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Best Dispersed Camping near Brian Head, UT

792 Reviews

The mountainous terrain surrounding Brian Head, Utah features numerous dispersed camping options managed primarily by Dixie National Forest and Bureau of Land Management. Mammoth Dispersed and Yankee Meadows provide free camping within 30 minutes of Brian Head, with sites suitable for both tents and RVs. Coal Creek Dispersed areas offer additional options closer to Cedar City, while Bear Flat and Candy Loop Camp provide more remote experiences for those seeking solitude. Most dispersed sites in the region maintain primitive conditions with few amenities, though some areas like Yankee Meadows offer basic facilities including vault toilets and picnic tables during their operating season from late May through early September.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many sites requiring travel on unpaved forest service roads. As one camper noted, "If very wet or rain could be sketchy access... I would recon first before pulling a travel trailer up there to make sure you can get a turnaround." High clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing more remote sites, particularly after rain when dirt roads can become impassable. The 14-day stay limit applies to most dispersed camping areas on public lands. Cell service is generally available near main roads but becomes spotty in more isolated locations. Fire restrictions are common during summer months, and seasonal closures affect higher elevation sites during winter when snow blocks access roads.

Stargazing opportunities receive frequent mention in camper reviews, with the area's dark skies and elevation creating ideal conditions for night sky viewing. "Due to fire restrictions, we didn't have a fire, and enjoyed seeing the Milky Way and shooting stars," reported one visitor to Tom Best Spring Road. Ponderosa pine forests provide natural shade at many sites, though dust from forest roads can be an issue during dry periods. Campers consistently praise the region's solitude and proximity to national parks, with several dispersed areas serving as convenient basecamps for exploring Bryce Canyon and Zion. The Leave No Trace ethic is particularly important, as increasing visitation has led to concerns about trash and resource damage at some popular sites.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Brian Head, Utah (127)

    1. Bear Flat

    8 Reviews
    Brian Head, UT
    2 miles

    "Spots scattered around, more so on the left side when you drive in - towards and around marathon trail head.

    Bring extra bug spray!"

    "Campground with dispersed campsites within a grove of aspen trees adjacent to a large meadow and the Marathon TH, with a stunning view of Cedar Breaks. Vault toilet is well-maintained."

    2. Mammoth Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Duck Creek Village, UT
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 865-3200

    "Right next to Mammoth Creek surrounded by Dixie National Forest. Lots of sites and pull offs. No hookups or water but there are pit toilets. New favorite campsite!!"

    "Mammoth Dispersed Campground offers a beautiful setting among tall pines, with plenty of shade, cool temperatures, and easy access to a peaceful stream (both day use area and overnight campsites with access"

    3. Coal Creek Dispersed - Cedar City

    12 Reviews
    Cedar City, UT
    8 miles

    "Bummer, it’s right off the highway, but late at night it’s pretty quiet. Just have to checkout all the pullouts for a walking trail down to a camping spot. Not too shabby."

    "Rough roads found a little secluded area beside the river. Would come back but didn’t like the sketch feel of no cell service."

    4. Yankee Meadows

    11 Reviews
    Parowan, UT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 865-3700

    "After passing through Parowan it’s about a 20 min drive into Dixie National Forest. My T-Mobile & Verizon signal dropped completely as I entered the NF."

    "One being the actual Yankee Meadows campground and the other is an overflow. The overflow is where we stayed which is tucked into the trees and has a creek running through it."

    5. Yankee Designated Dispersed Camping Area

    7 Reviews
    Parowan, UT
    7 miles
    Website

    "Much of the Dixie National Forest is burned but the immediate area has ample trees of many colors. This is remote so no amenities at all. We have a small rv and made the .trip no problem."

    "The drive into the campground was beautiful with trees starting to turn fall colors with the backdrop of vermillion rock formations and bright blue sky."

