The Eureka region of Utah sits at approximately 6,500 feet elevation where the desert landscape creates a unique backdrop for outdoor recreation. Dispersed campsites near Eureka, Utah typically have juniper trees providing modest shade with established fire rings at most locations. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F while winter conditions can make access challenging with snow accumulation at higher elevations.
What to do
Off-roading adventures: Fivemile Pass OHV area offers extensive trail networks for ATV enthusiasts. "This is our go to campground if we don't want to drive too far from our house. We camp just about 1/2 mile from the south side of the 5 Mile Pass exit, there are dozens of flat places to put down a tent. Just know that there are no trees and it gets VERY hot in the daytime. There is no water to play in, but if you're into SXS the trails are AWESOME!" according to one camper at Fivemile Pass OHV.
Fishing opportunities: Vernon Reservoir provides access to fishing approximately 20 miles west of Eureka. "The reservoir had good fishing; we caught a couple tiger trout. We camped in early October and the algae was extreme," notes a visitor to Vernon Reservoir Campground.
Desert hiking: The Paul Bunyon's Woodpile area offers unusual geological formations and desert hiking trails. "We found a great campsite right by the trailhead, the only spot with trees and shade. Easy hike to see the formation, but very hot in July! Went on a usually busy weekend but we were the only people there," reports a camper.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The dark skies around Eureka make for excellent stargazing conditions. "Amazing night sky. This place is pretty amazing with beautiful views of the sunrise, sunset and stars. Lots of ORV trails for the off road enthusiasts," notes a camper at Fivemile Pass.
Wide-open spaces: Miners Canyon BLM offers spacious camping areas with lake views. "Stunning views & a quiet night. Holy moly, this place was magnificent! I arrived in the evening and was greeted with an incredible view: a vast lake backed by snowcapped mountains glowing in the light from the setting sun; the lights from Provo, the city across the lake, twinkle throughout the night," explains a visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Campers frequently report wildlife sightings. "Lots of coyotes howling at night, but otherwise great!" says a camper at Paul Bunyon's Woodpile. Desert wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk when temperatures are cooler.
What you should know
Trash issues: Many dispersed sites suffer from improper waste disposal. "I didn't give Miner's Canyon five stars because of the excessive trash dumping that occurs at the sites. Otherwise it is a very enjoyable campsite. Spacious enough that your neighbors are distant, and quiet for the most part," notes a camper at Miner's Canyon Dispersed.
Seasonal extremes: Summer heat makes camping challenging without proper preparation. "The sites are pretty exposed and many don't have even ground to park and level a trailer," reports a visitor about Vernon Reservoir Campground.
Extended stays: Some areas face issues with campers staying beyond recommended limits. "It appears that the same campers are out here frequently, and for long periods of time. Would be nice if people would limit their own stays for the consideration of others to enjoy this area as well," comments a camper at Miner's Canyon Dispersed.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner fishing spots: Payson Lakes offers family-friendly fishing opportunities about 30 miles northeast of Eureka. "Great fishery for children and youth, as well as an amazing area for swimming and kayaking. They do not allow motorized boats, so it is safe. Also the lake isn't too big so if your teen blows across the lake on his kayak or raft he can easily walk it back around the lake," explains a visitor to Payson Lakes.
Avoid peak heat: Plan activities before 10am or after 4pm during summer months. "Just know that there are no trees and it gets VERY hot in the daytime," warns a camper at Fivemile Pass OHV.
Protected sites: Seek camping spots with natural windbreaks. "Road was easy enough dry, imagine it would be tough after a storm. There are a number of well dispersed sites, some with good wind protection, others less so," notes a visitor to Paul Bunyon's Woodpile.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Goshen Road Dispersed Camping offers flatter areas for RVs. "There is one campsite with a sign that says 3 day public camping. It is a huge dirt lot with a few shade trees and creek. About 1/4 mile after this location are 5 more Creekside campsites on the left side of the road (if coming from Goshen)," explains a camper.
Road conditions: Many access roads require careful navigation. "Very easy access public land right on Utah Lake. Packed gravel and dirt road going in is lumpy from use but smooths out a bit farther in. Side roads to sites are anyones guess. Some are pretty reasonable, others are like mine fields," reports a Miner's Canyon camper.
Self-contained necessities: Bring all supplies including plenty of water. "No facilities, but we're self contained. Maverick gas station about 5 Miles'ish down the road has free dump station," notes a visitor to Miners Canyon BLM.
