Dispersed camping near Farmington, Utah provides access to secluded sites across varying elevations from 5,000 to 9,000 feet in the Wasatch Mountains. The camping season typically runs from late May through October, with many areas imposing seasonal closures for snow and wildlife protection. Higher elevation sites offer temperature relief during summer months, often 10-15 degrees cooler than valley temperatures.
What to do
Mountain biking trails access: Millcreek Canyon features excellent trail connections, with one visitor noting that "Millcreek Canyon is home to some wonderful trails that can be accessed by foot or bike. Although the canyon offers many hiking trails, the main use of the trails seems to be for trail running." The area charges "a 5$ per car fee sneaking at the entrance."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Mineral Basin Dispersed camping area provides good habitat for wildlife viewing. According to a visitor, "We woke up to the noises of the wildlife around us, and the beautiful sunrise over the mountains." The area is accessible via dirt roads from the Wasatch State Park side, though some sections require high clearance vehicles.
Summit hiking from camping areas: For those seeking elevation, Lake Desolation Primitive Sites connect to nearby peaks. One hiker reports, "We 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."
What campers like
Fall color viewing: Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo is particularly popular during autumn. One camper described their experience: "We came during a week day and the whole site was empty! Very quiet, very pretty, and very colorful." Another visitor confirmed the spectacular seasonal display: "It was the end of September and all the leaves were changing."
Star gazing conditions: Albion Basin offers exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. A camper shared their experience: "If weather permits, leaving off the rain fly provides an exquisite view of the milky way as you drift off to sleep." The site requires at least a half-mile hike from parking areas to reach legal camping spots.
Water features at sites: Some campers appreciate spots near water sources. One reviewer of Bountiful B Dispersed noted "Some awesome flat areas with a creek if you go in spring. Nice and quiet." Creek access provides both ambiance and practical water access for camping needs, though water should be treated before consumption.
What you should know
Road condition warnings: Access roads to many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. At Mineral Basin, "The ride up to mineral basin was dirt roads with amazing views," but visitors should know that "If you want to drive a bit higher into Mineral Basin than our campsite, a high clearance or off-road vehicle is required."
Seasonal closures impact access: Many areas have strict seasonal opening dates. A visitor to Millcreek Canyon warned: "Camping doesn't open until July 1st so take that into account." Another reported, "Warning - road is closed 3.5 miles into the park before where camping spots were indicated. No notice on when it would reopen."
Distance requirements from roads: Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts enforces specific dispersed camping rules. According to a visitor, "All the camping is backcountry so you can pick any trail and just make sure that you are 1/2 mile off the road and at least 200 ft from developed ares and water." Another camper confirmed, "to highlight this is WALK IN camping only. No car camping or RVs as it requires you to be 1/2 mile off the road."
Tips for camping with families
Easy access family spots: Some areas provide more family-friendly access than others. One visitor to Millcreek Canyon shared: "We love Millcreek Canyon for camping, hiking, or even just going up for dinner at their day use spots. Pet friendly. One of our families favorite canyons. We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river."
Good first backpacking experience: For families ready to try backpacking, Twin Peaks Wilderness offers accessible options. A visitor noted that "The best spots are more than a mile in at the meadows anyway! Beware of moose as they are commonly spotted hanging out in the lakes near the meadows."
Safety considerations: Middle Fork Conservation Area provides family-friendly terrain but comes with cautions. A family camper reported: "A local ranger came by to chat and told us it can get busy with local homeless people and drug users, just FYI. But overall we felt completely safe and our neighbors were nice and friendly!"
Tips from RVers
Small trailer access: Monte Cristo area accommodates smaller RVs with some limitations. A camper noted: "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."
Limited site availability: RV campers should arrive early to secure spots in popular areas. One camper at Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo observed: "There are tons of free site all up and down the main road. The only problem is it is busy if you leave on Friday plan to get there by 3 at the latest. Spots fill quick."
Fire restrictions impact: Seasonal conditions often restrict fires in dispersed camping areas. An RVer reported: "Has a fire pit but with fire restrictions we didn't have a fire. The view is fantastic of hills covered with aspen and fir trees. Quiet but cars can be heard now and then."
