Dispersed camping opportunities near Jensen, Utah extend beyond the well-known areas surrounding Dinosaur National Monument. The terrain varies from desert scrubland at 4,700 feet elevation to higher woodland areas reaching 7,000 feet on Blue Mountain. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with occasional thunderstorms that can temporarily make clay roads impassable.
What to do
Mountain biking at McCoy Flats: About 6 miles southwest of Vernal, McCoy Flats offers 46 miles of trails across 15 different routes suitable for various skill levels. One visitor at McCoy Flats MTB Trailhead notes, "You stay here for the proximity to amazing mountain bike trails... You can set up camp close to a trail and not have to move your vehicle, which is nice."
Wildlife watching: The desert and riparian environments support diverse wildlife. At Dispersed Camping Near Dinosaur National Monument, one camper shared their experience: "I'm the only one here besides the wildlife! Got a spot under the tree with a canal making me sleep to the sound of following water amongst where Dino's used to roam."
Star gazing: With minimal light pollution in most primitive camping areas, night sky viewing is exceptional. A camper at McCoy Flats reported, "Extremely quiet with amazing sunsets. Full service on AT&T and Verizon. The town of Vernal is close by with a Walmart less than 10-15 minutes."
What campers like
Remote solitude: Many dispersed sites offer significant privacy and quiet. At North of Dinosaur CR16 - Dispersed Site, a camper mentioned, "Just randomly driving thru Colorado and run into Dinasaur and a peaceful off grid place to camp. No one around. No one else on the planet. Great place to stop."
Convenience to services: Despite the primitive camping experience, Jensen's proximity to Vernal means supplies are accessible. One camper at McCoy Flats East Dispersed Camp noted, "Only few miles from main hwy on an old paved pothole filled road. And then only 3 miles back into Vernal and a Walmart on this end of town, so logistics are very good."
Scenic diversity: The region offers varied landscapes from river valleys to mountain views. A visitor camping outside Vernal commented, "Camped across the road from established free camping. Our site was private and no ATVs so it's pretty quiet too. Some road noise, but it drops off around 11 pm."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. For BLM 17B Road Dispersed Overlander, a camper advised: "The dirt road is a sandy entrenched two track with a high center so high clearance is advised. Spots are few, small and are suited to truck camping, tent camping. No RVs or TTs would be able to access these sites safely."
Weather impacts: Weather conditions significantly affect primitive camping near Jensen. Rain turns dirt roads to mud, making them impassable. One reviewer noted, "There is a sign at the beginning of the dirt road prohibiting trailers. I assume because if it rains the mud roads become unusable."
Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites lack basic facilities. While some areas like McCoy Flats have vault toilets, most require complete self-sufficiency. A camper reported, "No amenities at all. No trees. No fire pits. Just a better than Walmart place to sleep for a night or two."
Tips for camping with families
Proximity to facilities: For family camping near Jensen, consider sites with basic amenities. A visitor at Red Wash Rd Dispersed noted, "Beautiful spot by the river. Easy road access any car could do it... Good verizon cell signal, good river access and some shade."
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about desert wildlife safety. One camper at McCoy Flats mentioned, "The area is wide open but is susceptible to wind, which makes this a great area for vans, RVs or trailers. But if there is no wind, tents are awesome. You are also in the high desert plain, so watch for snakes."
Vehicle protection: Small animals may seek shelter under vehicles. A reviewer shared, "During my last night, I did have some rodents try to get underneath of my hood so if you're going to be stationary for multiple nights, be aware."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Most primitive camping areas near Jensen have limitations for large RVs. At McCoy Flats East Dispersed Camp, a camper observed, "This camping area is at the third new vault toilet. Lots of room for large TTs. No trash dumpsters and no water, but cell signal is excellent 5g five bars."
Solar power potential: The open terrain provides excellent solar charging opportunities. One reviewer mentioned, "Amazing spot to relax and take in the views of the mountains and valleys in the distance."
Water management: No freshwater sources exist at most sites, requiring careful planning. A camper advised, "Note there is an extensive network of nonmotorized Mtb singletrack trails in this area, and there does not seem to be any restrictions on e-mtb bikes. Could be hot and windy as no trees or shade here!"
