Dispersed camping areas surrounding Henrieville, Utah sit at elevations between 5,500 and 7,800 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night even in summer months. The region falls within the Colorado Plateau, characterized by sandstone formations, juniper woodlands, and clay soil that becomes notoriously slick during rainfall. The primitive camping options near Henrieville require preparation for sudden weather changes, with temperature swings of 30-40°F common between afternoon and pre-dawn hours.
What to do
Hiking at Kodachrome Basin: Located minutes from Rock Springs Bench, this state park offers unique sandstone formations. "No problem with access for our 20' BaseCamp. About 5 or 6 sites in the area, several with pull through. Beautiful views all around. Mostly quiet and away from it all," notes Grant B.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and evening provide optimal opportunities to spot local wildlife. "Next time you are down in the area, try out these spots. You will not be disappointed," suggests Anthony P. about the dispersed camping near Bryce Canyon National Park.
Star gazing: The dark skies near Henrieville make for exceptional celestial viewing. "We got there at night and woke up to a great view! We were the only ones in the area and at night the stars were so bright and beautiful," shares Nathaniel F. at Forest Rd 294 Dispersed - Dixie National Forest.
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: The strategic location between multiple parks is a major draw. "Sites were very easy to access. You can hear cars passing on the nearby road but still better than having noisy neighbors and RVs. Close to Bryce Canyon and Grand Staircase Escalante," reports paige L.
Solitude and privacy: Many campers appreciate the isolation compared to developed campgrounds. "We came here on a Friday night in mid-June before exploring Kodachrome Basin State Park. I could not believe how close we were to the state park without having any other people around. We had a site all to ourself!" exclaims Hawkin S. about Rock Springs Bench.
Cell service: Surprisingly good connectivity exists at certain sites. "Agree with other reviewer. Turn right at top of the big hill before you get to the waypoint. There's a bunch of sites in there. Two bars of 5G on TMo and a sweet view," reports Kylo G. about the FS500 - Dispersed camping area.
What you should know
Road conditions: Prepare for challenging terrain, especially after precipitation. "We've camped here several times during the spring, summer and fall in our 26 foot toyhauler. Gets pretty hot in the heat of the summer but great in the shoulder seasons. Dirt access road that can get impassable when it rains (and believe them when they say impassable!)."
Seasonal closures: Some areas restrict camping during certain periods. "This place was closed to camping September 7th unless the map took us to the wrong place," warns Kaelyn T. about Great Western Trail Dispersed.
Permit requirements: Some areas within Grand Staircase-Escalante require permits. "We stopped at the visitor center and got a free permit. You're right on the border of GSE, and if you slip up and camp on GSE land without a permit, it's a hefty fine."
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary by season and location. "Due to fire restrictions, you need to drive 1173 or other older interstate dirt roads to find eligible camping areas," advises Kate L.
Tips for camping with families
Weather preparation: Pack for temperature extremes, even in summer. "The campground is beautiful with woods surrounding our site. Lots of wildlife walking around our tent area at night. It's very clean with a few fire pits and is a great temperature in early August," notes Henry W.
Campsite selection: Find spots with natural features for kids to explore. "Only really space for one small group. Used it as a day use spot. Cool rocks next to spot. Road in may be impassable when raining," advises Scott V. about Pump Canyon Springs.
Wildlife safety: Store food properly as wildlife activity increases at night. "Although the sand wasn't a surprise, I was shocked at how much it stuck to everything! But the site had lots of dedicated spots for camping and went on quite a few miles. We were nervous about mountain lions as we noticed a lot of tracks when we arrived, and saw even more next to our car in the morning."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many dispersed sites have limited space for larger vehicles. "Scoped this out but a bit too narrow/rutted/angled for our small 20' trailer; amazing for tent and van camping. On a ledge so beautiful views but visited on a windy day and it was wild up there," reports Grant B. about FS500.
Alternative options: When dispersed camping proves difficult, consider established campgrounds. "When I called, I was told there was tent camping only or rustic cabins. When I explained we had a camper van, I was told it would be ok. Upon arrival, we were told to park anywhere we could find a spot," shares Lee D. about Escalante Outfitters.
Site spacing: Even in dispersed areas, be mindful about camp placement. "If you drive down the road toward Lake Powell (Highway 389)... there are more places to camp, but the road can get washed out or blocked by falling rocks along the way, so be prepared to turn around and head back towards Cannonville."
