Best Dispersed Camping near Delta, UT

Dispersed camping near Delta, Utah occurs primarily on Fishlake National Forest land and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas. Multiple primitive sites are located along Whiskey Creek Road and West Fork 8 Mile Road in the national forest, with additional options at Pahvant Valley Heritage Trail and near Baker Hot Springs. These undeveloped locations provide basic camping opportunities without designated facilities, allowing visitors to experience public lands in their natural state.

Access roads to many dispersed camping areas near Delta require careful navigation, especially after periods of rain. The roads to Whiskey Creek dispersed sites feature gravel surfaces that can become washboarded, while routes to Baker Hot Springs may have ruts in sections. Most areas remain accessible to passenger vehicles when dry, though high-clearance vehicles provide better access to more remote spots. According to one visitor, "The drive in past the pavement was dusty, but not too bad if we kept it under 30 mph." Most dispersed camping in this region follows standard public land regulations with 14-day stay limits and fire restrictions that vary seasonally.

These primitive camping areas feature diverse landscapes from juniper forests to open desert terrain. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the region, particularly at West Fork Whiskey Creek where, as one reviewer noted, "If you're looking for a fun backpacking camping trip where you're guaranteed to see tons of wildlife, this is it." Many sites offer relative solitude and quiet camping experiences, especially on weekdays. Baker Hot Springs provides the additional amenity of natural hot pools for soaking. Campers should be prepared for self-sufficient stays as no drinking water, restrooms, or other facilities are provided at most locations. Cell service varies by location, with some areas maintaining reasonable connectivity despite their remote setting.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Delta, Utah (18)

    1. Pahvant Valley Heritage Trail Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Oasis, UT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 743-3100

    "Close to hot pots and great hiking areas."

    "This is close to the hot pots and we stay here in the fall or spring. It can get crowded so be prepared not to camp in the caves on a busy weekend. "

    2. Dispersed Sandy Lot

    2 Reviews
    Oak City, UT
    15 miles
    Website

    "Access is easy on and off from a gravel road.. Campers, RVs, and people with tents can easily use this site. No facilities."

    "We were looking for an easy place away from the interstate to split our drive from Idaho to St George in half.  There was no one here at all and found easy place with a tree to set up 26ft tt. "

    3. Whiskey Creek Road USFS Dispersed

    1 Review
    Oak City, UT
    15 miles
    Website

    "Drove another 20 on whiskey creek on a well maintained dirt road. Camp was relatively flat, good trees for shade and elevated to allow for nice views and a breeze."

    4. Dispersed West Fork 8 Mile Road

    3 Reviews
    Oak City, UT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 743-5721

    "I found a spot on Eight Mile road, just off i-15, near the east side of the national forest. I drove up the dirt road for a while until I found a nice flat spot for the night. "

    "This spot is just into the Fishlake National Forest. There is nothing fancy about this location. It is just a grassy spot along the road as you start following the road into the national forest."

    5. Whiskey Creek Road - Dispersed Site

    1 Review
    Oak City, UT
    15 miles
    Website

    "This site is located on the northerly side of the road. A number of fire pits exist in this area. It is readily apparent that others have stayed here in the past and it is a popular spot."

    6. Fish Lake National Forest Campsite

    6 Reviews
    Oak City, UT
    22 miles

    "Quite a few spots accessible by car. A couple fireplaces here and there too. A fair amount of fallen pine and juniper wood there to use for building fires."

    "Super easy access for any car if roads are dry. Lots of places to get back in the junioers a lil and have a nice private place to sleep."

    7. West Fork - Whiskey Creek Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Oak City, UT
    18 miles
    Website

    "You can park at the trailhead and hike up only 2 miles before you start seeing deer and elk everywhere."

    8. Baker Hot Springs Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Lynndyl, UT
    20 miles

    "Multiple pools varying temps from 85-110'f Some creeks burn your toes 180'f Dispersed spots with lava rock rings for fires."

    9. Baker Hot Springs Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Lynndyl, UT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 743-3100
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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Delta, UT

42 Reviews of 18 Delta Campgrounds


  • BoneMonkey ..The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 15, 2023

    Marjum Pass Dispersed Camping

    Open camping with great lines of sight

    Camped on the Western opening of Marjum Canyon. Drove through the canyon a few times. Dispersed camping and small pull-offs all throughout.

    Photos are of the Western slope pouring out of the canyon. As you exit the Canyon heading West, there are pull offs on both sides of the dirt road. Some areas may need high clearance vehicles to get over. There are small pull offs and dirt roads that low clearance vehicles can go over.

    Most surrounding land is BLM land.

    No Water

    No Shade

    No Wood

  • Ean P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 20, 2025

    Fish Lake National Forest Campsite

    Great Spot Just Don’t Camp Here Alone in a Tent

    Great spot for camping with a group. Quite a few spots accessible by car. A couple fireplaces here and there too. A fair amount of fallen pine and juniper wood there to use for building fires. Just remember to drown out your fires with water (there’s a sign).

    I do not recommend tent camping here solo though. This wasn’t my first time tent camping solo either. As I was laying in my sleeping bag inside my tent around 11pm, some creature started stalking me around midnight. I could hear it moving and breathing outside my tent. I managed to scare it off by hitting my car’s “panic button” on the keys. I then packed up immediately and left.

  • Derek E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2019

    West Fork - Whiskey Creek Dispersed Camping

    Wildlife EVERYWHERE!

    If you’re looking for a fun backpacking camping trip where you’re guaranteed to see tons of wildlife, this is it. Not only will you avoid the crowded campgrounds, but you’ll be able to do it without hiking a million miles from your vehicle.