    6. Kolob Resevoir

    18 Reviews
    Kanarraville, UT
    20 miles
    Website

    $53 / night

    "Beautiful campground on a lake. During the winter there's alot of snow, so it's hard to camp up there then. Perfect during the summer. No reservations & free camping."

    "Campsite #4 was great with privacy and direct lake access. No bug/ mosquito issues when we went in September. Weather fluctuated from 70s in the day to 30s at night."

    7. Tom Best Spring Road FR117 Dispersed - Dixie National Forest

    71 Reviews
    Tropic, UT
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 865-3700

    "October 15, 2020

    We wanted to be close to Bryce Canyon but not in all of the hub and chaos of people. This location is about a 10 minute drive away from Bryce. "

    "Plenty of free camping opportunities as you drive down the dirt road. Space between sites is ideal so noise isn’t a problem."

    8. Coal Creek

    5 Reviews
    Cedar City, UT
    10 miles

    "I had discounted it at first because someone indicated the need for high clearance. We had no problem with our sprinter except the bumper hitch drug a tiny bit."

    "Close to town for anything you need.

    It was a little crowded but the heavy presence of evergreen trees allows plenty of privacy. We actually didn’t hear any other campers the whole night."

    9. Candy Loop Camp

    2 Reviews
    Brian Head, UT
    8 miles

    "I saw a few spots at the marker but in driving further to find a turnaround spot for my long van I found a few other spots. Found an open space with rock fire spots and was great."

    "Standard dispersed camping, non designated camping. Level spots and good tree coverage. Minimal road noise and 5G service on T-Mobile"

    10. Uinta Flat Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Duck Creek Village, UT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 865-3200

    "There are many different RV and tent sites that you can find dispersed throughout this area."

    "We arrived just before sunset and found a great spot surrounded by big pines and aspen trees. Our spot was closely connected with a few other great spots but we were all alone."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Brian Head, UT

397 Photos of 127 Brian Head Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Brian Head, UT

792 Reviews of 127 Brian Head Campgrounds

  • Susan L.
    Jun. 25, 2022

    Toms Best Spring Road - Dispersed Camping

    Great location in a piney woods!

    Dispersed camping in the beautiful Ponderosa pines of Dixie National Forest. The Forest Service road is easy to navigate. There are many dirt roads branching off of it with sites to choose from. Chose a site relatively close to the forest service road. If you're sensitive to dust may want to choose a site further off the access road as there is lots of dust kicked up every time someone drove in or out on the gravel. Convenient location to Bryce (about 15 minutes). Cell service for Verizon.

    When the rigs pulling in and out stopped, the only sounds were the braying of cows (the herd wandered into the site) and the wind blowing.

    Views! Peaceful! Free!

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2021

    Cabin Hollow FS #121 Dispersed Camping

    Primitive road access dispersed

    This dispersed camping area is to the west of the more well known Tom Best Road Dispersed area. Still on Dixie NF but access road is native dirt one lane and no gravel or graded...so if very wet or rain could be sketchy access ( hence 3 stars). Sites are along the road upland side in flat spots and alcoves for about first mile or so. There are TT spots and also good overlander sites up higher. I would recon first before pulling a TT up there to make sure you can get a turnaround. No designated sites, no trash, tables, water or toilets. 14d limit. However cell signal is good if a clear line to Wilson peak antennas. Posted map screenshot shows my recon of campsites...trailer icon are sits with trailers, tent icon is more suited to overlander type setups with high clearance vehicles or smaller rigs.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 2, 2025

    Tom's Best Spring Road Dixie National Forest

    Lots of spots off this road!

    Plenty of spots (though we were here on a weekday) and SO CLOSE to Bryce NP! The stars were beautiful at night - even got some photos with my phone. There were some cows but they mostly stayed clear of the road. Road was pretty level and easy for cars to get back (and there were spots right off the road). I already want to come back!

    There was a fire ban in July so bring your camp stove and leave no trace!

