Primitive camping near Aspen Grove, Utah ranges in elevation from 6,500 to 9,000 feet, creating varied camping conditions across the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Most dispersed campsites remain accessible from late May through mid-October, with summer temperatures averaging 70°F during day and dropping to 45°F at night. Road conditions deteriorate significantly after rainfall, with several access routes requiring 4WD capability.
What to do
Hike to mountain lakes: The Pittsburgh Lakes trail offers access to alpine fishing spots. "The hike is a 1.5 mile hike up to the lake. Getting to the trail head is a dusty, dirt road behind Midway, UT. You are driving on dirt road for approximately 6-7 miles and will encounter at least two stream crossings," explains a camper at Pittsburgh Lake Dispersed.
Off-road adventures: Many campsites connect to ATV trails. "Great camping spot, lots of great hiking too," notes one reviewer about Mineral Basin Dispersed. The network of trails spans over 30 miles throughout the area.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk offer optimal wildlife viewing. "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. The dirt road is the correct way to get up there, don't follow the paved road," advises a visitor who spotted deer near their campsite.
What campers like
Solitude at higher elevations: Less-trafficked campsites exist above 8,000 feet. "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. This site is 400-500 yards away from the next closest collection of camp sites," describes a camper at Squaw Peak Road Dispersed.
Lakeside camping spots: Multiple sites offer water access. "Parked at Cecret Trail parking lot. I arrived at 10:30 PM so parking was not an issue. Was towing a small trailer, which had some difficulty handling terrain en route to parking lot," reports a visitor to Albion Basin - Dispersed.
Star viewing: Minimal light pollution creates exceptional night skies. "If weather permits, leaving off the rain fly provides an exquisite view of the milky way as you drift off to sleep," shares an Albion Basin camper about the astronomical viewing conditions.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary seasonally and by location. "We have Verizon & TMobile & both had service. Good enough to stream music," notes a visitor to Cascade Springs, highlighting connectivity to check current fire regulations.
Road conditions: Many access roads deteriorate throughout the season. "This season there are some fairly deep ruts especially as you get to less popular roads and closer to campsites. That being said it was more than worth the trip!" advises a camper at Cascade Springs Dispersed Site.
Seasonal closures: Several mountain routes close during winter. "Road closed at the top. We couldn't access early June road still closed past the ski resort," reports a Mineral Basin visitor, indicating the need to check road status before trips.
Wildlife considerations: Bear activity requires proper food storage. "A bear crawled onto the roof of my Jeep while I was in it sleeping. Heads up when camping here," warns a camper about potential wildlife encounters.
Tips for camping with families
Toilets available: Some areas offer basic facilities. "This is a disperse campground. It a a portable toilet which is amazingly clean and maintained. Now they've set up a dumpster for all of your garbage," shares a camper at Dispersed Camping Willow Spring.
Child-friendly sites: Locations with gentle terrain work best for families. "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," notes a visitor to Salamander Flat.
Bug preparation: Mosquitoes can be prevalent in early summer. "I'm sure this is a seasonal thing but we ended up bailing out and headed back down the mountain because of the mosquitos. I've never seen anything like it! We arrived around dusk and the mosquitoes were on us like starving piranhas," warns a Cascade Springs camper.
Tips from RVers
Limited large vehicle sites: Most dispersed areas accommodate smaller rigs only. "Getting here can be challenging, very steep incline, tight corners, and some spots have bumpy dirt roads. Perfect for tent camping and small trailers, spots are not big enough for bigger RVs and trailers," advises a Squaw Peak Road visitor.
Leveling challenges: Prepare blocking materials for uneven terrain. "It's a little uneven, but we managed fine with our RV," notes a camper about the parking conditions, emphasizing the need for leveling equipment.
Turnaround limitations: Scout ahead before committing to narrow roads. "Don't come with a trailer. Just don't do it. Sure is pretty but we never made it to the top," cautions a Cascade Springs visitor about challenging turnaround conditions.
