Dispersed camping options near Glendale, Utah offer campers a strategic location at 5,800 feet elevation between Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. The higher elevation provides temperatures typically 10-15°F cooler than surrounding areas like Kanab or St. George during summer months. The region features a mix of established campgrounds and free Bureau of Land Management sites with varying levels of accessibility.
What to do
Explore slot canyons nearby: Twin Hollows Canyon dispersed camping area is located just 14 miles from Zion National Park and features unique geological formations. "Playing in the creek was great for my eight-year-old (be careful of cyanobacteria in area) as well as exploring the tunnel. Oh and the tadpoles and snakes in the creek are awesome too!" shares one Twin Hollows Canyon visitor.
Visit both national parks: The central location provides excellent access to major attractions. "This campground is right outside the east entrance to Zion, which was super convenient. It's right off the highway, which makes it easy to get to but not super quiet," notes a camper from Zion RV and Campground.
Stargaze without light pollution: The remote location offers exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. "There is a bit of garbage and stuff dumped over the edges if you look for it. No odour no flies. Nice breeze. Felt safe. Quiet as its buffered from the highway," reports a visitor to Mt Carmel Old 89 Dispersed Camping.
What campers like
Access to shower facilities: After hiking, clean facilities make a big difference. "The campground has bathrooms (reasonably clean), drinking water, and dumpsters for trash. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring," notes a camper about South Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting provides close encounters with animals. "We had deer strolling through our campsite in the morning. Will definitely return," mentions a visitor to Watchman Campground.
Temperature advantages: The elevation provides relief from summer heat. "It's a higher elevation than Zion and anything around Kanab, makes for cooler nights," notes a camper at Bryce Zion Campground.
What you should know
High clearance vehicles recommended: Some dispersed sites have challenging access roads. "You need very high clearance to get to this camp site. Very rough road to get to it. Could not get all the way there," cautions a visitor about Twin Hollows Canyon.
Reservation requirements vary: Planning ahead is essential for popular campgrounds. "South campground used to be first come, first serve but is now reservable, with sites opening on a rolling basis two weeks in advance," explains a camper.
Limited amenities at free sites: Be prepared for basic conditions at dispersed locations. "This is BLM land so its free, and no amenities. Pack it in and pack it out. You drive down a gravel road into a ravine," explains a visitor to Westside Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly features: Some sites offer special attractions for children. "The tent sites back up to a horse pasture which is pretty cool. Sites are clean and each have a fire pit, table and most have a tree. There is a stream and 2 mile hiking trail located in the camp," notes a visitor to Bryce Zion Campground.
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