Dispersed camping options near Ivins, Utah provide free alternatives on public land within 30 miles of town. Most sites sit between 3,000-4,000 feet elevation with rocky terrain that can become challenging after rain. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F in these open desert locations, while winter nights can drop below freezing.
What to do
Explore petroglyphs nearby: At Mount Trumbull Loop Dispersed camping, you can access local rock art sites. "Just a couple miles from the petroglyphs," notes one camper who found this area convenient before heading to the Grand Canyon.
Access OHV trails: Sand Hollow OHV Camp provides direct access to popular off-road vehicle areas. "Lots of room for camping great access to ohv trails," says one reviewer who appreciated the convenient trail connections.
Take scenic drives: The roads through camping areas often showcase desert landscapes. "Beyond gorgeous views with camping spots really spread out!" reports one visitor to Leeds Canyon. The red rock formations create a distinctive backdrop for your primitive camping experience.
What campers like
Seclusion options: North Creek Dispersed Camping offers quieter spots for those willing to explore. "If you have a vehicle with high clearance, take the creek crossing and you will have many more options!" advises one camper who found additional sites beyond the main camping area.
Night sky viewing: The lack of light pollution makes star observation excellent. One camper at Cedar Pockets Pass Road noted, "We came here during labour day weekend and had the place to ourselves. No trees, but the mountains provide nice shade in the evening and morning."
Natural water features: Some primitive sites near Ivins feature seasonal creeks. A camper at BLM Navajo Rd Dispersed found "Gorgeous views and we saw no other people but lots of trash/broken glass/shotgun shells. Had to keep our dog on a short leash but worked well for a quick dinner and place to crash for a night."
What you should know
Permit requirements vary: Some areas designated as BLM are actually state trust land. A camper at Mount Trumbull Loop Dispersed warned: "STATE TRUST LAND, NOT BLM - PERMIT IS REQUIRED TO STAY HERE," after receiving a visit from rangers.
Weather impacts accessibility: Cedar Pockets Pass Road - Dispersed Camping can become impassable during wet conditions. "Only drawback is it's so far up that when it rains it may take a couple of days for the road to be passable," explains one reviewer who recommends having "plenty of clearance and plenty of time."
Time restrictions apply: Some areas limit stays. At Water Conservancy District Camping, "New for 2023 is a sign that notes one day limit to camping. So this area is ok as a last option but not much more. Couple sites have tables, and I saw a dumpster and one portapotty."
Phone service varies: Cell reception depends on exact location. One camper reported "I have neither the time nor the crayons to explain how easy it is to not litter" when describing Mount Trumbull Loop's reception quality alongside frustration with site conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Select quieter locations: For families, noise levels matter when primitive camping near Ivins. At Sand Hollow OHV Camp, a reviewer noted: "Would have been a cool spot but we had dirt bikes riding around at 2am. 2wd accessible, bunch of spots to choose from."
Stream access: Sites with water features provide natural entertainment. At Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed, campers found it was "easy to get into zion, a little hot during the night but easy to find a place with shade."
Watch for hazards: Keep children and pets away from broken glass and trash. A camper at BLM Navajo Rd reported: "Drive out a few miles past red cliffs reserve till you pass the 'your public lands sign' and find pull offs with fire rings."
Tips from RVers
Spot selection: Leeds Canyon Dispersed #1 works for smaller rigs but requires planning. "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," explains one RVer who recommends scouting first.
Route planning: Approach from the correct direction for larger rigs. A camper noted, "Site #1 has a back in angle that needs you to be heading back down the road..if a TT."
Generator rules: Most primitive camping areas have no restrictions, but noise consideration matters. At Sand Hollow OHV Camp, a camper reported: "We just spent 5 nights here. was great! We have a 30 ft toy hauler and had no problems getting in and out. There were much bigger rigs then ours."
