Dispersed camping near Centerville, Utah primarily occurs in the surrounding Wasatch Mountains with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 9,000 feet. The terrain consists of steep forested slopes, alpine meadows, and rocky outcroppings that create natural boundaries between campsites. Most rustic camping opportunities require driving on unpaved Forest Service roads that often close seasonally from November through May due to snowpack.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: The Lake Desolation Primitive Sites offer excellent access to surrounding peaks. "The best part about living in Salt Lake City is that you can have brunch at Ruth's Diner at 8am, pack up your car around 10am, leave for the trail by 11am, and be on the trail by 11:30am," notes one Lake Desolation camper who hiked to Square Top Peak for sunrise views.
Trail running: Many dispersed sites provide direct trail access. "Millcreek Canyon is home to some wonderful trails that can be accessed by foot or bike. Although the canyon offers many hiking trails, the main use of the trails seems to be for trail running," explains a visitor to Millcreek Canyon Backcountry.
Climbing and mountaineering: For technical climbers, several areas offer challenging routes. "For the more adventurous there is climbing abound from 5 single pitch crags that surround Cecret Lake and adventurous (read: chossy) mixed multi-pitch routes that will take you to the top of Devils Castle. Would recommend you being confident at at least 11a for even the easiest 10b route," advises an experienced climber at Albion Basin.
What campers like
Night sky views: Clear mountain air provides exceptional stargazing. "If weather permits, leaving off the rain fly provides an exquisite view of the milky way as you drift off to sleep," reports a camper at Albion Basin Dispersed who hiked to a spot 500 feet above Cecret Lake.
Solitude and quiet: Many sites offer privacy despite proximity to urban areas. "We had the entire place to ourselves. Even if you went in the middle of summer, there are enough open, flat areas surrounding the lake to setup camp," mentions a Lake Desolation visitor who found excellent camping conditions.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife populations. "Beware of moose as they are commonly spotted hanging out in the lakes near the meadows," notes a camper at Twin Peaks Wilderness Area, who recommends camping at least a mile from roads in the meadows.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads deteriorate throughout the season. "The road is definitely washed out. You will need 4WD and high clearance to pass through the washouts and rocks which start near the entrance and go all the way to the top," warns a recent visitor to Cascade Springs Dispersed Site.
Seasonal closures: Access varies significantly by season. "Warning - road is closed 3.5 miles into the park before where camping spots were indicated. No notice on when it would reopen," reports a frustrated Millcreek Canyon visitor in July.
Safety concerns: Some areas have multiple uses that affect camping. "Some awesome flat areas with a creek if you go in spring. Nice and quiet. Nearby shooting range," notes a camper at Bountiful B Dispersed, highlighting both advantages and potential noise issues.
Tips for camping with families
Easier trails for kids: Some areas offer gentle terrain suitable for children. "We love Millcreek Canyon for camping, hiking, or even just going up for dinner at their day use spots. Pet friendly. One of our families favorite canyons. We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river," shares a family at Millcreek Canyon.
Water features: Streams provide natural entertainment. "The flowing water provided some great ambiance and white noise while we slept," notes a camper at Mineral Basin Dispersed who found a spot along a small stream.
Advance planning: Most rustic camping near Centerville requires preparation. "Just remember to be safe and keep an eye on the weather to the west, this ain't your typical Wasatch outing!" advises a camper about Lone Peak Cirque, emphasizing the need to monitor conditions.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Few dispersed sites accommodate larger rigs. "Don't come with a trailer. Just don't do it. Sure is pretty but we never made it to the top," warns a Cascade Springs visitor who attempted to bring a trailer up the rough access road.
Level parking concerns: Finding flat spots can be challenging. "We have seen tents as well as trailers camping in this area (as long as you are comfortable pulling your trailer on unpaved mountain roads)," shares a camper at Mineral Basin, noting that small trailers can access some areas with proper vehicles.
Alternative options: Some RVers find better options at designated campgrounds. "Pulling our small off road camper up was challenging in spots due to the heavy rutting and runoff but when we made it up it was a spectacular area!" reports a Cascade Springs camper who succeeded with a specialized off-road camper.
