Primitive camping sites near Echo, Utah are distributed across surrounding mountains and forest areas within 30-35 miles of town. Access varies seasonally with most high-elevation sites opening by early July and closing with first snowfall in October. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day and drop to 40-50°F at night, requiring appropriate gear even in summer months.
What to do
Hiking with wildlife viewing: Monte Cristo area offers numerous trails where campers frequently spot local wildlife. "There are many other boondocking spots in this area but this one is a good one...The view is fantastic of hills covered with aspen and fir trees," reports one visitor to Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
Backcountry fishing: Multiple alpine lakes accessible from dispersed sites provide fishing opportunities. At Lake Desolation Primitive Sites, campers can "set out before dawn the next morning to catch the sunrise from Square Top Peak. If you continue along the Lake Desolation trail to the northeast, it joins the Wasatch Crest which leads to stunning views of the Wasatch Range."
Fall foliage viewing: Late September through mid-October offers exceptional color displays. A visitor to Soapstone Basin notes, "We escaped the chaos of a music festival and ran straight into the mountains...The views are unreal, and the quiet is almost otherworldly."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many dispersed sites offer privacy despite proximity to urban areas. At Soapstone Basin Dispersed Camping, campers appreciate that "Soapstone basin is dispersed camping at its best! I stayed here for three nights in July, it was quiet and secluded."
Access to multiple recreation areas: Campers value sites that provide access to various activities. A visitor to Albion Basin - Dispersed mentions that "In addition to having breathtaking views of Devils Castle to the south there are numerous recreational activities all within close hiking distance."
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevations provide relief from valley heat. As one camper at Soapstone Basin noted, "Headed up this way to escape the valley heat. Temps are significantly cooler."
What you should know
Weather changes rapidly: Mountain storms can arrive suddenly with significant temperature drops. One camper at Mineral Basin Dispersed warns, "We couldn't access early June road still closed past the ski resort."
Road conditions vary: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. A reviewer noted about Soapstone Basin: "You can reach the area without four-wheel drive if roads are dry, but if weather's coming, trust me—bring it."
Seasonal restrictions: Most high-elevation sites have limited availability. Regarding Lake Desolation, a reviewer shares, "We lit a fire, drank some whiskey, and kept our eyes out for shooting stars."
Cell service limitations: Coverage is minimal or nonexistent at most sites. A camper at Bountiful B reports, "I have Verizon and had coverage off and on, its enough to send texts but not much more."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near water features: Streams and small lakes provide natural entertainment. At Millcreek Canyon Dispersed Camping, a reviewer recommends "1/3 of a mile up the Mt. Aire trail there are a few premade dispersed camping spots. 1 is good for groups of 3 tents with a nice big fire pit."
Verify fire restrictions: Regulations change frequently based on conditions. One visitor notes, "There is a lot of side by side activity on these roads so some of the corners have been banked/rutted out but a non-lowered vehicle should be able to navigate the roads with only a few bottom scrapes."
Arrive early for best sites: Popular areas fill quickly, especially on weekends. A Middle Fork Conservation Area camper advises, "My family and I were driving through and needed a place to stay for the night. We camped the first night that lot camping was allowed (9/10) so it was quiet and peaceful."
Tips from RVers
Scout access roads first: Many dispersed sites have challenging approaches. One RVer at Soapstone reports, "There is a couple of miles with pretty rocky roads so i wouldn't risk a low clearance car."
Prepare for limited turnaround space: Some roads have tight turnaround areas for larger vehicles. As one camper experienced at Monte Cristo, "About 1/4 mile down a dirt road from Hwy 39 is a good single boondocking spot with a great view. Not for large RVs. Our 17 ft trailer with 4x4 was tricky to get into the spot because the loop was so small."
Small trailers preferred: For most primitive camping sites near Echo, smaller travel trailers work best. A visitor noted, "The road at times was a bit rough for my little Ford escape and tab camper however the sunsets were amazing as was the dark moonless night."
