Dispersed camping areas near Emery, Utah include Bureau of Land Management land across the San Rafael Swell region where temperatures can range from over 90°F in summer to below freezing in winter. Most sites sit at elevations between 4,000-7,000 feet, creating dramatic temperature swings between day and night. The terrain consists primarily of sandstone and clay formations, with some areas featuring exposed bedrock that can damage tent stakes.
What to do
Hiking to petroglyphs: Head to Rochester Rock Camping where you can access nearby petroglyph sites. "There's a trail out to a petroglyph site which was really neat. We hiked out in the morning and didn't encounter anyone else," notes one visitor who appreciated the smooth gravel road access.
Mountain biking: The Little Grand Canyon area offers excellent mountain biking opportunities on the rim trails. "I loved the site I found. I could walk about 30 seconds away to the rim of the canyon. There is a great trail west of the campsites. I walked it and road my mountain bike along it for a little while," explains a camper who stayed at Little Grand Canyon Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife viewing: The open desert landscape provides opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Dispersed Site - Last Chance Rd, you might encounter various desert species, though one camper warns about seasonal challenges: "Arrived 3Jul24 at dusk. There is standing water marsh with a frac tank, possibly for water for the quarry above. Got out of the car to give dog a break and within one minute was scrambling back in" due to mosquitos.
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: The remote location creates exceptional conditions for viewing night skies. A visitor to BLM Dispersed Exit 108 Lone Tree Road reported, "Totally alone and loving it. Far enough off the road, but still good service. Absolutely gorgeous." Another camper at Little Grand Canyon Dispersed Camping shared similar sentiments: "Absolutely stunning views and the most beautiful night skies I've ever seen."
Canyon views: Many sites offer direct views of impressive geological formations. "Amazing views, plenty of space. Follow the signs to 'The Wedge'. After you get to the lookout area, there are plenty of dispersed camping spaces with fire rings along the edge of the canyon, and more inland," explains a visitor to Little Grand Canyon Dispersed Camping.
Solitude: The remote locations provide true isolation. At Fish Lake National Forest, campers report: "Close off I70, a little washboard on lower road. I passed several occupied sites but found a gorgeous pull through with beautiful views. Minor I70 noise, had cell service- T-Mobile. Private, only had 3 cars drive by in 18 hours."
What you should know
Weather preparation: Conditions can change rapidly and vary dramatically between seasons. At Wedge Overlook, one camper noted: "We stayed here at the very beginning of October. It was 80 during the day and 40s at night, so dress accordingly." Another visitor experienced "a severe wind storm but everything held together and besides a lack of sleep, we all survived."
Road conditions: Access roads vary widely in quality. For Dispersed Campground - Goblin Valley, a camper warns: "If you continue down the little wild horse road, there are just as many options along that road up to the next fence line. Camping is first come first serve and it is a popular destination so get there early for the good digs!"
Cell service variability: Coverage depends on proximity to infrastructure. At BLM Dispersed Exit 108 Lone Tree Road, one camper reports: "Cell signal close to Fwy I70 is very good TMobile and ATT, but not so good Verizon. This is pure desert dispersed exploration camping."
Tips for camping with families
Explore nearby slot canyons: The area offers family-friendly adventure opportunities. "We loved this site! There are a lot of little canyon trails to explore for all ages! Super close to both Goblin Valley and Little Wildhorse Canyon! Highly recommend the Little Wild Horse Canyon / Bell Canyon hike," shares a visitor to Dispersed Campground - Goblin Valley.
Consider seasonal timing: Extreme temperatures affect comfort, especially with children. "This is a great spot to pitch your tent! This area is quite popular and located just past the Goblin Valley State Park line along Little Wild Horse Road. Make sure to bring firewood, there isn't anything to gather. There are no trees," advises another Goblin Valley camper.
Bring entertainment: The open landscape provides natural playgrounds. "We found a great space tucked into the cliffs that provide privacy, space for the kids to explore and play for hours on end, and enough space that we could spread out our camp," explains a family who stayed at Dispersed Campground - Goblin Valley.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Finding appropriate spots requires planning. At Capitol Reef National Park Dispersed Camping, an RVer advises: "Level sites for RVs and lots of tent suitable spots. A tad windy as quite exposed. Stunning views."
Clearance considerations: Many roads require higher clearance vehicles. One camper at BLM Dispersed Exit 108 Lone Tree Road explains: "It's a good graded gravel road going south, but as you get further in there are some dry-creek crossings that can need high-clearance. If they're real sandy or muddy than plan on 4WD. But plenty of space before those obstacles."
Water planning: With no sources available, bringing adequate water is essential. "This primitive road goes for miles to the south into the north end of Capitol Reef Nat park, overlander types only! Great spot if dry for an overnight stop," notes a visitor describing the rustic camping near Emery, Utah.
