Dispersed camping near Copperton, Utah allows visitors to explore the Oquirrh and Wasatch Mountain ranges at elevations ranging from 4,500 to 10,000 feet. The area's climate features significant temperature variations, with summer days often reaching 90°F at lower elevations while dropping below 50°F at night in higher terrain. Most free camping sites lack cell service, requiring advance planning and offline navigation tools.
What to do
Mountain biking near Millcreek Canyon: Access various trail systems within a 45-minute drive from Copperton. At Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts, trails cater to various skill levels. "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," notes Sean H.
Wildlife viewing at Squaw Peak Road: Mule deer, foxes, and various bird species frequent the meadows during mornings and evenings. "This site is deep past the meadows near square peak. You continue to follow the dirt road in and on your left is a small depression in the land with a fire pit and ample space for tents or hammocks," explains Spencer L. at Squaw Peak Road Dispersed.
Paraglider watching at Utah Lake: Multiple free campsites offer views of paragliders, particularly on weekends. "The view is gorgeous in the mornings and evenings. Watching the paragliders on the weekends is cool as well," reports Robby K. from Miner's Canyon Dispersed.
What campers like
Solitude on weekdays: Most dispersed camping locations near Copperton see minimal use Monday through Thursday. "We camped towards to the top. It had plenty of room for tents amongst the trees and in the field... Definitely recommend going during the week rather than a weekend because it gets BUSY," advises Jeni N. about Squaw Peak Road Dispersed.
Mountain backdrops for photography: The eastern horizon features distinctive peaks visible from many camping areas. At Miners Canyon BLM, campers appreciate the landscape: "Gorgeous view of Utah lake. Sunflowers and purple hummingbird flowers galore...skyline and stars are stunning," notes Lady Wandlust L.
Strong cellular reception at select sites: Several areas maintain usable connectivity despite their remote feel. "Starlink is a little slower, but maybe cos I am roaming. 60 meg down, 7 or 8 meg up. Visible and Verizon pretty good. Cricket 2 bars," reports Kevin H. at Miners Canyon BLM.
What you should know
Seasonal road closures affect access: Many higher elevation sites become inaccessible during winter months through early summer. "We couldn't access early June road still closed past the ski resort," warns Loren L. about Mineral Basin Dispersed.
Water safety concerns at Utah Lake: Toxic algae blooms occur frequently during summer months, making water contact hazardous. "The lake isn't safe to swim or drink from at this time due to algae," cautions John L. at Miner's Canyon Dispersed.
Fire restrictions vary throughout season: Check current regulations before planning cooking or campfires. "We had fire pits but at this point in time, there was a ban so we didn't start one," notes Jeni N. from Squaw Peak Road Dispersed.
Permit requirements vary by location: Many Wasatch Mountain sites require wilderness permits. "All the camping is backcountry so you can pick any trail and just make sure that you are 1/2 mile off the road and at least 200 ft from developed areas and water," explains Dan G. about Millcreek Canyon.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with natural play areas: Look for meadows and safe stream access for children. "We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river. Just a fun time," recommends Kelli R. from Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping.
Plan for cooler nighttime temperatures: Even summer camping requires warm clothing, especially at higher elevations. "It gets cooler at this elevation so bring a jacket even in the summer," advises Rob M. about Salamander Flat.
Consider day-use areas for trial runs: Some picnic sites allow camping and provide more amenities. "Great for kids and animals. Slots with picnic tables and fire rings. Views are to a gorgeous river view," reports Lilliana J. about Sawmill Picnic.
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions before committing: Many free camping areas have challenging access for larger vehicles. "Rough roads. The main one isn't so bad but the side roads are awful... Perfect for tent camping and small trailers, spots are not big enough for bigger RVs and trailers," warns Juan G. about Squaw Peak Road Dispersed.
Scout locations before sunset: Arriving after dark makes site selection difficult on unmarked forest roads. "With 5th wheel, took a couple sites before we were happy. Landed with large windows facing lake, lovely," shares Kevin H. from Miners Canyon BLM.
Bring adequate water supplies: No dispersed camping near Copperton offers potable water. "No facilities, but we're self contained," notes Kevin H. about primitive camping conditions at Miners Canyon BLM.