Dispersed camping near Cannonville, Utah ranges in elevation from 6,000 to 8,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between seasons and day-to-night transitions. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F during daytime hours but can drop below 50°F at night. Clay-based soils in this area become extremely slippery when wet, making some forest roads temporarily impassable after rainfall.
What to do
Explore nearby trails: Several dispersed sites near Tom's Best Spring Road provide easy access to Thunder Mountain trail loop. "There are tons of spots and also very popular especially with people staying a week or so. 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. Close to Bryce Canyon and easy access to Thunder Mountain trail loop, awesome moderate mt biking trail," notes Jeanie P. about Tom Best Spring Road FR117 Dispersed - Dixie National Forest.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide prime wildlife viewing opportunities in the forested areas. "Pronghorn deer come every day morning and afternoon," reports Adam B. about the area's regular wildlife visitors at Tom's Best Spring Road Dixie National Forest. Many campers report seeing deer wandering through campsites, particularly in early morning.
Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, these dispersed sites offer exceptional night sky viewing conditions. "In late October, we were the only campers within site or earshot. A little trickle of a stream on one side and an amazing view of the stars," writes Morgan Y. The clear mountain air and distance from urban areas creates ideal stargazing conditions.
What campers like
Space between sites: Unlike crowded developed campgrounds, the dispersed areas provide natural separation. "I was planning on camping at Bryce Canyon but all the tent spots were taken. It looked super crowded and there was barely any space between the tents. I went on this app and found this hidden gem of a camping spot. It is secluded and the camping spots are pretty far apart from each other, really gives you a sense of solitude and privacy," shares Fernando H.
Proximity to attractions: Free camping near Cannonville offers convenient access to multiple parks. "A great dispersed spot! The sights were a little hard to find in the snow but the rock fire pits made them easier to spot," notes Morgan E. about Dave's Hollow Designated Dispersed Camping, which is "just outside the entrance to Bryce Canyon NP" according to Quinn S.
Natural shade: The ponderosa pine forest provides welcome relief from summer heat. "Super remote, the location was great not far at all from the entrance to Bryce Canyon NP. Fire pits and lots of trees for shade," writes Bree S. about FR 090 dispersed camping. These wooded areas maintain cooler temperatures during summer months while still allowing enough sunshine for solar panels.
What you should know
Weather challenges: Rain can dramatically affect road conditions in dispersed camping areas. "Based on previous ruts, it might be miserable in the rain," warns Mary about Dave's Hollow. For FS500 sites, Barbara L. notes: "It's called slick clay up here when it rains. The road up is passable without 4 wheel drive if the weather is good." The clay-based soils become extremely slippery when wet.
Seasonal timing: Peak periods can fill popular sites quickly. "Definitely show up sooner rather than later, there are lots of spots but they fill up quickly," advises denver C. Jeff P. offers more specific advice for FR 090 - dispersed camping: "Great spot. Close to Bryce Canyon Entrance. I'd guess 20 sites from Maps. Passed 10 to get to ours. 2 were occupied 8 open at 3P on a Friday. Around 5:30-6P vans started rolling by us. I'd say get here by 4P for a guaranteed spot on the weekend."
Dust conditions: Dry forest roads create dusty environments during summer months. "The worst thing about it is the dryness of the dirt, making it a bit of a dust bowl when the wind kicks up... oh, and if you're wearing sandals like me, they, along with your feet will get full of dusty dirt!" shares Kathy H. about camping conditions in Dixie National Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Prepare children for potential wildlife visitors. "Many deer and birds. Bugs also are present," notes Volodymyr S. Henry W. adds: "The campground is beautiful with woods surrounding our site. Lots of wildlife walking around our tent area at night." While mostly harmless, unexpected animal visits can startle unprepared campers.
Bathroom logistics: No facilities exist at these dispersed sites. "There is a rest area about 2 miles east on the highway so that's where I went to use the restroom," explains Fernando H. about Great Western Trail Dispersed area. Planning bathroom stops before arriving at camp saves unnecessary trips.
Temperature planning: Pack for significant day-to-night temperature shifts. "Cold in February!" warns Kate T. about Dixie National Forest camping. Even summer nights can drop below 50°F, necessitating warm sleeping bags and layered clothing options for children regardless of season.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Larger rigs require careful navigation on forest roads. "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," shares Jeanie P. Grant B. notes about Rock Springs Bench: "No problem with access for our 20' BaseCamp. About 5 or 6 sites in the area, several with pull through. Beautiful views all around."
Size limitations: Some areas better accommodate smaller rigs than others. "Scoped this out but a bit too narrow/rutted/angled for our small 20' trailer; amazing for tent and van camping," warns Grant B. about FS500. Sites closer to main roads typically accommodate larger vehicles, while more remote spots may require high-clearance and shorter wheelbases.
Arrival timing: RVers should arrive during daylight hours to assess conditions. "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 too rough for our old girl," shares Brett T. regarding Dave's Hollow designated sites, highlighting how road conditions deteriorate deeper into dispersed areas.
