Dispersed camping locations near Farr West, Utah extend from the foothills to alpine elevations between 5,000-9,000 feet. The area features a mix of sagebrush-covered hillsides at lower elevations with aspen and fir forests dominating higher grounds. While most sites lack facilities, campers appreciate the seclusion and natural setting that's often accessible from May through October, though higher elevations may have snow into June.
What to do
Explore local trails: Several camping areas provide trail access for hiking and mountain biking. At Middle Fork Conservation Area, visitors can walk through valleys with wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper reported, "It is down a dirt road in a valley surrounded by cattle and deer and elk."
Bird watching: The canyons around Farr West offer excellent bird watching opportunities. Near Spiral Jetty, the remote location provides unique bird habitat. Though primarily known for the land art installation, the area offers "a beautiful location for one night" according to one reviewer who noted the interesting ecosystem where the Great Salt Lake meets the desert.
Backcountry exploration: For more adventurous campers, the rugged terrain provides backcountry experiences. Around Millcreek Canyon Backcountry, one reviewer mentioned, "You can backpack in and camp anywhere a 1/2 mile from any road like the other nearby canyons. Good trails to approach from are Church fork and Lambs Canyon Trailhead."
What campers like
Canyon stream access: Many campers appreciate sites near water. At Smithfield Dispersed Campsite, one reviewer noted it's "very beautiful with lots of greenery and a river through the whole canyon." Another mentioned the "creek running through it" as a highlight.
Wildlife viewing: Several camping areas offer wildlife observation opportunities. A camper at Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin enjoyed the natural setting, noting it was "very quiet, barely any people" and mentioned the "nice view of the sunset."
Fall colors: The mountainous areas around Farr West showcase spectacular autumn foliage. One camper at Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo described the experience: "It was the end of September and all the leaves were changing... Can't recommend this spot enough."
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access to many sites requires navigating unpaved roads. A camper visiting Bountiful B Dispersed noted, "The road up takes about 25 or 30 minutes to get to the coords. Its a bit rough but if you have awd or 4wd its no problem."
Site availability challenges: Popular areas fill quickly, especially on weekends. Regarding Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo, a camper advised, "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."
Seasonal closures: Many free camping options near Farr West have limited seasons. A visitor to Green Canyon Dispersed Campground noted, "Road to dispersed camping is closed Dec 1 - April 15. Permit fee is $10 for 3 days."
Site cleanliness concerns: Some areas have trash issues. At Bountiful B, campers found sites "LITTERED with spent ammo, broken glass and broken pieces of clay pigeons. Another group camping near us told us they found the same at their site."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with shade: For comfort during summer months, seek shaded locations. A reviewer at Smithfield Dispersed Campsite mentioned there's "lots of greenery" which provides natural shade and cooler temperatures for family camping.
Look for flat tent areas: Many dispersed sites have limited flat ground. One camper at Monte Cristo noted some sites are suitable for "smaller vehicles and tents" while others might be on hills or uneven ground.
Consider noise levels: Some areas experience higher traffic and noise. A camper at Green Canyon observed, "Lots of traffic even late at night" and others mentioned "people camping, hiking, mountain biking, and ATVs" creating noise throughout the day.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about wildlife safety. A visitor to Bountiful B warned, "watch out for bears and mountain lions as well and make sure you follow the food rules and lock your cars."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many free camping sites near Farr West accommodate only smaller RVs. About Smithfield Dispersed Camping, one RVer warned there was "no warning that the road narrows with no turn around about a mile into the campground" and "the only spaces large enough for my 23 ft RV were occupied."
Boondocking preparation: With no hookups available, come prepared for self-sufficient camping. One visitor to Green Canyon noted the presence of only "Vault toilets in the parking lot at the bottom, as well as at the very top" but no water or electrical services.
Advance arrival recommended: Popular sites fill quickly on weekends. A camper at Green Canyon observed, "I think all the spots filled by 7pm" on a Friday night, making early arrival essential for securing a spot.
