Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Big Water, Utah, an area marked by high desert conditions with summer temperatures often exceeding 100°F and winter lows reaching freezing. The surrounding terrain features a mix of sandstone formations and expansive desert landscapes at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 5,000 feet. Most dispersed sites require vehicles with higher clearance as access roads can become impassable after rainfall.
What to do
Explore slot canyons on horseback: Paria River Ranch offers exceptional guided rides through nearby slot canyons, providing a distinctive way to experience the terrain. "Our guided 2-hour ride in the nearby slot canyon was fantastic. I HIGHLY recommend riding with the amazing team at the ranch," notes one visitor who stayed at Paria River Ranch.
Visit nearby natural features: Within driving distance of Kitchen Corral Wash Dispersed Site, campers can reach various geological formations. "Short driving distance to Buckskin Canyon. No problem with our Verizon phones," reports a camper at Kitchen Corral Wash Dispersed Site, highlighting the accessibility of nearby attractions.
Day trips to national parks: The strategic location between several major parks makes this area ideal for exploratory driving. "We used this park as our base camp for exploring Utah's National Parks. Bryce, Zion and Capital Reef are all very doable day trips," writes a visitor about camping options in the region.
What campers like
Secluded camping experiences: The dispersed sites in this region offer privacy not found at established campgrounds. "It feels almost like a hidden secret that I shouldn't divulge, but the lovely owners of this special little spot deserve to have a light shown on their little slice of heaven in Southern Utah," shares a camper at Ethel's Hideout.
Dark night skies: The remote location creates exceptional stargazing opportunities away from light pollution. "Don't forget to look up at the night sky, beautiful star lite," recommends a visitor who stayed at Antelope Hogan Bed and Breakfast, which offers camping accommodations just south of Big Water.
Diverse terrain for hiking: The varied landscape provides numerous trails of different difficulty levels. "Shakespeare Arch alone is worth the trip with its 360 degrees view, and Shakespeare Arch/Sentinel Spire are something different. You may see a black-tailed jackrabbit in the campground or on the hike to Shakespeare Arch," describes one camper about the surrounding area.
What you should know
Limited services available: The remote nature of the region means facilities are sparse. "First off, no service (food, gas) within 25 miles," warns a camper who used the area as a base for hiking nearby trails.
Weather considerations: Summer heat can be intense, while winter brings cold temperatures. "We came here on a Friday night in mid-June before exploring Kodachrome Basin State Park. I could not believe how close we were to the state park without having any other people around," reports a visitor to Rock Springs Bench.
Road conditions: Many access roads to dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles. "The area is absolutely beautiful but we drive a ford escape and couldn't get very far on the road as it was very eroded! Lucky if you have a higher clearance vehicle," cautions a camper who attempted to reach Henrieville Creek campground.
Water access limitations: Most dispersed sites lack water sources. "Stayed for 2 nights with our 25' trailer. Dirt road was fine! No one else was there! So amazing to have a cup of coffee and view the beautiful landscape," notes a camper about Kitchen Corral Wash, indicating the need to bring your own water supply.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: For families, established campgrounds offer necessary facilities. "The bathrooms and showers onsite are immaculate. Very clean, new, and well designed," describes a visitor to Paria River Ranch, making it suitable for families with horses.
Plan for no connectivity: Most areas have limited or no cell service. "No cell or wifi service," mentions a camper at Bryce View Campground, highlighting the importance of planning activities that don't require internet access.
Consider temperature fluctuations: Desert regions experience significant day-to-night temperature changes. "Went early November and the weather was a little cold. This campground is smaller which I prefer and quiet. Very dark at night time," shares a camper who visited Bryce View Campground during the off-season.
Tips from RVers
Water management: Disconnecting water during cold nights is essential. "We were here for 7 nights mid-November. It was very cold so we had to disconnect water at night but hook-ups were easy to use and worked well," advises an RVer who stayed at Escalante Cabins & R.V. Park.
Site selection for larger rigs: "Sites are gravel, fairly level and very large. Plenty of room for trailer and truck in site," notes an RV camper at Escalante Cabins & R.V. Park, providing useful information for those with larger setups.
Road navigation: "That 5 mile drive on the gravel road to get to the campsite is no joke — tie down everything that can be tied down," warns a camper who brought their travel trailer to a campground in the region, emphasizing the importance of securing loose items before traveling on unpaved roads.
