Best Dispersed Camping near Aurora, UT

Dispersed camping around Aurora, Utah provides multiple free options on public lands. Fish Lake National Forest offers several primitive sites with established fire rings and good vehicle access. Mountain Mecca features open terrain suitable for tent camping, while Glenwood Hills Dispersed provides basic sites with minimal amenities. According to campers, Fish Lake National Forest sites are accessible by standard vehicles when roads are dry, with one visitor noting that "the dirt road is well maintained and you can get a car or truck or trailer in no problem."

No drinking water, toilets, or trash facilities exist at most dispersed sites near Aurora. Campers must pack in all necessary supplies and pack out all waste. Fire restrictions vary seasonally; always check current regulations before planning to have a campfire. Several sites feature existing rock fire rings, but visitors should bring their own firewood or collect only dead and downed wood where permitted. Cell service is inconsistent throughout the area, with better coverage near major highways.

Wildlife encounters are common in this region. Cattle frequently graze on open rangeland near camping areas, and deer and elk sightings are regular occurrences. Campers report excellent stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. One visitor described the night sky as "probably one of the best I've seen with almost no light pollution." Weather conditions vary significantly by elevation and season, with higher elevation sites experiencing cooler temperatures. Summer thunderstorms develop quickly; secure all equipment against sudden wind gusts. Winter access becomes difficult or impossible at many sites due to snow accumulation and muddy conditions.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Aurora, Utah (52)

    1. Fish Lake National Forest

    5 Reviews
    Salina, UT
    11 miles

    "This was our first time boondocking and this spot did not disappoint! It’s convenient to I-70 but feels very remote. We passed one other camper on the way in."

    "Close to the highway, far enough to not really hear it."

    2. Mountain Mecca

    3 Reviews
    Richfield, UT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 896-9233

    "Road goes up past water tower and recommends using 4wd to come up to prevent washboard, but any vehicle with awe would do. No amenities and very private."

    "Beautiful scenery and just right outside of town. Very easy to access for most. I did see an RV camping but it had to be a bit more difficult for them."

    4. Big Lake Cua Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Monroe, UT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 896-9233

    "Big lake and deep lake are so much fun. Camping here is my all time favorite. Fish, salamanders, cougars, and plenty of elk all over make it a wonderful place to camp."

    7. Fish Lake National Forest Campsite

    6 Reviews
    Oak City, UT
    25 miles

    "Quite a few spots accessible by car. A couple fireplaces here and there too. A fair amount of fallen pine and juniper wood there to use for building fires."

    "Super easy access for any car if roads are dry. Lots of places to get back in the junioers a lil and have a nice private place to sleep."

    8. Koosharem Reservoir

    2 Reviews
    Monroe, UT
    23 miles

    "Easy access on a gravel road. Public restroom was clean."

    10. Meadow Hot Springs

    8 Reviews
    Meadow, UT
    31 miles

    "Road is bumpy and may be difficult for cars to get back to the main spring but you can always park and walk. Be sure not to leave any trash as this is private property owned by super nice people!"

    "There are 3 natural hot spring bath tubes on a private property in the meadows. Camping among the cows and having a bath in a natural hot tub while the sun is rising - it's a dream."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Aurora, UT

71 Reviews of 52 Aurora Campgrounds


  • Brad B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 20, 2019

    Black Flat Cua Dispersed

    Close to U.M. Creek. The views are amazing!!

    This is a GEM if you like to not see a lot of people and love the outdoors. This is a first come first serve camp area and there is no picnic tables and few out houses so please pack out your garbage and keep this area beautiful. There is some amazing fly fishing in the creeks and lakes in this area. The dirt road is well maintained and you can get a car or truck or trailer in no problem. Lots of amazing trails for side by sides and 4 wheelers.

  • Quinn M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 8, 2023

    Miller Canyon Exit #99 Dispersed

    Quiet, eerie, amazing night sky

    Get off the highway and onto a dirt road with no clear designated sites, just pull off wherever. The night sky was probably one of the best I've seen with almost no light pollution. The absolutely deserted site became a little creepy once it got completely dark, with faint glimpses of I70 in the distance.

  • Ean P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 20, 2025

    Fish Lake National Forest Campsite

    Great Spot Just Don’t Camp Here Alone in a Tent

    Great spot for camping with a group. Quite a few spots accessible by car. A couple fireplaces here and there too. A fair amount of fallen pine and juniper wood there to use for building fires. Just remember to drown out your fires with water (there’s a sign).

    I do not recommend tent camping here solo though. This wasn’t my first time tent camping solo either. As I was laying in my sleeping bag inside my tent around 11pm, some creature started stalking me around midnight. I could hear it moving and breathing outside my tent. I managed to scare it off by hitting my car’s “panic button” on the keys. I then packed up immediately and left.

