Marjum Pass Dispersed Camping sits at the intersection of the Great Basin and Sevier Desert, with elevations ranging from 4,800 to 6,200 feet depending on specific camping locations. The area experiences extreme temperature variations between seasons, with summer highs often exceeding 90°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Most camping spots remain accessible from April through October, though winter camping is possible with proper cold-weather equipment.
What to do
Fossil hunting excursions: The limestone formations throughout Marjum Canyon contain world-class trilobite fossils dating back over 500 million years. "The coolest thing about this area is the hermit cave a little further back in the side canyon where the gps dot is. A hermit lived here for 20 years and according to my geology teacher would clear debris off the old highway and sometimes block it when he wanted company," notes Alan B. from Marjum Pass Dispersed Camping.
Overnight stopover camping: The area serves as a convenient waypoint for travelers along I-15. "Perfect place to stop for the night. Road is fine. A few ruts. Super quiet," reports Jason C. from Fish Lake National Forest Campsite.
Scenic canyon exploration: Multiple pull-offs throughout the canyon allow for day hikes with minimal gear requirements. "Camped on the Western opening of Marjum Canyon. Drove through the canyon a few times. Dispersed camping and small pull-offs all throughout," explains a camper from Marjum Pass.
What campers like
Natural isolation: The remote setting provides genuine solitude for horse camping near Delta, Utah. "We had the whole place to ourselves. There are several fire ring/picnic table spots in the campground. Maple trees, evergreens and oak trees throughout. Beautiful fresh air. Plenty of shade," writes Russell W. about Maple Hollow.
Star visibility: Minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing conditions for equestrian camping enthusiasts. "At night the stars where so beautiful while sitting around the campfire and being together while roasting marsh mellows," shares Judy M. from Maple Hollow.
Wildlife encounters: The open terrain supports diverse wildlife including desert bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, and various raptor species. "This wasn't where we planned to camp but got too tired to drive any further. We are in a Toyota Camry and just hammocking. This spot worked out nicely," notes Valorie H. from Fish Lake National Forest Campsite.
What you should know
Limited facilities: The majority of sites have no developed amenities. "No Water, No Shade, No Wood," emphasizes a reviewer at Marjum Pass Dispersed Camping.
Road conditions vary: Access routes range from well-maintained to challenging. "5 mile rough gravel road for access. Could not find a site in the camp itself, but many pull off on the way up. We found a great spot about 1/2 mile back down the access road and spent a couple of beautiful days," reports Bob H. from Maple Hollow.
Prepare for isolation: Emergency services are distant, and communication options limited. "Just make sure to bring a gps locator or satellite phone because no one gets service out here, oh and lots of water!" advises Alan B. about the Marjum Pass area.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife awareness: Teach children proper wildlife observation distances and noise levels. "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," reports Ean P. from Fish Lake National Forest Campsite.
Bring extra water: Pack 1-2 gallons per person per day, plus additional for equestrian needs. "The water was nice and cold which made washing your face exhilarating to start my morning," notes Judy M. about Maple Hollow's water facilities.
Plan for temperature swings: Delta area camping experiences 30-40°F temperature variations between day and night. "The campsite we chosen was perfect for out big tent. The camp ground had place you could go hiking and do a lot of exploring as well," shares Judy M.
Tips from RVers
Size constraints: Most dispersed equestrian camping sites near Delta accommodate smaller rigs better than large trailers. "Looks like there was a flood in the past - destroyed site #1. Remaining 11 sites are nicely shaded among the trees. Limited space for small trailers/campers. Good for campervans or tent campers," advises Andrew M. from Maple Hollow.
Road clearance requirements: Some access roads require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rain. "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," notes Kristy B. from Fish Lake National Forest Campsite.
Supply planning: Stock all necessary provisions before arrival as nearest stores are 30+ miles away. "There was a roundabout at the coordinates and another van was there, but there looked to be 3-4 more small spots for tents or vans. Not sure how many could accommodate a bigger rig," reports Megan W. from Fish Lake.
