Tent camping near Hildale, Utah offers both BLM dispersed sites and established camping options across elevations ranging from 3,000-7,000 feet. The region sits at the western edge of the Colorado Plateau with distinctive red sandstone formations and juniper woodlands. Summer monsoon season (July-September) can bring sudden afternoon thunderstorms that create flash flood conditions in narrow canyons and washes.
What to do
Canyoneering access: Lambs Knoll Climbing Site Camping serves as an excellent basecamp for rock climbing and canyoneering adventures. "This site is very popular for local guide companies, please park respectfully in a single spot. Expect the area to be very busy (crowded) during the day, the lot fills up entirely most days," notes one camper.
Stargazing opportunities: The dark skies near Hildale provide exceptional stargazing. At Zion Glamping Adventures, visitors report, "The stars at night at this place were simply unspeakably amazing. That alone made it worth the drive." Another camper confirms, "The view here at night is AMAZING. There's barely any light pollution here so it was a stargazers dream."
Creek exploration: Many camping areas feature access to small waterways. At Leeds Canyon Dispersed #1, a camper shared it was "only a 1-2 block walk to Leeds Creek to sit on a rock and soak feet in creek." The site also offers "a sweet little trail leading to a historical kiln" about a quarter mile from the campsite.
What campers like
Relative seclusion: Kolob Terrace Road dispersed camping provides a good balance of accessibility and privacy. A recent visitor noted, "This is a great spot before or after visiting Zion NP, paved road until the last few feet, easy access without 4×4, and beautiful view. Very quiet. Just two other campers on the site."
Water features: The sound of running water enhances many camping spots. One camper at Kolob Road BLM Dispersed shared, "Nearby river gives you that ambient sound to drown out the world. About 6 spots, well separated by trees and distance." Another mentioned, "The little river by the site is very pretty."
Scenic surroundings: The area's geological formations create memorable landscapes. At Leeds Canyon Dispersed #1, visitors enjoy "beyond gorgeous views with camping spots really spread out!" While another camper appreciated the "red cliffs and red sand all around" despite noting that it can "get crowded" during peak seasons.
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most dispersed camping areas have minimal or no facilities. A camper at Leeds Canyon Dispersed #1 summarized: "No water, no trash, no toilets. Sites are along a well maintained FS gravel road so dust may be a concern."
Cell service variability: Connectivity fluctuates significantly between sites. At Kolob Road BLM Dispersed, "Cell service is basically non-existent, but sometimes you might catch a bar." Leeds Canyon offers better connectivity with one camper reporting, "Cell service is ok, ATT seems to be better than the Verizon phone, but there is a signal."
Site availability challenges: Finding an open spot can be difficult during busy periods. At Kolob Terrace Road, one camper reported, "Spring Break week every site was packed. We had to wait for someone to vacate before finding something that would work."
Wind concerns: The area can experience strong winds that affect tent camping. A visitor to Leeds Canyon Dispersed noted, "It was very windy at night (but not during the day) when I went... it was windy enough that I was getting legitimately worried about the well-being of my tent."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible glamping option: For families seeking more comfort, Zion View Camping offers tent and glamping accommodations with amenities like drinking water, electric hookups, showers, and toilets.
Creek activities: Children often enjoy the small waterways near campsites. At Kolob Road BLM Dispersed, families can set up "next to the creek to spend the day in," though one camper warned of "a bit of Nats due to the creek."
Consider noise factors: Some sites experience more traffic or activity than others. At Lambs Knoll, "This campsite was very quiet except on nights when a stargazing guide group came to meet up there around 9/9:30 PM. They weren't super loud and only met there and then left shortly after."
Prepare for temperature swings: Pack appropriate clothing for significant day-to-night temperature changes. The area's desert climate means camping requires preparation for both hot days and cool nights.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many dispersed sites have challenging access for larger vehicles. At Kolob Road BLM Dispersed, campers "strongly do NOT recommend TTs or any RV at this BLM spot due to steep downhill rd and no turnarounds! Tent or van nomads only due to no tt turnarounds!"
Designated spots only: Leeds Canyon has specific limitations: "Lower dispersed sites 1-6 are easiest to get into with a TT. Camp in designated spots." Another RVer advised, "If looking to dry camp I would look elsewhere or drop trailer first and go in with truck to see if anything is available."
Research turning options: RV owners should investigate turnaround capabilities before committing to forest roads. One camper at Leeds Canyon "wondered how we were going to turn around" with their 26-foot trailer and had to speak with a BLM representative about gate status and turnaround options.