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 15, 2021

    Leeds Canyon Dispersed #2

    Overlander site only

    Leeds Canyon Dispersed camp sites are on the Dixie NF. Lower dispersed sites 1-6 are easiest to get into with a TT. Camp in designated spots, camping free for 16 days. No water, no trash, no toilets. Sites are along a well maintained FS gravel road so dust may be a concern. Only a few miles outside of Leeds and Interstate 15.

    Leeds Canyon #2 is behind #1 a hundred yards but requires high clearance and 4wd to access....no TT or RVs. Nice big open area with views for the overlander types

  • Dave S.
    Oct. 3, 2020

    Parowan Gap Petroglyphs

    Wonderful place but please leave no trace

    We stayed here for a week while waiting for a package to arrive in Cedar City. The gap is a beautiful place and the petroglyphs would be as well were it not for the vandalism on them. On some camping apps people are saying just camp anywhere out here. I wanted to clarify that. While there are lots of places to camp please don't make new campsites or drive off roads and in the desert/grass. We stayed in a lovely spot on Jackrabbit Road, but had to drive over a mile to find what I consider an established site. All along the road there is damage from people driving and camping wherever they want. This is tragic and violates leave no trace. So does the many bullet shell casings, broken glass, dog turds, old gun targets, shotgun shells, etc, out here. This is how public lands get closed. It's a nice place and we saw respectful campers, OHV'rs, and bicyclists. Just use existing campsites and roads.

  • K
    Jun. 13, 2022

    Old Highway 89 Dispersed BLM Site

    Quiet camping spot close to Kanab and east entrance of Zion

    We loved this free camping area! 

    There aren't tons of spots(most of it is an open area), but we never had an issue getting one, even during spring break. 

    It's close to Kanab and the east entrance of Zion.

    Please Leave No Trace! Take care of this place so it can be enjoyed by many for as long as possible!

  • Brett T.
    Jul. 19, 2024

    Dave’s Hollow Designated Dispersed Camping

    Nice USFS Dispersed Camping Right outside Bryce Canyon NP Entrance

    When our original dispersed camping spot didn’t work out we drove down the road and found this little gem, right outside the entrance to Bruce Canyon National Park. There are a bunch of designated USFS camping spots. They’re level-ish, fire rings, and pretty easy to get to. We have a 1992 (renovated!) motorhome and we got to spot 17 no problem. We could have gone to 17-19, but then the road got to rough for our old girl. Lots of quads and sideXsides riding on the dirt road, kicking up dust till about 8:30PM but was not a big deal. Solid free camping right near the park!

  • Meg G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 20, 2020

    Tom Best Spring Road FR117 Dispersed - Dixie National Forest

    Fabulous - lots of space, quiet and solitude.

    October 15, 2020

    We wanted to be close to Bryce Canyon but not in all of the hub and chaos of people. This location is about a 10 minute drive away from Bryce.  This is the perfect location to get away from it all.  When you first arrive, you will see plenty of spots for RV's and travel trailers.  We traveled 1.8 miles and took a left turn on a small dirt road and found 5 or 6 campsites that were level and far away from each other. (We were the only one down this road).  

    The site was level with a lot of space to spread out.  There was a firepit but no other facilities, so come prepared with everything you need. Due to fire restrictions, we didn't have a fire, and enjoyed seeing the Milky Way and shooting stars!  There is a pit toilet across the highway before you turn into the BLM land.  

    We thought we would only stay for one night, but ended up there 2 nights since it was so beautiful!

  • M
    Sep. 28, 2020

    Dispersed Camping in Dixie National Forest - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    Secluded atmosphere. Great Views.

