The Brian Head region sits at elevations between 8,000-11,000 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lower-elevation areas. Free camping options extend throughout Dixie National Forest and nearby BLM lands with most dispersed sites accessible from June through October. Winter snow typically blocks access to higher elevation camping areas from November through late May.
What to do
Fishing at Kolob Reservoir: Located about an hour southwest of Brian Head, Kolob Reservoir offers both shoreline fishing and water activities. "The fishing is great! The trees are magical when they blow in the wind. You can rent kayaks and canoes from the mini market for a great price as well," notes Brittney C. about Kolob Reservoir.
Mountain biking access: Several dispersed sites provide convenient base camps for mountain biking at Brian Head Resort. "This is the second time that I have been to this site. The roads are good. Graveled and ready for campers... my favorite free spot by far with the views and how close it is to all the mountain biking," reports Grace R. from Bear Flat.
Stream exploration: Many dispersed camping areas feature small creeks perfect for cooling off in summer. "We loved this spot! There was a creek nearby that my dogs loved playing in and lots of trails to off road on," shares Kippy B. about Bear Flat, while Amanda L. mentions that at Mammoth Dispersed, "We went with two campers and were lucky to pull into spot 3 on a Friday morning... Plenty of room for the kids and dogs to run around."
What campers like
Remote solitude during weekdays: While weekends can get crowded, weekday camping offers significantly more privacy. "We lucked out. Arrived on Wed, left Fri... Wed was pretty empty but then it filled up on Thursday," explains Brittany B. about Yankee Meadows, adding that "very gorgeous area by the creek."
Creek-side camping: Sites along streams are particularly prized. "Perfect location for any size group. Very quiet and serene. Next to a river and close to Navajo lake. Had some fire pits and a small bathroom. Awesome spot!" shares delaney H. about Mammoth Dispersed.
Cooler temperatures: The elevation provides relief from summer desert heat. "It gets chilly at night so don't forget your sweater," advises Brittney C. about Kolob Reservoir. Daniel D. notes that at Uinta Flat Dispersed, they "found a great spot surrounded by big pines and aspen trees" that provided natural cooling.
What you should know
Road condition challenges: Many forest roads deteriorate after rain. Ryan F. reports about Mammoth Dispersed: "Despite some reviews suggesting that the northern route in from Panguitch is 'sketchy,' we found in September 2025 that the road was well graded and easily driven." However, other campers report different conditions in wet weather.
Temperature swings: The high elevation causes significant day-to-night temperature drops. "Weather fluctuated from 70s in the day to 30s at night. High elevation of 8100' makes for a great escape of summer heat," notes Esther Y. about camping near Kolob Reservoir, while Colin M. shares about Candy Loop Camp: "Was in the 30s at night in June so be prepared!"
Site availability timing: Prime locations fill up predictably. "All the other spots were taken but it cleared out Monday afternoon and we had the whole place ourselves for the rest of the week. We left on a Thursday morning and people were already scouting spots for the weekend," observes Amanda L. about Mammoth Dispersed.
Tips for camping with families
Creek-accessible sites for children: Select spots with safe water play options. "We ended up finding a nice secluded spot off one of the dirt roads a little over a mile in. Spots are a little more spread out off the main drag and more in the trees which was nice for shade and hanging a hammock," reports Jeanie P. about Tom Best Spring Road.
Avoid holiday weekends: Family camping during non-holidays provides better experiences. "During our Labor Day trip, the area was crowded with ATV, UTV, and general vehicle traffic—many of them flying by campsites at high speeds with loud music, which made it hard to relax," Ryan F. cautions about Mammoth Dispersed.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings offer wildlife sightings. "We really enjoyed the night. We had internet access via T-Online. Access is via a dirt road and is easily manageable even with a 2WD. In the morning, we saw numerous deer," shares Thomas R. about Uinta Flat Dispersed.
Tips from RVers
Road reconnaissance recommended: Scout roads before bringing larger RVs. "This so called designated dispersed is actually more like a regular developed CG, with gravel pads, and a vault toilet. Don't even come on from the north on that sketch road, it was narrow rocky and VERY STEEP into the hole the CG is in. Come on on south end thru the subdivision housing area," advises Greg L. about Yankee Meadow.
Limited big rig options: Few sites accommodate larger RVs. "We drove around to every spot for an hour today trying to find one that we'd fit into... They're all on the smaller side and are perfect for tents, vans, SUVs, and smaller trailers," reports Francisco F. about Yankee Meadows, noting that in their 36-foot Class A, they found only two suitable spots.
High clearance requirements: Some forest roads demand appropriate vehicles. "Easy to miss pulloff and extremely rough road. I was able to get a 24ft class C up and off the road a bit but was definitely nerve racking," shares Will about Coal Creek Dispersed near Cedar City, adding that they "didn't go too far back because of the road."
