Dispersed camping near Gunlock, Utah offers isolated backcountry sites across public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management and the Dixie National Forest. Most locations sit at elevations between 3,000-4,500 feet, creating significant temperature swings between seasons. The red sandstone landscapes contrast with juniper forests, offering variable terrain for primitive campsites.
What to do
Explore nearby water features: Cedar Pockets Pass Road provides convenient access to the Virgin River Gorge recreation areas. "The developed CG across the hwy is a way better option... cheap $8/$4 with restrooms, dumpster, water spigot, tables and fire rings," notes one camper about facilities near the Cedar Pockets Pass Road dispersed camping area.
Hiking from camp: Several trails connect directly to camping areas, making day hikes convenient. At North Creek Dispersed Camping, "Birds were singing all around--loved it! Good cell service," according to one visitor who found the area peaceful for nature exploration.
Target shooting opportunities: Some dispersed areas permit target shooting, though regulations change seasonally. Near Blake Gubler Road BLM, one camper warned, "People shoot out here and there are a ton of bullets and broken glass to show for it... So if you have dogs, DO NOT let them run around off leash in this area."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the separation between designated sites. At Leeds Canyon Dispersed #1, visitors noted that camping spots are "really spread out" with "far from other campsites so you'll get a private sense."
Natural features: The landscape offers distinctive camping experiences. "It's basically a large lot with scrub brush access at the back. No trash visible. Quiet and low key," reports a camper at Black Rock Road Dispersed camping area, highlighting the accessibility while maintaining natural features.
Water access at select sites: Some primitive camping spots near Gunlock offer seasonal creek access. At North Creek Dispersed Camping, a camper shared that "the stream is a great place to put some chairs and cool off," providing relief during hot weather.
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary by location and season: Always check current regulations before planning campfires. At Black Rock Road Dispersed camping, one visitor advised, "don't go too deep without a 4x4 and big tires and bring firewood."
Road conditions change rapidly: Weather impacts accessibility to most sites. A camper at Enterprise Reservoir Campground noted that "lakeside dispersed camping is competitive, so get there early on a Friday if you plan to be there over a weekend."
Land jurisdiction matters: Some areas require permits. "The large open area is actually AZ State Trust land and you need a $15/$20 permit, unless you go out to the BLM," explains a camper about Black Rock Road Dispersed camping area.
Cell service variability: Coverage depends on specific location and carrier. At Cedar Pockets Pass Road, campers report, "We had decent T-Mobile LTE service. Quiet and star studded night."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for shade: Temperatures can soar, especially in summer months. At the Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed area, a visitor mentioned it's "right next to the creek, generally quiet with few other campers. Nice and dark at night for star gazing, and shade trees for during the day."
Accessible swimming spots: Some areas offer water recreation opportunities. Enterprise Reservoir Campground offers "lakeside dispersed camping" where "the lake does get pretty busy with a fair amount of ATV activity and kayakers."
Safety considerations: Remote areas require preparation. At Dixie National Forest FR901 Dispersed, campers describe the area as having a "bit grassy and lava rock-y" terrain, which is "wildly different and a nice change from the red sandy areas."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility varies dramatically: Not all areas accommodate larger rigs. At Blake Gubler Road BLM, a camper with a 36' rig noted, "We found a spot farther up the trail that would fit a standard Class C. There's a spot farther up the trail that would fit a standard Class C."
Turnaround challenges: Scout ahead if possible with large vehicles. A camper at Leeds Canyon Dispersed #1 advised, "We went with 26ft trailer mid march. As someone else mentioned it is good for rv only on the first four or so. After that we wondered how we were going to turn around."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts RV camping significantly. At Enterprise Reservoir Campground, RVers note that "the lake does get pretty busy with a fair amount of ATV activity and kayakers, which we don't mind, but it may be an important point for others. No shade trees."
