Dispersed camping options near Bountiful, Utah extend beyond established campgrounds, with the Bountiful B area offering free sites at elevations between 5,500-7,000 feet. Located on Forest Service land, these sites accommodate both tent and smaller RVs, though road conditions require higher clearance vehicles on unmaintained routes. Most dispersed sites remain accessible from late spring through early fall, with higher elevations closing earlier due to snowfall.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Access numerous trails directly from Millcreek Canyon Backcountry camping areas, with permit requirements for overnight stays. "Millcreek is a great escape from the city. All the camping is backcountry so you can pick any trail and just make sure that you are 1/2 mile off the road and at least 200 ft from developed areas and water," notes camper Dan G. from Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts.
Fishing at East Canyon Reservoir: East Canyon State Park provides both shoreline access and boat launches for fishing. A camper at Big Rock Campground reports, "Great fishing, especially if you know where to go." The reservoir holds smallmouth bass and other species, with best fishing in early morning or evening hours.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple camping areas offer wildlife observation opportunities. "We were able to spot many species of birds as well as deer, sheep, and prairie dogs," mentions Kalli W. about Big Rock Campground. Early morning provides optimal viewing conditions, particularly in less developed areas.
What campers like
Privacy at dispersed sites: The Bountiful B dispersed area offers more secluded camping than established campgrounds. "Some awesome flat areas with a creek if you go in spring. Nice and quiet," notes Taylor R. about Bountiful B Dispersed.
Paved RV sites: Many campers appreciate the concrete pads at Salt Lake area RV parks. At Pony Express RV Resort, "Flat, level parking spots - many pull-throughs" are highlighted by Brian C., making setup easier for larger rigs.
Recreation facilities: Family-friendly amenities distinguish some campgrounds. Cherry Hill Campground offers "Water park, mini golf, water slides, laser tag, maze, kiddie boats all in Water Park," according to Kathy S., though these attractions require separate admission fees beyond camping rates.
What you should know
Limited water access: Dispersed camping areas like Bountiful B lack drinking water. "We dealt with rain and even snow on the last morning... But there was green grass and a spot for fires and the Sheriffs rolls through and are super helpful as well," explains Stian M. Campers must bring all needed water supplies.
Site conditions vary seasonally: Weather impacts camping areas differently. At Salt Lake City KOA, Jennifer O. notes, "The campground was nice. Warm showers and bathhouse that was fairly clean. It was still winter so not many other amenities."
Safety considerations: Dispersed camping areas require additional precautions. "The site was LITTERED with spent ammo, broken glass and broken pieces of clay pigeons," cautions Stian M. about Bountiful B, suggesting careful site inspection before setting up camp.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Lagoon RV Park & Campground, "Nice play area. Bikes available including kid sized" provides options for children's activities according to Janet H.
Budget considerations: Campground fees vary widely from free dispersed sites to premium resort-style accommodations. "It was about $75 for a single night, but our original spot fell through and they were able to accommodate us last minute," notes North Idaho N. about Salt Lake City KOA.
Noise levels: Proximity to urban areas affects ambient noise. "There are multiple trains/sirens/large semis blowing by all night," warns North Idaho N. about the Salt Lake City KOA, suggesting families sensitive to noise consider more remote options.
Tips from RVers
Proximity to services: RVers appreciate campgrounds with nearby conveniences. At Pony Express RV Resort, cheriana G. notes it "backs up to an RV sales and service place which I think is pretty convenient!"
Site spacing: RV sites vary in proximity and privacy between established campgrounds. "If you want space to spread out this is not the place for you," advises Cole A. about Pony Express RV Resort, adding "Like many other places who advertise free wifi might as well plan on using your phone or starlink or whatever you may have."
Hookup availability: Full hookups aren't available at all campgrounds. "The outside of the loop at Dixie C.G. is electric and water only. The inside of the loop has full hook-ups," explains James J. about Dixie Creek Campground, helping RVers plan site selection accordingly.
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