Dispersed camping sites surround Fremont, Utah at elevations between 5,000-8,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between seasons. Most locations sit on slickrock or hardpacked desert soil with minimal shade coverage. Wind conditions frequently intensify in afternoons across the open terrain, particularly at exposed ridgeline sites.
What to do
Hike Thousand Lake Mountain: Access trails from Polk Creek Road Dispersed Camping where temperatures remain cooler than in Capitol Reef. "If you follow the road all the way up you can access Cathedral Valley Campground (great views from up there)," notes a camper who stayed during summer months.
Explore nearby creeks: Black Flat Cua Dispersed provides access to fishing opportunities within walking distance. "This is a GEM if you like to not see a lot of people and love the outdoors. There is some amazing fly fishing in the creeks and lakes in this area," according to a visitor who recommended pinching barbs on fishing hooks.
Wildlife observation: The higher elevation campsites offer opportunities for wildlife viewing. At Polk Creek Road, campers should be aware that "There is a mama bear and cub in the area although we didn't see her," as one visitor reported, indicating the need for proper food storage.
What campers like
Seasonal temperature advantages: Overlook Point Dispersed Site provides elevated camping with cooler temperatures. "We got to Overlook Point late in the day. Super easy to find, right off the main road to Capitol Reef NP. Got firewood from the gas station about 2 minutes away," wrote a camper who appreciated the accessibility.
Cell service reliability: Many dispersed sites offer unexpected connectivity. A camper at Cooks Mesa Trailhead Dispersed noted, "Lots of open area to camp. Right off the road. Cell service is a plus!" This makes these locations suitable for remote workers.
Accessibility without crowds: Many free camping areas near Fremont offer isolation without difficult access. At Cooks Mesa, "If you're someone who hasn't upgraded to 4x4 yet, you won't have issues accessing this site," according to a recent visitor who found numerous available spots during peak season.
What you should know
Wind management: Most exposed sites experience significant wind, particularly at elevated locations. A camper at Beas Lewis Flat Dispersed warned, "We pulled in tonight after leaving Bryce. Very popular but this place has many spots. Very windy!!!! I would be cautious of tent placement."
Vehicle recommendations: Roads deteriorate quickly after rain. "The road is a little rough in spots, so slow is good," noted a visitor at Overlook Point, while another camper at Sand Creek Road Dispersed mentioned it's "Easily accessible with a low clearance vehicle."
Seasonal hazards: Summer brings intense heat while winter access becomes limited by snow. At Capitol Reef Dispersed Camping, one visitor noted, "Weather is cooler than in Capitol Reef so it's a nice place to recharge and escape the heat."
Wildlife concerns: Higher elevation sites have increased wildlife activity. A Polk Creek Road camper recommended, "Remember to pack out your garbage," which helps minimize attracting bears reported in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Protected campsite selection: Choose sites with natural wind barriers for tent camping. "We camped down in the gully a little to get out of the wind. Beautiful view of thousand lake mountain and surrounding red rock," noted a camper at Capitol Reef Dispersed Camping.
Water planning: No potable water exists at these sites. At Overlook Point, families can find "Lots of spots to choose from with amazing views!! Plenty of room to spread out with trees for a little privacy," but must bring all water needed for drinking, cooking and cleaning.
Emergency services awareness: The nearest medical facilities are limited, with Torrey having basic services while more comprehensive care requires traveling to larger communities. Cell service at most sites allows emergency calls, with a Cooks Mesa visitor confirming "Great spot to pull out for the night or more... Bumpy for the first bit off the road but easily accessible for vans and cars alike."
Tips from RVers
Level site hunting: RVers should scout for naturally level areas, as few sites are graded. At Overlook Point, an RVer with a fifth wheel noted, "No issues finding a spot for our 30ft 5th wheel. Very quiet and right off the highway. Plenty of spots mostly level. Can be very windy."
Road hazards: Many entry roads have obstacles requiring careful navigation. "Take care driving in as there are large rocks on the entry track," warned an RV camper at Capitol Reef National Park Dispersed Camping, while another at Beas Lewis Flat advised, "Our 26ft Class C Motorhome here although we were towing a dolly and our drop hitch did get stuck on a steep part and we had to dig it out."
Generator etiquette: Generator use varies between sites and can cause conflicts. One camper at Capitol Reef National Park Dispersed Camping reported, "My only nit pick was that people in larger RVs didn't respect your space, parking 20 feet away when there were 5 or 6 very large spaces available... We did [leave] when the RV that was 20 feet away pulled out 2 generators."