    I stayed in dispersed camping spot #5 arriving on August 31st, 2020. There are 11 or 12 designated spots here. There is a sign on the right side once you enter the Forest Service Road that maps all the hiking trails and dispersed camping sites available in the Leeds Creek dispersed camping area. No 4x4 is necessary to get to spots 1- 5. I didn't go all the way up the mountain and see the other spots. The entrance to spot 5 is a horseshoe shape big enough and convenient for an RV. However, for tent campers, you will want to go beyond the bushes for wind coverage and privacy. The space opens up with trails, amazing views, you can here the creek burbling below the canyon. Spectacular stargazing at night and pretty quiet aside from some road traffic. NOTE: tent campers; park your vehicle with visibility in the horseshoe drive in to avoid unbeknownst camp crashers. The coverage is good enough for tent campers that someone could easily believe the campsite was not taken. Also, bees like your trashbag. So, keep it in your vehicle rather than hanging it. Lastly, sadly there was A LOT of litter when I visited. I did my best to clean some of it up while I was there. Please remember to pack in/pack out and leave no trace!!

Guide to Brian Head

Dispersed camping near Brian Head, Utah, offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Brian Head, Utah

  • Many dispersed camping spots, like Kolob Resevoir, allow for campfires, making it easy to enjoy evenings under the stars.
  • Be prepared for varying weather conditions; some campers at Yankee Meadows noted chilly nights, so pack accordingly.
  • Most areas do not have amenities, so it's essential to bring your own water and supplies, especially in places like Mammoth Dispersed.

Top activities while free camping near Brian Head

  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities at Kolob Resevoir, where many campers have reported great catches.
  • For those who enjoy stargazing, the clear skies at Uinta Flat Dispersed provide a perfect backdrop to view the Milky Way.
  • Hiking trails abound in the area, with access to scenic routes near Yankee Meadows that lead to breathtaking views.

Dispersed campers should check out Coal Creek

  • The Coal Creek area is known for its proximity to Cedar City, making it a convenient stop for supplies and amenities.
  • Campers have noted the beautiful views and the soothing sounds of the creek, enhancing the overall experience at Coal Creek.
  • While the area can get crowded, the presence of trees offers privacy, allowing for a more secluded camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping near Brian Head, Utah?

Several excellent dispersed camping options exist near Brian Head in the Dixie National Forest. Toms Best Spring Road - Dispersed Camping offers beautiful sites among Ponderosa pines with easy-to-navigate Forest Service roads and multiple dirt paths branching off with various camping spots. Another good option is Cabin Hollow FS #121 Dispersed Camping, located west of Tom Best Road. For campers heading toward Cedar City, Coal Creek Dispersed offers convenient sites. Most of these areas permit stays up to 16 days, provide no amenities (no water, toilets, or trash service), and require campers to follow Leave No Trace principles. Road conditions vary by location, with some areas requiring high-clearance or 4WD vehicles, especially after rain.

What BLM land is available for camping around Brian Head?

BLM land around Brian Head offers several dispersed camping opportunities. Parowan Gap Petroglyphs provides beautiful camping near fascinating rock art, though campers should note that camping is only permitted in designated areas to protect the archaeological site. Old Highway 89 Dispersed BLM Site is another excellent option, offering free camping with good access and proximity to attractions like Kanab and Zion National Park. For those willing to travel a bit further, BLM land near Kolob Terrace Road provides additional options. Most BLM sites follow the standard 14-day stay limit and require campers to use existing fire rings and practice Leave No Trace principles. Always check current conditions and restrictions before heading out.

Are there any free camping options in Brian Head compared to established campgrounds?

Yes, numerous free camping options exist around Brian Head as alternatives to paid established campgrounds. Leeds Canyon Dispersed #2 offers free camping for up to 16 days in the Dixie National Forest, with sites along a well-maintained gravel road. Lower sites 1-6 are especially accessible for travel trailers. Dave's Hollow Designated Dispersed Camping provides another free option with level-ish sites and fire rings near Bryce Canyon. These dispersed areas lack amenities found at established campgrounds (no water, toilets, or trash service), but offer more privacy, flexibility, and cost savings. Most sites are first-come, first-served, so arriving mid-week or during off-peak seasons improves your chances of finding a spot.

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