Dispersed camping areas near Kanab, Utah range from 4,500 to 6,000 feet in elevation, creating varied temperature conditions throughout the year. The region features predominantly sandy soil with patches of juniper and pinyon pine offering limited natural shade. Most sites require driving on unpaved roads that can become hazardous after rainfall when the fine red soil turns slick and muddy.
What to do
Explore sand dunes: Visit the areas near Meadows - Coral Pink Sand Dunes Dispersed where you can enjoy OHV riding or hiking. "Walked the 1/8 mile to the viewing area at sunset, great vantage point. Not sure if it was an international dark spot but certainly dark enough, saw a comet with no assistance!" according to a camper.
Visit slot canyons: Camp at Mt Carmel Old 89 Dispersed Camping for easy access to nearby slot canyons. "Just minutes from Belly of the Dragon and 10 minutes from parking lot turn off to Peekaboo Slot," reports one visitor who stayed there.
Stargazing: The dark skies in this region make for excellent astronomical viewing. The higher elevation and minimal light pollution create ideal conditions for stargazing, especially during new moon phases. Many campsites are positioned on ridges or hills that provide unobstructed views of the night sky.
What campers like
Cave-like alcoves: At Hog Canyon, visitors appreciate the unique geological features. "Absolutely awesome spot to camp!! Especially if you can get the spot that is tucked underneath/in an alcove... The view of the stars from under the alcove at night.. EPIC!" notes one camper.
Elevated views: Many rustic camping spots near Kanab offer panoramic vistas. "We found a wonderful spot on top of a hill. The road can be very rough in places but great views," explains a visitor at BLM Road #71 Gravel Pit Dispersed - BLM.
Wildlife encounters: Campers often report seeing local wildlife. At Meadows - Coral Pink Sand Dunes Dispersed, one camper noted, "You will hear the coyotes raising hell at night but that's part of the charm isn't it?" Some sites are known for having regular deer visitors, particularly at dawn and dusk.
What you should know
Sand conditions: Many dispersed camping areas near Kanab feature sandy soil that affects driving conditions. At Hancock Road Dispersed Camping, a visitor notes: "This is a great spot. Very sandy but up the road we saw a class A parked in one of the spots... We put it in 4wd but likely not necessary."
Limited facilities: Expect minimal to no amenities at these rustic camping sites. A camper at Hog Canyon reports: "Not far off the main road into Hog Canyon just north of town. Good clearance was helpful because they plow the sand sometimes and there's a lip to get into the site."
Dirt road access: Most remote camping spots require driving on unpaved roads. "The road up is rough and bumpy. We did like the previous review said and took the 2nd left. It snowed a few days before and left very large puddles which made us nervous to travel further," explains a visitor to BLM Road #71 Gravel Pit Dispersed.
Tips for camping with families
Find shade: When camping with children, look for sites with natural shade. "We are traveling in the summer during an intense heatwave, and this spot had EXCELLENT shade. If you pitch your tent right, you may be able to sleep in," reports a family at Old Highway 89 Dispersed BLM Site.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about local wildlife safety. "Watch your feet for the critters and there are snakes in the tall grass but if you use common sense, the campsite is amazing for families too," advises a camper at Meadows - Coral Pink Sand Dunes Dispersed.
Temperature planning: The high desert environment means significant temperature swings between day and night. Plan activities during cooler morning hours and bring extra layers for evenings when temperatures can drop by 30°F or more, even in summer months.
Tips from RVers
Ground assessment: Check ground firmness before parking an RV. "Arrived here on a Sunday evening in a 30' RV. No one is here. Road is quiet. Lots of open space but quite sandy. We likely would have been fine but decided to stay closer to the road where it's gravel instead of sand," shares an RVer at Meadows - Coral Pink Sand Dunes Dispersed.
Leveling preparation: Bring leveling blocks as most dispersed camping areas near Kanab have uneven terrain. Many sites feature natural slopes that require adjustment for comfortable overnight stays in larger vehicles.
Cell coverage planning: Signal strength varies greatly across rustic camping areas near Kanab. "Not many RVs came through. But definitely the big trailers with toys. Easy to stay over night. Signal was weak but we did have some," notes a camper who stayed at Hog Canyon OHV - Dispersed Camping for two weeks.
