Tent camping near Cedar City, Utah provides access to diverse landscapes ranging from high mountain forests to red rock desert terrain within a 30-minute drive. Most primitive camping areas sit at elevations between 5,000-10,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations with nighttime drops into the 30s possible even during summer months. Many dispersed sites require preparation for basic conditions with limited or no facilities.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls in Leeds Canyon: Visit Leeds Canyon Dispersed #1 where you can access the "Children's Forest at the Kiln" trail. "A sweet little trail leading to a historical kiln" is located "maybe 1/4 mile down from site," according to Lisa S., who also notes Leeds Creek is just "a 1-2 block walk from the site to sit on a rock and soak feet in creek."
Watch wildlife at dusk: Great Western Trail Dispersed connects to areas recommended by Park Service for wildlife viewing. "Lots of wildlife walking around our tent area at night" reports Henry W., while another camper mentions "Sometimes deers are crossing" the access roads, suggesting caution while driving.
Stargaze from elevated viewpoints: The higher elevation primitive sites provide exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. At Lambs Knoll Climbing Site Camping, Henry W. notes the area is "Great for stargazing and a nice view of the valley" though be aware that "a stargazing guide group came to meet up there around 9/9:30 PM" on some nights.
What campers like
Natural sound barriers: Many primitive campsites feature creek access that provides ambient sounds. At Kolob Terrace Road, campers appreciate that "There is a little river that is so nice to go to sleep to and it is very quiet," according to Haley P., while Nick M. notes the area has "Trees for some shade and a small creek."
Proximity to national parks: Primitive camping areas serve as affordable basecamps for park exploration. Kolob Terrace Road is "a great spot close to Zion" that's "only 25 mins to Zion and plenty of spots," reports Haley P., while Kevin T. describes it as "a great spot before or after visiting Zion NP."
Pine forest seclusion: Higher elevation sites offer tree coverage that enhances privacy. Uinta Flat Dispersed Camp features "Nice flat sites in the trees" according to Richard D., with Ethan B. adding "We always look for the pine trees... Easy access and flat sites."
What you should know
Vehicle access limitations: Roads to primitive sites vary in quality and difficulty. At Kolob Road BLM Dispersed, Greg L. warns there are "strongly do NOT recommend TTs or any RV at this BLM spot due to steep downhill rd and no turnarounds! Tent or van nomads only due to no tt turnarounds!"
Temperature fluctuations: Despite desert surroundings, higher elevation camping areas can get surprisingly cold. At Candy Loop Camp, Colin M. reports, "Was in the 30s at night in June so be prepared!" suggesting campers bring appropriate gear for cold nights even during summer.
Cellular connectivity gaps: Cell service varies dramatically between sites. At Kolob Road BLM Dispersed, Meghan B. notes "Cell service is basically non-existent, but sometimes you might catch a bar," while Ian L. simply states "there isn't any cell service and no ammenities."
Tips for camping with families
Designated tent sites: For families wanting more structure, choose established walk-in areas. Lambs Knoll Climbing Site "has 8 designated walk-in tent camping sites that are free on a first come first served basis," according to Alex B., providing a more predictable camping experience.
Bathroom access: Consider camping near facilities when traveling with children. At Mitt Moody Campground, Jake C. mentions "Bathroom nearby and walkway close," while Brandi C. notes "Bathroom was always clean" though "Water is by the bathroom so you have to walk a little to fill up jugs."
Hauling equipment: Be prepared to carry gear at walk-in sites. Brandi C. advises about Mitt Moody, "It is a walk in campground so make sure you pack a wagon to haul your stuff," which is particularly important when camping with children and their gear.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many primitive sites have limited space and tight access roads. Leeds Canyon Dispersed has only "Lower dispersed sites 1-6 are easiest to get into with a TT," according to Greg L., who warns "Site #1 has a back in angle that needs you to be heading back down the road..if a TT."
Alternative parking options: Some RVers find success with unconventional spots. Charles K. reports finding space at Kolob Terrace Road after "unsuccessfully navigating an access point further down Kolob Terr road, we back tracked to an open field just off route 9. No trees or coverage, but enough space to spread out. Small campers to class A's are here."
Early arrival recommended: Popular dispersed areas fill quickly during peak seasons. Clint R. experienced this at Kolob Terrace Road during "Spring Break week every site was packed. We had to wait for someone to vacate before finding something that would work."
