Best Dispersed Camping near Bonanza, UT
Dispersed camping near Bonanza, Utah centers primarily around Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, with several free primitive sites located within driving distance. The McCoy Flats area offers multiple dispersed camping options approximately 6 miles southwest of Vernal, featuring a network of mountain biking trails and open terrain suitable for tent and RV camping. Additional BLM dispersed sites can be found near Dinosaur National Monument, along County Road 16, and in the Dragon Trail area, providing campers with access to scenic views and public lands without developed facilities.
Many access roads to these dispersed sites require careful navigation, with several locations demanding high-clearance vehicles or 4WD capability. The Dragon Trail and South Plug Hat Butte areas feature narrow, sandy two-track roads that become problematic when wet. Most sites lack amenities, though McCoy Flats provides vault toilets at several locations along the main paved road. No water, trash service, or designated fire rings are available at most sites. Camping is typically limited to 14-16 days on BLM land. Cell service varies significantly by location and carrier, with McCoy Flats generally offering reliable coverage.
The dispersed camping experience in this region ranges from open desert terrain to juniper-covered areas with mountain views. Sites near Dinosaur National Monument provide access to hiking and scenic vistas, while McCoy Flats attracts mountain bikers with its extensive trail network. Weather conditions can be challenging, particularly wind exposure in open areas. According to one visitor at McCoy Flats, "This place was awesome. I stayed for 4 nights and had the place to myself for 3 nights." Another camper noted the practical aspects of the area: "Only a few miles into Vernal and a Walmart, and it has new vault toilets and is free dispersed camping with the MTB crowd."
