Dispersed tent campsites near Bicknell, Utah offer several primitive camping options at higher elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet. These sites provide easy access to both Capitol Reef National Park and the forested mountains of Fishlake National Forest. Camping in this area requires self-sufficiency as most locations lack developed facilities and campers encounter variable road conditions depending on recent weather and seasonal maintenance schedules.
What to do
Hiking Cathedral Valley: From Polk Creek Road Dispersed Camping, campers can access the upper Cathedral Valley area, which features unique geological formations. "If you follow the road all the way up you can access Cathedral Valley Campground (great views from up there)," notes one camper who appreciated the area.
River activities: Set up camp at Fremont River Dispersed Site for direct water access. A camper described their experience: "Several little roads dispersed all along this area so if you miss one just go to the next. Right along the little Fremont river but also right off the road."
Mountain biking: The higher elevation camping areas provide access to forest trails. At Elkhorn Recreation Site, one reviewer noted, "It is quite busy in the fall but there is still plenty of room for the kids to bring bikes and 4 wheelers."
What campers like
Temperature variation: The elevation difference between canyon and forest camping spots creates options for weather preferences. One camper at Fish Lake National Forest mentioned, "Just needed to find a place for the night and this was perfect! No one around, huge site, beautiful views and free!"
Rock fire rings: Many dispersed sites have established rock fire rings created by previous campers. At Fremont River, a visitor commented: "Nice sandy area for my tent with a little fire ring someone had made with rocks."
Seasonal solitude: Early fall provides less crowded conditions. At Burr Trail Rd Dispersed Camping, a visitor reported, "Got down there early Friday morning on a holiday weekend expecting everywhere to be packed. Outside of a few other campers we had an amazing spot."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many camp areas require driving unpaved roads. At Elkhorn Recreation Site, a camper advised: "The road getting up to the camp ground is dirt and sometimes can have ruts and is bumpy but has really good access and is well maintained."
Wildlife awareness: Bears have been spotted in several camping areas. "There is a mama bear and cub in the area although we didn't see her," reported a camper at Polk Creek Road.
Cell service limitations: Most sites have limited or no cellular coverage. A camper at Burr Trail Rd Dispersed Camping noted their remote location: "Is 9 miles down a road, away from civilization. Definitely back country camping, and not for the faint of heart."
Seasonal closures: Higher elevation sites close during winter months. Elkhorn Recreation Site is typically only open "June 15 to September 20" according to Forest Service information.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment: Forest camping areas offer space for activities. At Elkhorn Recreation Site, a camper shared: "We stay up here quite often during the elk hunt and it is quite busy in the fall but there is still plenty of room for the kids to bring bikes and 4 wheelers."
Plan for cold nights: Even in summer, higher elevations get cold after dark. "It is higher elevation so make sure you bring your coat," advised an Elkhorn Recreation Site visitor.
Know fire regulations: Spencer Flat Dispersed Camping and other sites often have changing fire restrictions. As one camper noted: "A fire would have been nice, but you can't have everything."
Prepare for weather changes: Mountain weather can shift rapidly. At Spencer Flat, a camper observed, "It was a little windy in the afternoon, I positioned my car to block the wind from the fire pit."
Tips from RVers
Road assessment: For larger vehicles, road conditions require advance planning. At Burr Trail Rd, an RV camper advised: "40+ foot 5th wheel, 4x4 Ram. After a conversation with the Info center in Cannonville, we chose to drive through Long Canyon."
Site selection: Not all sites accommodate large vehicles. A Fish Lake National Forest camper reported: "I passed several occupied sites but found a gorgeous pull through with beautiful views."
Self-containment: No water or dump facilities exist at most dispersed sites. "There are absolutely no services or amenities here," reported a Burr Trail camper.
