Dispersed camping options extend throughout the Dixie National Forest region, with sites located along multiple forest roads at elevations ranging from 7,000-8,000 feet. Temperatures vary significantly with season, often dropping below freezing at night even during summer months. The predominantly ponderosa pine forest provides partial shade at most sites while allowing enough sunlight for solar panels at many locations.
What to do
Trail access from camp: The Thunder Mountain trail system connects directly to several camping areas, offering moderate mountain biking opportunities. At Tom's Best Spring Road, one camper noted "easy access to the Thunder Mountain trail loop, awesome moderate mt biking trail."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide opportunities to spot local wildlife from your campsite. "Pronghorn deer come every day morning and afternoon," reports a camper at Tom's Best Spring Road, while others mention frequent encounters with grazing cattle throughout the area.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing conditions. A visitor to FR 090 - dispersed camping described their experience: "The stars were gorgeous and plentiful and we witnessed a meteor shower in late May."
What campers like
Seclusion options: Numerous side roads branch from the main forest roads, offering increasing privacy. At FR3623 Dispersed, one reviewer shared: "We found a great spot quite easily and only 3 cars passed our spot in 24 hours."
Cellular connectivity: Despite the rustic setting, many sites maintain reliable service. "Verizon cell service was excellent. We found a spot a mile up the road that we liked," reported a camper at FR3623 Dispersed, while another noted good connectivity with both "AT&T and Starlink."
Fire rings: Most established sites feature stone fire rings, though fire restrictions vary by season. At Casto Canyon Rd Dispersed Camping, visitors found "lots of untaken sites up on this hill" where "each campsite secluded, ours had a fire pit."
What you should know
Temperature fluctuations: Due to the high elevation, significant temperature drops occur overnight throughout the year. A camper at Forest Rd 294 Dispersed shared: "We got there at night and woke up to a great view!" while others noted sleeping temperatures in the 20s even during fall camping trips.
Seasonal road conditions: Road accessibility changes significantly with weather, particularly in winter and spring. One reviewer reported in early 2024: "All roads that lead to dispersed camping sites in the Bryce Canyon area are closed by the NPS," typically reopening in mid-May.
Cattle presence: Multiple reviews mention cattle grazing throughout the camping areas. "Cows do wander into the campgrounds from the prairie... so be prepared if you have animals that might have a cow like ours did," advised one camper, while another mentioned being awakened by "cows waking us up in the morning."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection timing: Arriving before peak hours significantly improves site options. A visitor to FR 090 advised: "Id say get here by 4P for a guaranteed spot on the weekend... Definitely get here by 5P," noting that traffic increased substantially after 5:30 PM on Fridays.
Proximity to facilities: While the rustic camping near Dixie National Forest lacks amenities, some sites offer convenient access to basic facilities. "No bathrooms on site as noted, however, a rest area is a mile down the road and it's clean and has running water," mentioned a camper at Toms Best Spring Road.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for seeing large animals at campsites. "Lots of deer around and some cows out grazing in the area, so don't be surprised if you have some visitors at night!" noted a camper, offering an opportunity for wildlife education.
Tips from RVers
Site navigation: Many dispersed areas accommodate larger vehicles but require careful planning. "We drove in about a mile on a nice gravel main road. Found a nice secluded spot about 100 yards off the main road," explained an RVer, adding that they "drove about 2.2 miles down a wide, well-maintained gravel road (FR117), turned right onto FR 268, drove about 0.5 miles."
Solar capabilities: The partial tree cover at most sites provides a good balance for solar power generation. One long-term visitor noted, "Nice combination of tall trees and open space for rigs" and another mentioned "shade if you want it, open fields for solar if needed."
Dust management: The dry soil conditions create dust issues, particularly during windy periods. A camper observed "the worst thing about it is the dryness of the dirt, making it a bit of a dust bowl when the wind kicks up," recommending closed storage for sensitive items.
