Dispersed camping near Bonanza, Utah ranges from sage-covered plateaus to riverside locations at 5,000-6,000 feet elevation. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, while summer brings 90°F days with minimal natural shade. Vehicle access becomes particularly challenging during spring runoff when dirt roads develop deep ruts and standing water.
What to do
Petroglyphs exploration: At Rainbow Park Campground, campers can access remarkable ancient rock art within walking distance. "There are amazing petroglyphs a short drive down the road," notes Gina J. The site offers "lots of small winding trails all over the landscape to explore" according to Farah C.
River access: Camp along the Green River for fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities. Rainbow Park Campground provides direct river access with a small rocky beach area. According to Lis G., "You can park your car abut to the site, increasing ease of access to things stored in there, and walk down to the rocky beach for some toe-dipping."
Night sky viewing: The remote camping locations provide exceptional stargazing opportunities during clear nights. Grant M. describes the experience at Rainbow Park: "Absolutely pitch black out. There was no one here and no one for miles. Great view of the Milky Way. Totally silent."
What campers like
Solitude: Many dispersed camping sites offer remarkable isolation from other visitors. At North of Dinosaur CR16, Ismenia I. reports, "The view is beautiful and it's quiet but windy. We're the only ones here." Jay U. adds, "Just randomly driving thru Colorado and run into Dinasaur and a peaceful off grid place to camp. No one around. No one else on the planet."
Established fire rings: Despite being dispersed sites, many camping areas feature established fire rings. David M. noted at North of Dinosaur CR16: "Really only two spots if you maintain space, but they have fabulous southerly views, level sites with established fire pits."
Multiple site options: Experienced campers recommend exploring beyond marked locations. Katherine C. shares, "This location has more camping spots available down CR16 past the GPS waypoint. The site at the waypoint has 2-3 more sites tucked back down the grassy double track you can see from the initial pull-off."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads require careful navigation and planning. "Smooth dirt road leading to short turn off loop with a fire ring. Peaceful low-mid T-Mobile," notes John N. about North of Dinosaur CR16. For Rainbow Park Campground, Grant M. warns, "A long, gravel road lead me here on a quiet weeknight in October 2020. Crept in driving a Honda about 15 mph on the 20+ mile dirt road."
Weather preparation: The high desert environment creates challenging camping conditions with minimal protection. Faye N. describes North of Dinosaur CR16 as having "No shade, rocky, need a 4WD for some of the uphills."
Limited amenities: Most tent campsites near Bonanza, Utah require complete self-sufficiency. Jeff K. notes about Rainbow Park: "The site was $6 and if you have a larger group and can get all 4 sites, it would be a fun time." Lis G. adds, "Site has pit toilets, hand sanitizer, recycling/trash, but no running water."
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra water: No reliable water sources exist at most dispersed sites. Gina J. advises, "There are pit toilets and no accessible water" at Rainbow Park Campground.
Limited privacy at established sites: The small campgrounds have tightly grouped sites. According to Jeff K., "Rainbow Park Campground is 4 sites that are very close together offering almost NO privacy. Luckily we were the only ones there."
Plan for bugs: River proximity means mosquito preparation is essential during warmer months. "Bring bug spray! The mosquitoes are vicious here," warns Lis G. about Rainbow Park.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most dispersed camping areas accommodate only smaller rigs and tent camping. For larger vehicles, Forest Service Road 217 offers more spacious options. Ian L. notes, "It's a nice spot. Plenty of space. There are a ton of off-road people but not too bad."
Seasonal awareness: Fall brings hunting activity to some camping areas. Rebecca S. cautions about Forest Service Road 217, "I'm here in October and though chilly it's gorgeous! There are a lot of hunters here with their four wheels but no one has bothered me. Be warned though you definitely will hear the gunshots of them hunting in the forest below."
Scout