  • P
    May. 25, 2023

    Dispersed West Fork 8 Mile Road

    Alone with the cows

    I found a spot on Eight Mile road, just off i-15, near the east side of the national forest. I drove up the dirt road for a while until I found a nice flat spot for the night. 

    I could hear some road noise, but had 3+ bars of T-mobile 5g service. Not another person in sight except for maybe 2 cars that drove by during the night. Plenty of cows and cow patties around though!

    Bonus: Eight mile road was a shortcut to westbound highway 50 and a nice way to start the drive in the morning.

  • Derek E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2019

    West Fork - Whiskey Creek Dispersed Camping

    Wildlife EVERYWHERE!

    If you’re looking for a fun backpacking camping trip where you’re guaranteed to see tons of wildlife, this is it. Not only will you avoid the crowded campgrounds, but you’ll be able to do it without hiking a million miles from your vehicle.

    You can park at the trailhead and hike up only 2 miles before you start seeing deer and elk everywhere. You simply follow the river up the canyon, and choose from any of the small flat locations for tent camping, or pick a couple trees to hang a hammock. Choices are abundant. In the summer months, water is scarce so bring water. If the creek is full and running you can simply filter water.

    There is a beautiful meadow area at the top of the trail before you begin to descend down the other side (another beautiful area).

    Was able to hike in with my 8 year old, and he loved it. Great secluded dispersed spot for wildlife watching.

  • Greg I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 30, 2025

    BLM Dispersed Exit 108 Lone Tree Road

    Wide open spaces, easy access

    It's a good graded gravel road going south, but as you get further in there are some dry-creek crossings that can need high-clearance. If they're real sandy or  muddy than plan on 4WD. But plenty of space before those obstacles.

    Soft silty/sandy soil... low shoes will fill up quick.

    The roads go further in but I haven't explored them yet. A mile from the highway, you can barely hear it or see it. In late April, we had one neighbor a half-mile away, and saw nobody come by our camp in two days.

  • Azaali J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2024

    Polk Creek Road Dispersed Camping

    Great spot close to Capitol Reef National Park

    Numerous spots along the road. Some are very well shaded while others have lots of sun.

    This spot is large and shaded. Rock fire pit. There’s currently fire restrictions so we didn’t have a fire but we set up a nice little sitting area around the fire with logs we found in the forested area.

    There is a mama bear and cub in the area although we didn’t see her.

    Weather is cooler than in Capitol Reef so it’s a nice place to recharge and escape the heat.

    Lots of firewood in close vicinity so no need to bring any in with you (check for fire restrictions before).

    Would definitely come back here.

    If you follow the road all the way up you can access Cathedral Valley Campground (great views from up there)

    Remember to pack out your garbage.

  • g
    Jun. 18, 2021

    Shingle creek dispersed

    Beautiful, isolated

    The road getting up is about 4 miles of dirt road, 4x4 recommended but i made it up in my prius. There were a few rvs parked earlier down the road with larger trees and less of a view. I had service with verizon, but my friend with sprint had to sprint up the hill to get service. Make sure you bring everything you need, as there are no amenities out here. Primitive and perfect.

  • mason M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 29, 2025

    Meadow Hot Springs

    Relaxing Hot Spring

    Super relaxing hot spring with a few other springs at decent temperatures. Road is bumpy and may be difficult for cars to get back to the main spring but you can always park and walk. Be sure not to leave any trash as this is private property owned by super nice people!


Guide to Aurora

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Aurora, 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 Aurora, Utah

  • Make sure to pack out all your trash, especially at places like Black Flat Cua Dispersed, which has minimal amenities and relies on visitors to keep the area clean.
  • Bring your own water, as many spots, including Fish Lake National Forest, do not provide drinking water or sanitation facilities.
  • Check road conditions before heading out, especially if you plan to visit Mountain Mecca, where a 4WD vehicle may be recommended for easier access.

Scenic fishing spots for dispersed campers

  • For those who enjoy fishing, Big Lake Cua Dispersed is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with plenty of wildlife to observe.
  • The area around Salina Reservoir Cua Dispersed offers a peaceful setting for anglers looking to cast a line in tranquil waters.
  • Fly fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby creeks at Black Flat Cua Dispersed, which is praised for its beautiful scenery and solitude.

Dispersed campers should check out Koosharem Reservoir

  • Koosharem Reservoir is an ideal spot for a quick overnight stay, featuring easy access and clean public restrooms.
  • The area is perfect for those looking to unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings, making it a popular choice among campers seeking tranquility.
  • With its well-maintained gravel roads, reaching Koosharem Reservoir is hassle-free, allowing you to focus on enjoying your camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Aurora, UT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Aurora, UT is Fish Lake National Forest with a 4.6-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Aurora, UT?

TheDyrt.com has all 52 dispersed camping locations near Aurora, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.