Dispersed camping sites near Brigham City, Utah offer primitive camping experiences at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 feet. These areas typically remain accessible from late spring through early fall, with most forest roads closing after the first significant snowfall. Winter temperatures in the Wasatch-Cache National Forest regularly drop below freezing, while summer daytime temperatures at higher elevations average 70-85°F.
What to do
Hiking access: Curtis Creek and Arbs Basin provide direct access to multiple backcountry trails. One camper noted, "We stayed here for the night on our rooftop tent. It's very quiet, barely any people. There's man made firepits made out of rocks of people who have stayed here." The area connects to several moderate-difficulty trails ranging from 2-8 miles in length.
Wildlife viewing: Split Rock Bay Backcountry Campsites offers opportunities to observe native wildlife in their natural habitat. According to a visitor, "Good hiking trails with great views and lots if animals to see." The designated hiking paths provide observation points where campers can spot local fauna from safe distances.
Winter recreation: Green Canyon Yurt serves as a base for winter activities when snow covers the region. The 3.8-mile trail to the yurt is groomed regularly during winter months and accommodates cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat-tire biking.
What campers like
Fall foliage: Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo offers exceptional autumn landscapes for photographers and nature enthusiasts. A recent visitor shared, "We could not have asked for a more perfect spot. The views were immaculate, the sites were very spread out, it was the end of September and all the leaves were changing."
Secluded sites: Many dispersed camping areas provide isolation from neighboring campers. One Monte Cristo visitor reported, "We came during a week day and the whole site was empty! Very quiet, very pretty, and very colorful." Most secluded sites require arriving on weekdays or during shoulder seasons.
Creek access: Smithfield Dispersed Campsite provides camping options alongside running water. A camper noted, "It's a very pretty canyon with a creek running through it. Would recommend." Sites near water typically fill first during peak camping season.
What you should know
Limited space: Many dispersed sites accommodate only small camping setups. A Smithfield camper warned, "No warning that the road narrows with no turn around about a mile into the campground, or the trees are overgrown which scratched up my sides. The only spaces large enough for my 23 ft RV were occupied, and all of the car-sized spots were also taken."
Fire restrictions: Though most dispersed sites contain rock fire rings, seasonal fire bans frequently prohibit open flames. At Monte Cristo, one camper observed, "Has a fire pit but with fire restrictions we didn't have a fire."
Weekend crowds: Cache National Forest Bridger Campground and other popular areas fill quickly during peak periods. A Monte Cristo visitor advised, "If you leave on Friday plan to get there by 3 at the latest. Spots fill quick."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner backpacking: Cook Campsite provides short-distance backpacking options suitable for young children. A parent shared, "This was a great place to give my 5 year old a taste of backpacking." The site requires only a brief hike from parking areas, making it manageable for families with limited backcountry experience.
Water safety: At Port Ramp Marina, water levels fluctuate significantly with seasonal runoff. One visitor advised, "Beautiful lake, nice beaches, but only if you go in the late summer or fall. Spring runoff makes this lake rise significantly, which completely submerged the beach we were playing on."
Pack extra layers: Temperature variations between day and night can exceed 30 degrees at higher elevations. Nighttime temperatures frequently drop into the 40s even during summer months, requiring appropriate clothing and sleeping gear for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When camping at Monte Cristo with trailers, choose carefully. One RVer explained, "About 1/4 mile down a dirt road from Hwy 39 is a good single boondocking spot with a great view. Not for large RVs. Our 17 ft trailer with 4x4 was tricky to get into the spot because the loop was so small."
Road conditions: Most dispersed camping areas require navigating unpaved forest roads. During spring, many access roads remain muddy from snowmelt, potentially limiting access for larger vehicles or those without adequate clearance.
Limited turnarounds: Forest roads serving dispersed camping areas typically lack designated turnaround points. Vehicles with trailers should scout potential sites before committing to narrow roads where backing up may prove difficult or impossible.
