Dispersed camping near Blanding, Utah includes several options beyond established equestrian areas. Located in southeastern Utah at an elevation of approximately 6,100 feet, the region features a mix of desert terrain, pinyon-juniper woodlands, and sandstone formations. Campers face significant temperature variations, with summer daytime highs often reaching 90°F while dropping to the 50s at night.
What to do
Wildlife observation: CR 0083 offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities in a natural setting. "We watched two separate flocks of turkeys and a large head of deer with our morning coffee and breakfast," notes one camper at CR 0083. The area attracts diverse wildlife throughout the year.
Archaeological exploration: The region contains numerous archaeological sites accessible from camping areas. At Sand Island Recreation Area, campers report "hundreds of petroglyphs" and proximity to significant ruins. One visitor mentions, "Butler wash down the road an mile or two has Boondocking and some amazing ruins that are just a mile or so off the road."
Stargazing: The remote location provides exceptional dark sky viewing. "Absolutely zero noise, beautiful scenery and milkyway clear skies," reports a camper from CR 0083. Limited light pollution makes the area ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.
What campers like
Convenient road access: Many dispersed sites offer straightforward access for standard vehicles. At CR 0083, a reviewer notes, "Easy spot to get to, paved road most of the way." This accessibility makes it practical for weekend trips without specialized vehicles.
Secluded camping spaces: Butler Wash Dispersed provides private spots away from main roads. "The site is well off the road. Flat, level spot. It has a rock fire ring. Along side Butler Wash which was nearly dry at the time. Beautiful views all around. Very quiet & peaceful," according to one visitor.
Cool summer nights: Despite hot days, the elevation provides comfortable evening temperatures. A camper at Snow Flat Camp 13 describes "Wonderful view from the top of this mesa. Wildflowers were blooming at the site." The higher elevations provide natural air conditioning during summer months.
What you should know
Water requirements: No reliable water sources exist at most dispersed sites. Campers must bring sufficient water for themselves, their animals, and any cleanup needs. Plan for 1-2 gallons per person per day.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly with weather. At Valley of the Gods Road Dispersed, a visitor cautions, "Roads were a little rutted coming in but nothing crazy." Conditions worsen after rainfall, potentially stranding vehicles.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites offer no amenities. One camper at Valley of the Gods notes, "There are no amenities like restrooms or potable water and the campsite is a patch of flat dirt." Pack all necessary supplies, including portable toilet facilities.
Cell service limitations: Coverage is spotty throughout the region. A Butler Wash camper reports, "No AT&T nor T-Mobile service," which is common across most dispersed sites near Blanding.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families can observe diverse wildlife from safe distances. A CR 0083 visitor describes, "The hill was teeming with life. When I pulled up there were two mule deer drinking from a small runoff. They stayed within 50 ft of us for over an hour. Also saw several turkeys wander through the same water."
Educational exploration: The area provides natural learning environments for children. Valley of the Gods features geological formations that showcase erosion processes and ancient rock layers. One visitor mentions, "The valley of the gods is astoundingly, beautiful and spending the night in the valley was near perfection."
Wind preparation: Bring windbreaks and secure tents thoroughly. A Valley of the Gods camper warns, "When we arrived it was howling wind and blowing sand. We worried the side of our van would be nothing but primer in the morning." Wind typically diminishes in evenings but can be intense during afternoons.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: When seeking horse campgrounds near Blanding, Utah, choose locations with adequate turning space. A CR 0083 visitor explains, "The pull in spot had one other truck and trailer when we arrived and we had room to turn our rig and towed vehicle around to get the mountainside view."
Arrival timing: Arrive during daylight hours to safely navigate unpaved roads. "Would not recommend arriving after dark because of all the free roaming wildlife," advises one CR 0083 camper who encountered numerous deer on access roads.
Surface preparation: Bring leveling blocks for uneven terrain. At Valley of the Gods, a visitor notes, "The ground is extremely dry and hard but with a mallet you can get the stake in and it will stick like concrete." This applies to both tent stakes and RV stabilizers throughout most equestrian camping areas near Blanding.
