer so be careful! Take 319 to get to this area, not 341, it's now fenced off."
Prepare for minimal hookups: Most horse-friendly sites lack services. At Sheep Creek Bay, one RVer noted, "This camp area is sectioned off of the very large sheep creek bay boat ramp parking. There are just 4-5 spots on blacktop for TTs and RVs."
Consider spacing needs: Horse trailers require ample room. A visitor to East Park Campground cautioned that "Camping spots are to close to each other" but there's a "Short walk to the lake."
