The San Rafael Swell dispersed camping areas near Castle Dale, Utah offer free primitive camping opportunities in a high desert landscape ranging from 5,000-7,000 feet elevation. The area features numerous established dispersed sites with access to slot canyons, sandstone formations and desert plateaus. Road conditions vary seasonally with some routes becoming impassable during winter months or after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Multiple technical routes follow the rim of the Little Grand Canyon, with the Goodwater Rim Trail being particularly popular. "We grabbed a dispersed site near the east Goldwater rim trailhead. Excellent pit toilets at the three trailheads... We took Buckhorn Draw Road down to I-70 and then Temple Mountain to Goblin Valley. Very scenic drive. National Park quality stuff," notes a camper at Little Grand Canyon Dispersed Camping.
Rock climbing: The New Joe's bouldering area provides excellent climbing opportunities about 30 miles from Castle Dale. "Really enjoy staying here. Free camping and plenty of activities to do in the area. Climbing (Bouldering). Site seeing (Not far from The Wedge)," reports a visitor to New Joe's Bouldering Area Campground.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution makes this area ideal for astronomy. "You will never see a more beautiful night sky," states a camper at Little Grand Canyon Dispersed Camping. The high desert elevation and clear air contribute to exceptional night visibility.
What campers like
Seasonal flexibility: The San Rafael Swell offers primitive camping near Castle Dale, Utah with varied conditions throughout the year. "I camped here for a couple nights around mid March. The weather worked out perfectly... I'll be returning with the family in May," shares a visitor at Goodwater Rim East Dispersed Camping.
Solitude: Weekday visits typically offer more isolation. "Very peaceful and quiet during the week, however it fills up quickly on the weekends," notes a camper at Wedge Overlook. Winter camping provides even more solitude, as one camper describes: "Mid-January was perfect for me as I like the colder weather and the gorgeous colors of the clay and white snow. I lucked out as no other campers were to be seen anywhere."
Group camping options: Several designated group sites accommodate larger parties. "This is a group designated site, $50, and is one of the best due to the cottonwood trees for shade. Table and fire ring," explains a visitor to Buckhorn Draw Designated group Campsite #16.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings can be extreme. "We stayed here at the very beginning of October. It was 80 during the day and 40s at night, so dress accordingly," advises a camper. Another shares their experience: "Our first night was a tough one. We got caught in a severe wind storm but everything held together and besides a lack of sleep, we all survived."
Limited services: Free dispersed camping means minimal amenities. "This BLM campground now has designated campsites, a picnic table, large deep fire rings, pit toilets and no trash service. Also no water. The actual site now in October is somewhat overgrown with tumble weeds," explains a visitor at New Joe's Bouldering Area Campground.
Road access: Most primitive camping areas require travel on unpaved roads. "The area west of the entrance road junction has plenty of space and sites, but the road is rough/rocky. Some sites are literally right on the edge of the canyon, as is the access road," notes a visitor to Wedge Rim Overlook Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Consider rim safety: Many sites sit directly on canyon edges. "Obviously, caution is needed for these places, especially at night. It's a 1200-foot almost sheer drop to the river bottom," warns a camper at Wedge Rim Overlook Campground.
Plan for supplies: No services exist in the immediate area. "The road leading in is about 20 miles so make sure you have everything you need, but if not there is a town about 40 minutes away," advises a visitor. Another notes: "Closest town is Castle Dale 20 mi away."
Site selection timing: Arrive early for better locations. "Get there early (Friday or first thing AM) to get a prime spot with a view. There were plenty of campsites, but maybe not ones with views directly overlooking the canyon," recommends a camper at Buckhorn Draw Designated Campsite #13.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. "Some were pretty big and could accommodate an RV. We used a tent," notes one visitor describing the variation in site sizes at Little Grand Canyon Dispersed Camping.
Surface conditions: Ground composition affects setup. "The ground is hard for tent stakes," reports a camper, describing the rocky soil common throughout the region.
Access considerations: Some areas have challenging approach roads. "Long access road goes around an eroding gully that could be an issue if raining," warns a visitor to Buckhorn Draw Designated Campsite #13, highlighting the importance of checking road conditions before attempting access with larger vehicles.