    You can park at the trailhead and hike up only 2 miles before you start seeing deer and elk everywhere. You simply follow the river up the canyon, and choose from any of the small flat locations for tent camping, or pick a couple trees to hang a hammock. Choices are abundant. In the summer months, water is scarce so bring water. If the creek is full and running you can simply filter water.

    There is a beautiful meadow area at the top of the trail before you begin to descend down the other side (another beautiful area).

    Was able to hike in with my 8 year old, and he loved it. Great secluded dispersed spot for wildlife watching.

  • P
    May. 25, 2023

    Dispersed West Fork 8 Mile Road

    Alone with the cows

    I found a spot on Eight Mile road, just off i-15, near the east side of the national forest. I drove up the dirt road for a while until I found a nice flat spot for the night. 

    I could hear some road noise, but had 3+ bars of T-mobile 5g service. Not another person in sight except for maybe 2 cars that drove by during the night. Plenty of cows and cow patties around though!

    Bonus: Eight mile road was a shortcut to westbound highway 50 and a nice way to start the drive in the morning.

  • mason M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 29, 2025

    Meadow Hot Springs

    Relaxing Hot Spring

    Super relaxing hot spring with a few other springs at decent temperatures. Road is bumpy and may be difficult for cars to get back to the main spring but you can always park and walk. Be sure not to leave any trash as this is private property owned by super nice people!

  • Jenny&Tobias P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2023

    Meadow Hot Springs

    A bath tub in the meadows - wonderful

    There are 3 natural hot spring bath tubes on a private property in the meadows. Camping among the cows and having a bath in a natural hot tub while the sun is rising - it's a dream. There are a some camping spots around the springs and a sign that says "Enjoy and please donate" so the visit is by donation and not paying. The road to the hot tubs is very bumpy and mudy after a rain, better walk in. A very beautiful stop when you tired out from driving.

  • J
    May. 9, 2024

    Mountain Mecca

    Off road camping

    Open area looks like local party spot, not for RVs. Lots of spots to pitch a tent, established fire pits. Not far off the main road. Road goes up past water tower and recommends using 4wd to come up to prevent washboard, but any vehicle with awe would do. No amenities and very private.

  • randy C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2021

    Dispersed West Fork 8 Mile Road

    Basic grassy area to camp

    This spot is just into the Fishlake National Forest. There is nothing fancy about this location. It is just a grassy spot along the road as you start following the road into the national forest. There may very well be cattle in the area and that will depend on the time of the year. But, it would make a great base camp from which to ATV or ride horses.

  • randy C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2021

    Dispersed Sandy Lot

    Basic dispersed site right off road

    There is a fire pit. Access is easy on and off from a gravel road.. Campers, RVs, and people with tents can easily use this site. No facilities.


Guide to Delta

Dispersed camping near Delta, Utah, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of locations to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Fish Lake National Forest Campsite

  • This site is perfect for those looking for a quiet night under the stars, with a few ruts in the road making it accessible for most vehicles. Check it out at Fish Lake National Forest Campsite.
  • While there are no amenities like drinking water or toilets, the peaceful surroundings and the allowance of campfires make it a great choice for a rustic experience.
  • Pets are welcome here, so you can bring your furry friends along to enjoy the adventure with you.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Delta, Utah

  • If you're seeking solitude, consider the Dispersed West Fork 8 Mile Road, where you can find flat spots for camping and enjoy the company of local wildlife, including cows.
  • This area is free to camp and does not require a permit, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious campers looking to escape the crowds.
  • Be prepared for some road noise, but the trade-off is a beautiful setting with plenty of space to set up camp.

Wildlife watching for dispersed campers

  • For those interested in wildlife, West Fork - Whiskey Creek Dispersed Camping is a fantastic spot where you can expect to see deer and elk while enjoying a peaceful camping experience.
  • The area is known for its hiking trails, allowing you to explore the natural beauty and spot various wildlife along the way.
  • With ample flat locations for tent camping and the option to filter water from the creek, this site is ideal for a family-friendly adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules for dispersed camping near Delta, CO?

When dispersed camping near Delta, CO, you must camp at least 100-200 feet from water sources, trails, and roads. Most areas have a 14-day stay limit within any 30-day period. At Fish Lake National Forest Campsite, you'll find signs reminding you to completely extinguish fires with water. Meadow Hot Springs exemplifies another important rule: respect private property boundaries and any donation requests. Fire restrictions are common during dry seasons, so check current conditions before your trip. Pack out all trash and waste, use existing fire rings where available, and leave your campsite cleaner than you found it. Vehicle use is restricted to established roads and trails to prevent resource damage.

Where can I find free dispersed camping in Delta, Colorado?

Free dispersed camping options near Delta, Colorado can be found in the surrounding national forest lands. Dispersed West Fork 8 Mile Road offers a convenient location just inside the national forest boundary with flat grassy areas suitable for various camping setups. Cherry Creek Campsites provides wide-open spaces where you can easily find secluded spots, making it ideal for campers seeking privacy. Look for established fire rings which indicate commonly used dispersed sites. Most areas require no permits for stays under 14 days, but always check current regulations. These sites typically lack amenities, so come prepared with your own water, waste disposal solutions, and follow leave-no-trace principles.

Is 4WD required for accessing dispersed camping sites in Delta?

4WD requirements vary by location and season around Delta. At Mountain Mecca, the road beyond the water tower recommends 4WD to prevent washboard damage, but vehicles with AWD can typically manage. Whiskey Creek Road USFS Dispersed features a well-maintained dirt road accessible with standard vehicles, though it requires about 20 minutes of driving from the highway. Weather significantly impacts road conditions—spring thaws and summer thunderstorms can create muddy, rutted roads requiring higher clearance. Most easily accessible dispersed sites can be reached with 2WD vehicles in dry conditions, but having 4WD or AWD provides access to more remote, less crowded spots and offers peace of mind during weather changes.