Dispersed camping options near Bonanza, Utah provide access to high desert terrain at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 feet. The area features juniper woodlands, sagebrush plains, and dramatic sandstone formations with temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night. Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Bonanza have minimal facilities but allow access to extensive trail systems.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: McCoy Flats MTB Trailhead offers direct access to 46 miles of trails for various skill levels. "There is an extensive network of nonmotorized Mtb singletrack trails in this area, and there does not seem to be any restrictions on e-mtb bikes," notes one reviewer.
River activities: Cool off in the Green River during summer months when temperatures climb into the 90s. "We walked down to the river - we did not see any true trails to the river, but we didn't take the time to look around. The river and surrounding mountainous region was beautiful, and the cold water was a great way to cool off after a hike in the heat," explains a camper.
Explore cultural sites: Visit ancient rock art panels near camping areas. "The BLM Dragon Trail rock art sites are along County Road #23 south out of Rangely Colo. No designated sites and most are best for overlander types. Camping opportunities start at the County road #100 access to the Shield site and then go south along County Road #23."
Stargazing: Take advantage of minimal light pollution for spectacular night sky viewing. "The night sky was magical," reports a visitor about Split Mountain Group Campground.
What campers like
Solitude and space: Many dispersed sites offer significant distance from other campers. "Found a site with a stunning 360 degree view. Clean, no trace of anyone else for miles. It was windy at times but very comfortable temperature compared to the surrounding valleys," notes a camper at North of Dinosaur CR16.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for deer, bighorn sheep, and various bird species. "All kinds of wildlife can be seen here; big horn sheep, cranes, elk, deer. You can also fish for various types of fish; catfish, carp, and pike."
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms despite remote locations. "The bathrooms were clean - no showers are available, though. There were not any water spigots around by the sites, but there was a faucet outside the rest rooms for dish washing and water bottles."
Reliable connectivity: Many dispersed sites offer surprising cell coverage. "One of the best spots I have found for full time RV/Van life. Extremely quiet with amazing sunsets. Full service on AT&T and Verizon. The town of Vernal is close by with a Walmart less tan 10-15 minutes."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites have no water or toilets. "Wide open BLM area 3 miles from Hwy but paved (potholes!) into the TH. Vault toilet but no water, trash or designated campsites."
Access challenges: Some sites require careful navigation. "Don't go here if you are not familiar with driving on loose sand. It would be fairly easy to get stuck in the middle of nowhere," warns a visitor to Dinosaur South Dispersed Camp.
Temperature extremes: Prepare for significant heat during summer days. "As standard for the area, most of the campsites do not have much in the way of shade. We camped this past July, and it was extremely hot for most of the day and well into the evening."
Wind conditions: Exposed sites experience significant wind. "It got very windy during the day, and after coming back from a hike we found our tent blown over, despite having staked it down. Stake your tents down well!"
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed options: For reliable amenities with children, consider Rangely Camper Park. "The park has several sites with electric hook ups and several without. They do have a faucet for filling your tanks with water and a dump station. The bathhouse is clean and the shower is huge."
Visit educational sites: "Our family loves Dinosaur National Monument and the Green River Campground, amazing campsites close to the green river are clean and the rangers are top notch and super friendly, we love the petroglyphs and the kids love the Jr. Ranger Program."
Consider timing: Plan activities early to avoid midday heat. "We chose to get up early to hike and beat the heat - afterwards we packed up lunch and drove over to Josie Morris cabin."
Check shade availability: "If you need the best shade, choose the B loop" at Green River Campground, advises one camper, which can be crucial during hot summer days with children.
Tips from RVers
Advance planning: Many RV sites are first-come, first-served and fill quickly during peak season. "We arrived about 4 pm on a Sunday in October so had several FCFS sites to choose from."
Specialized amenities: Outlaw Trail RV Park offers full hookups close to attractions. "This place was very nice. Awesome spot to stop and launch off on adventures into Dinosaurs national monument. Would stay here again when I come to visit. Staff was very nice and accommodating and very quiet at night. And if you have an RV all the sites are full hookups."
Size considerations: For larger rigs, evaluate site dimensions carefully. "There are a few trees here and there, but it's largely just a big gravel parking lot. On the plus side, the sites are decent size, with full hookup, and it's a 6 minute drive to the Quarry Visitor Center of Dinosaur National Monument."
Level sites: "Finding a level spot might be difficult" at some campgrounds, so bring leveling blocks or choose carefully for dog-friendly campgrounds near Bonanza with more established sites.
