Dispersed camping sites surround Eggnog, Utah at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 9,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between sites. The high desert terrain features sandy roads that often require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rainfall when washes can become impassable. Most primitive tent camping areas near Eggnog require campers to be self-sufficient with all supplies.
What to do
Hiking nearby slot canyons: From Spencer Flat Dispersed Camping, visitors can access several slot canyon trails. A camper noted, "Keep driving until you find the most epic spot on the ridge. There are dozens of them, so plenty to choose from. Very close to the slot canyons!"
Target practice opportunities: Starr Springs Campground offers nearby areas suitable for safe target practice. One visitor mentioned, "The area is also perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering quick access for off-roading. I was also able to easily find a safe target practice area within a mile of my campsite."
Rockhounding excursions: Starr Spring Campground serves as an excellent base for rockhounding. A long-time visitor shared, "We heard about it from family members who are into rockhounding, and it does not disappoint."
Wildlife observation: The Henry Mountains area provides opportunities to spot desert wildlife. At Starr Springs, a camper reported their son "was thrilled to no end to have been able to pet a bat, a toad, and a salamander."
What campers like
Uncrowded camping even on holidays: Burr Trail Rd Dispersed Camping offers solitude year-round. A camper confirmed, "Got down there early Friday morning on a holiday weekend expecting everywhere to be packed. Outside of a few other campers we had an amazing spot and the animals all loved it!"
Higher elevation for cooler temperatures: McMillan Spring Campground sits at higher elevation in the Henry Mountains. A visitor appreciated that "Private area next to the Henry Mountains with good hiking and camping. Very private and excellent star gazing."
Small creek access: Some tent camping locations offer water features despite the desert environment. At Starr Springs, a camper mentioned, "There is actually a spring nearby, so there's a very small gurgling brook running through the campground."
Shade availability: Spencer Flat Dispersed Camping provides natural shade in some spots. A reviewer noted during winter, "This spot had a fire ring, extra firewood, and enough spots for about 4-6 cars/tents. So a big group can easily fit here. It was a little windy in the afternoon, I positioned my car to block the wind from the fire pit."
What you should know
Water sources limited: Tent camping near Eggnog requires bringing all water supplies. At Starr Springs, a camper advised, "The site is well-equipped, with two bathrooms and three water spigots. Just remember to bring your own drinking water, as the water from the spigots is likely non-potable."
Road conditions vary seasonally: Horse Canyon Camping requires serious off-road capability. A visitor warned, "High clearance vehicles only. We hit our bumper in one spot with 11" of clearance on the truck. No trailers or RVs."
Sand management challenges: The sandy terrain affects tent camping comfort. At Spencer Flat, a camper observed, "Although the sand wasn't a surprise, i was shocked at how much it stuck to everything LOL! But the site had lots of dedicated spots for camping and went on quite a few miles."
Wildlife precautions needed: Tent campers should be prepared for wildlife encounters. At Spencer Flat, one camper reported, "We were nervous about mountain lions as we noticed a lot of tracks when we arrived, and saw even more next to our car in the morning as we were leaving."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds with facilities: Stanton Creek Primitive Campground offers better amenities for families. A reviewer noted, "There are no designated campsites. Find a suitable spot on the lake and set up camp! Although portable toilets are available, you are required to have your own self-contained unit if you camp on the lake."
Beach camping opportunities: Families appreciate water access for recreation. At Stanton Creek, a visitor shared, "We took our camper and found a spot on their dispersed camping area. The water was warm and clear. Kids had a blast on the beach and my brother was able to park the boat right on our beach."
Consider shorter stays for primitive sites: First-time tent camping in Eggnog area might be challenging for families. One camper at Burr Trail Road admitted, "Maybe we're scardy cats. But there was no one else around us, and after the sun went down a spooky vibe took me and my 2 friends over. We ended up sleeping in the car and leaving first thing in the morning."
Arrive early to secure family-friendly spots: The best tent camping locations fill quickly. A camper at Stanton Creek advised, "We planned a last minute trip to the lake over Memorial Day weekend and visited this campground so we could be right on the water. Thankfully, we arrived early on Friday morning and were able to fight the crowds and claim a campsite."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions at most sites: Durffey Mesa accommodates smaller RVs. A visitor described, "Spot on right side, end of a big gravel looking parking lot. Just below two big rock formations and beside a dry creek bed."
Elevation impacts on comfort: Higher elevation sites offer temperature relief. At Starr Springs, a camper noted, "You're a little higher up, so it's a few degrees cooler than below, where you're awed by the vast expanses of mesas and red-rock monuments."
Look for established BLM sites: Some BLM campgrounds offer better RV accommodations. A visitor to Starr Springs explained, "This BLM campground is head and shoulders above your typical boondock campsite, of which there are plenty in Utah... Definitely for the tent/small RV boondock crowd. There are no electric hookups or dump stations, but if you're set up to go off the grid you might be able to fit a small RV or trailer in a couple of these sites."
Check road conditions before attempting: Some tent camping areas near Eggnog are completely inaccessible to RVs. A visitor to Lonesome Beaver Campground shared, "Unfortunately we could not make it to the site. The BLM office said that the road was a 'tire popper'. This was also confirmed by the nearby gas station attendant... I was also told that in order to avoid tire damage it took as much as 2 hours to get up the mountain for a stretch."
