Best Dispersed Camping near Brian Head, UT

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.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Brian Head, Utah (123)

    1. 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."

    2. 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."

    3. Mammoth Dispersed

    11 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!!"

    "There is a nice stream at the camp and lots of OHV trails. We went for 4th of July weekend. Came in Thursday night and had no problem finding a spot, however by Saturday it was crazy busy."

    4. Bear Flat

    7 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."

    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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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Brian Head, UT

768 Reviews of 123 Brian Head Campgrounds



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

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Brian Head, UT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Brian Head, UT is Coal Creek Dispersed - Cedar City with a 3.4-star rating from 12 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Brian Head, UT?

TheDyrt.com has all 123 dispersed camping locations near Brian Head, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.