Dispersed camping near Fairview, Utah offers remote options at elevations ranging from 6,000 to over 8,500 feet. Many sites experience extreme temperature fluctuations, with nighttime temperatures dropping below 40°F even during summer months. The terrain varies from open meadows to forested slopes with several sites offering riverside locations along mountain streams.
What to do
Explore mountain biking trails: Near Willow Creek Road - Dispersed Site, mountain bikers can access adjacent trails. "This was a great site to stop and pitch my rooftop tent. Not too far up the canyon, and it was very quiet. It is RIGHT next to a mountain bike trail, so expect some early-morning bikers to be coming down," reports Daniel S.
Search for fossils: The area around Skyline Drive has geological features worth exploring. One camper noted, "I found a few fossils in my wandering of our site," making this a potential spot for amateur paleontologists.
Experience high-altitude camping: For campers seeking cooler temperatures in summer, the upper elevations provide relief. "You can stay 14 days. No permit required. No amenities," explains a visitor to the area, highlighting the self-sufficient nature required for extended stays.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Many campers appreciate spots adjacent to water. At Skyline Drive, visitors enjoy "a cute little creek, plenty of places to pull into to camp, and lots of neat rock formations to observe," according to Tyrinn B.
Off-peak solitude: Weekday camping offers more privacy than weekends at most sites. At Jimmy's Fork - Dispersed Campsite, David C. advises, "Many places to camp. For best selection arrive in the middle of the week. Good UTV trails nearby."
Star viewing opportunities: The remote locations provide exceptional night sky viewing. At one site, a camper mentioned, "The stars were incredible and the view was great when we got up in the morning," highlighting the astronomical benefits of rustic camping near Fairview.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings can be extreme. "The site was easy to find even at 10pm in the dark. The stars were incredible and the view was great when we got up in the morning," notes a camper, but others warn about rapid cooling after sunset.
Road conditions: Many roads become impassable after rain. At Sheep Creek, one camper warns, "Be wary that when it rains, this field turns into a super slick and deep mud."
Site availability patterns: For the best selection, timing matters. "It can get crowded but there is plenty of space," mentions a visitor to Nebo Loop Road Dispersed Camping, while another camper notes, "It got crowded as the evening went on but plenty of room for all."
Tips for camping with families
Level ground assessment: Some areas offer better tent spaces than others. One camper at Sheep Creek noted, "There are a handful of used spots with fire rings already made. There weren't many trees for shade and wind block, but the views are beautiful."
Stream safety: While creeks provide entertainment for children, they can pose risks. A camper observed, "Not sure creekside would be a wise choice during heavy rains as the bank is not very high along the camp spots."
Family-friendly sites: Some locations work better for groups with children. At Nebo Loop Road Dispersed Camping, a visitor mentioned, "Here is a clean public restroom, a peaceful river, and shaded trees. Along the way, there are many nice spot but it's better to arrive early."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many dispersed areas near Fairview have restrictions for larger rigs. One reviewer at Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area cautioned, "Road is in ok shape. Only few places small vehicle can park. Not for RV's or larger trucks really. I could barely turn RV around to go out."
Turn-around space: Checking site accessibility before committing is crucial. "Sheep Creek is a decent spot right off the highway if you're traveling through and need to catch some Zzz's," notes one camper, but others warn about limited maneuvering space for larger vehicles.
Elevated camping options: The higher elevations offer alternatives for those with appropriate vehicles. A camper reported, "If you continue for another 3 or 4 miles you will climb up into some absolutely gorgeous groves of Aspen trees. Although we did not see any Motorhomes up there, there were multiple campsites and several were taken by folks that had towed their 35-45 foot fifth wheels up there."
