Dispersed camping near Green River, Utah provides access to stark desert landscapes with elevations ranging from 4,000 to 5,000 feet. Summer daytime temperatures typically exceed 100°F while winter nights often drop below 20°F. Most free camping areas require vehicles to stay on established roads and disturbed areas only, as the desert's cryptobiotic soil crust takes decades to recover from damage.
What to do
Explore pictographs: Visit the Black Dragon Pictograph Panel Dispersed area where you can view ancient rock art. "Access to this is a bit tricky as you need to take a gate from the interstate. It isn't your typical interstate exit," notes Will M. The area features both pictographs and petroglyphs within walking distance of camping spots.
Visit Crystal Geyser: Camp near Crystal Geyser Dispersed Camp to see a rare cold-water carbon dioxide geyser. "When most people think about geysers, they picture a Yellowstone-like hot spring where pressure from steam sends a tall column of water into the air. In Utah, however, several 'geysers' erupt due to the same process that causes soda pop to shoot out," explains a camper. Eruptions can be unpredictable, sometimes requiring a 24-hour wait.
Mountain biking: Near Athena Slabs, access the newer mountain bike trail system. "The new Athena mt bike trail is close by," mentions Greg L. These trails offer beginner to intermediate terrain across the desert landscape.
What campers like
Solitude and space: At BLM 144 Dispersed, campers appreciate the openness. "Got in around 10pm and didn't pass 1 car, nor did any cars pass me! Felt like I was the only one there," reports Mackenzie D. Most sites provide ample distance between campers.
Convenient location: Many campers value how these sites serve as strategic bases. "If you're following directions from the coordinates it's okay to find in the dark. Can hear the highway. Wouldn't stay here if I wanted to go 'camping', but it was fine to sleep for the night," explains Ocelot T. about Athena Slabs.
Wildlife viewing: Several camping areas offer opportunities to spot desert wildlife. "We found a small pull out between the two trails that take you on hike to the Spirit Arches and Petroglyphs and the other up through the wash to the pictographs," writes Laura M. about Black Dragon, where visitors regularly spot desert wildlife.
What you should know
Access challenges: Many roads deteriorate seasonally. "The place is quite far from the I70. The road is in such a condition that for an RV, at 10 mph, you will lose some dental pieces and will have to reassemble your RV at the end," warns Adan L. about Crystal Geyser's access road.
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night occur regularly. "This picturesque site has great views and spacious sites. This is way more than an overnight sleep, you could stay here 3-4 days for hiking and excellent views at different time of the day," shares Tim Z. about Athena Slabs at Green River.
Changing conditions: Site availability and conditions change frequently. "All the slabs are torn up as of 11/2024, would not risk getting a flat tire for this spot," reports zac W. about Athena Slabs, contradicting older reviews. Always check recent reports before traveling.
Tips for camping with families
Safety concerns: Monitor for hazards at undeveloped sites. "We have dogs with us and there is a lot of junk to watch out for. Some of it from the area's former life and some of it from mis use by users," notes Taz B. about Athena Slabs. Bring a first aid kit and be vigilant about debris.
Educational opportunities: Use San Rafael Dispersed Camping as a base for learning about geology. "Beautiful area to explore with wild burros and breathtaking night skies," says Clint D. The area features unique rock formations that illustrate geological processes over millions of years.
Plan for no services: Pack all necessities for your stay. "It's a dirt field with slab piles and rebar in the dirt. Be careful driving in the field. We still found a nice flat spot to camp," explains Tami H. about camping at Athena Slabs, highlighting the need to thoroughly prepare.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Large RVs face significant challenges on many access roads. "Plenty of room for any size rig" at Cotter Mine Road Dispersed Sites, according to some reviewers, but others caution "Do not drive a big trailer or camper down this road." Assess recent road conditions before committing.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant effort to level rigs. "Easy to get level. Near hwy so a bit of road noise. Wide open space," notes Karla R. about Cotter Mine Road. Bring leveling blocks and scope out potential spots before positioning your RV.
Road preparation: Access roads often feature washouts, deep sand, and obstacles. "Slightly rough road to get into the campsite plenty of places to choose from," reports Paige M. about Cotter Mine Road. Travel during daylight hours to better navigate challenging sections.
