Rustic camping near Murray, Utah provides outdoor experiences in several less-developed settings around the Wasatch Range. Camping elevations typically range from 6,500 to 9,800 feet, creating temperature variations that can drop below 40°F at night even during summer months. Many dispersed sites in this area implement seasonal closures during winter and early spring due to snowpack and road conditions.
What to do
Early season hiking: Plan for snow. Trails in the Lone Peak Cirque Dispersed area require careful timing as one camper notes, "Be prepared, there is no easy way up lone peak to any suitable camping. It's a lot of elevation, with little shade until you get to the top. And no promise of water."
Fishing for trout: Bring proper gear. Several alpine lakes in the area stock trout, particularly at higher elevations. The Pittsburg Lake Dispersed site "has trout for fishing" according to a reviewer who adds that "the lake is approximately .33 miles around."
Explore historic structures: Check cabin conditions. Some camping areas feature remnants of Utah's mining history. A camper at Pittsburg Lake mentions "There is even an old homestead cabin to explore" while hiking around the small alpine lake.
Water activities: Consider inflatable craft. While most alpine lakes are small, they offer paddling opportunities. A camper reports successfully carrying "an inflatable paddle board in addition to my stuff for camping" to Pittsburg Lake, noting "it was worth carrying the paddle board up to the lake."
What campers like
Multiple difficulty options: The Twin Peaks Wilderness Area - Dispersed offers hikes for various skill levels. A camper shares that "If you want to hike then they are Broads Fork Twin Peaks, Sunrise Peak, and Dromedary Peak. All of which require no more than class 4 scrambling."
Wildlife sightings: The mountain areas host diverse wildlife. A reviewer advises to "Beware of moose as they are commonly spotted hanging out in the lakes near the meadows" in Twin Peaks Wilderness Area.
Alpine meadow settings: The Albion Basin - Dispersed campground "sits in a beautiful meadow at the top of one of the busiest canyons in the country." Another camper explains finding "a clearing away from the trail, nestled between boulders" with "flat soft ground, padded by pine needles."
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain air provides excellent night sky viewing. A camper at Pittsburg Lake reports "The stargazing was very Exquisite" while an Albion Basin camper suggests "If weather permits, leaving off the rain fly provides an exquisite view of the milky way as you drift off to sleep."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many roads to trailheads require appropriate vehicles. At Mineral Basin Dispersed, a camper explains "It is a long dirt road which is relatively maintained. There is a lot of side by side activity on these roads so some of the corners have been banked/rutted out but a non-lowered vehicle should be able to navigate the roads."
Seasonal road closures: Winter conditions restrict access. One reviewer reported "We couldn't access early June road still closed past the ski resort" at Mineral Basin.
Water availability varies: Bring adequate supplies. For Lone Peak Cirque, a camper cautions to "bring a lot of water (at least 3 L each) and a filter if you plan on staying overnight in the cirque. All water is runoff so also make sure there is still snow up there as that is your only water supply."
Weekend congestion: Popular sites fill quickly on weekends. A Mineral Basin camper notes it's "Not a terrible place for a quick get away" but warns of "Lots of traffic going up and down the mountain roads. Kind of loud."
Tips for camping with families
Consider day-use alternatives: For families with small children, Millcreek Canyon Dispersed Camping offers convenient options. A reviewer mentions "you really can't beat a camp spot that is only 20 minutes outside of town and that no one ever goes to."
Look for stream access: Children enjoy water play opportunities. A camper found that at Millcreek Canyon "there is a creek and it's cool in the canyon" which provides natural entertainment.
Plan for privacy needs: Some sites offer more seclusion than others. One camper reports finding spots "1/3 of a mile up the Mt. Aire trail there are a few premade dispersed camping spots. 1 is good for groups of 3 tents with a nice big fire pit and the others are smaller."
Adjust expectations for trail traffic: Popular areas see frequent visitors. A Millcreek Canyon camper notes that sites are "right off the trail but the trail is somewhat busy, you won't be completely alone until after 10pm or before 5 (trail runners are crazy)."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Most dispersed sites near Murray accommodate tents only. At Salamander Flat, a camper observed "The site is huge! Lots of space for people, cars, RVs and trailers. The road is paved until you turn in and then it's a regular dirt road."
Self-registration system: Plan for permit requirements. A Salamander Flat visitor explains "This is a national forest so there is technically a park permit required. However, we have an annual park pass and they accept that as well. It is an honor system kind of park permit."
Cell service variations: Connectivity differs by location. A camper at Salamander Flat reports "No service with AT&T" while another at Mineral Basin found "We have Verizon & TMobile & both had service. Good enough to stream music."
Weather preparation essential: Mountain temperatures fluctuate significantly. A Salamander Flat camper advises "It gets cooler at this elevation so bring a jacket even in the summer."
