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BLM land around Kanab offers some of the most accessible free dispersed camping in southern Utah, with Highway 89 giving access to multiple corridors heading east toward the Arizona border and west toward the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument boundary. No reservations, no fees, no services at any dispersed site. Kanab-area tent sites cover the developed campgrounds in the area for those who want designated spots and vault toilets. Kanab's BLM field office district is one of the more actively managed, and rangers patrol popular dispersed zones, particularly near the Wave and White Pocket access roads.
No water, no restrooms, no trash service. Pack in a full water supply and pack out all waste. The 14-day stay limit applies across all BLM land in this district. Fire restrictions go into effect most summers and are taken seriously across the Grand Staircase area. Check with the Kanab BLM field office before arrival and again the day you head out. Some roads into dispersed sites require high clearance and become impassable after rain. Springdale's dispersed options sit about 40 miles west and give access to BLM land in the Zion corridor if Kanab-area dispersed campsites are packed.
Summer heat makes lower-elevation sites in this zone uncomfortable from June through August. Spring and fall are the most practical windows.
"We stayed a few miles up into the public land. There’s a lot of off-road trails & it’s muddy, tons of fun wheeling! Found a spot on the top of a hill that was flat enough for us to set up camp."
"Unfortunately the dirt road is a pretty heavily used off-road trail so there were several groups that went by while we were there. Nothing annoying but they will be coming by."
"The road is rough I would recommend a high clearance vehicle to be able to drive farther. We don't have that so we were limited on how far we were willing to drive down the rough dirt road."
"Take the exit from 89 and cross the remnants of the old 89 road. You will find several spots with previously used fire rings."
"We felt super safe here too."
"This area is up BLM Road #71 and was the old hwy. The actual main camping area is an old gravel pit area but views are great, solar is plentiful."
"This site was close to the road, but in our quieter season, it wasn't too loud. You can hear the main road noise in the distance, but not too bad. There was lots of space at this site."
"No fee and 14 day limit. Great site but be very careful with the very loose sand at these sites. Approximately 11 miles from the state park."
"At the highway. Super dusty if the wind blows. This is a generally flat red dirt parking lot sometimes used for staging Off-roaders to this OHV Hog Canyon."
"Absolutely felt safe here. Because of the gas price hike we opt to boondock and I have to say - we loved it. Lots to do in the area for sure."
"Great place to camp unlimited trails for you to explore nice big open flat area we are 72’ coach and trailer the pink coral sand dunes are beautiful and close to all the parks. We will be back"
"Bought water and firewood from hosts. Onsite rental of ATVs and such for tours, mountainous sands at arms reach. Walked the 1/8 mile to the viewing area at sunset, great vantage point."
"We loved this free camping area! There aren't tons of spots(most of it is an open area), but we never had an issue getting one, even during spring break. "
"The section of the dispersed camping on the old highway road I chose was on a hilltop, so even though there wasn't much shade, the breezes were great and the views were even better."
"Horse camp near belly of the dragon” connects with “Twin hollows canyon” which is also on BLM (it doesn’t show as “free camping” on this site for some reason)."
"We camped right next to the creek which is beautiful. Dead bird in the creek though and a spine of another animal. Lots of areas to camp for tents, car camping and rv/travel trailers."
"There were 2 other tent camp setups and several spots for more."
"Got in around 9:40pm and there were just a few cars parked. Easy to navigate in our van. My phone camera does not do justice to the stars in the sky and then you wake up to this beautiful scenery."
"I loved this primitive camp site!! No internet, beautiful landscape, some trails to explore, fire rings, and plenty of space!!"
TravelerGreat camping spot and so easy to get to. Nice dirt road. Don’t pay attention to the 4WD warning sign. You can get to many spots right off the road without it. We went maybe 1/4 mile off the highway and found a wide open field. Camper vans and RVs and 2 WD would be able to camp this
TravelerAs a former GCNP employee, I wanted to add a few tips for dispersed camping at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. There is no dispersed camping inside the park but the park is bordered by the Kaibab National Forest and you can dispersed camp on several of the surrounding forest service roads between the park and the Jacob Lake area.
The most popular roads for dispersed camping are FS633 on the East side of 67 north of DeMotte Campground and a cluster of FS roads off FS22 on the west side of 67 south of DeMotte Campground.
As of Summer 2022, dispersed camping was also allowed along FS610, 611, and 219 which are closer to the National Park. This is where the park rangers and staff at the Visitor Center would direct campers when the campgrounds were full. However, these roads are not designated as dispersed camping areas on the new MVUM (motor vehicle use map) that was printed Feb 2023, so you may want to call ahead or stop by the USFS office and doublecheck before dispersed camping there as illegal camping is subject to a $5000 fine and/or up to 18 months in jail.
If it is still allowed, some of the sites on FS611 are right on the rim overlooking the Saddleback Mountain Wilderness. If you head south on FS610 (towards the park boundary) there are only a couple of dispersed sites which could accomodate small to mid-sized travel trailers/RVs. I would not advise going down this road with a Class A unless you scout ahead first as there are limited places to turn around.
If you continue down FS610 south, you will have the national forest on your left and the National Park on your right. The road starts to narrow here and you will eventually come to Saddle Mountain which is a popular spot for tents, truck campers, and small travel trailers (GoPro sized or smaller) and also serves as a parking area for the Nankoweap Trailhead.
If you have a 4x4 or high clearance vehicle, you can continue past the Saddle Mountain area on 610 or 219 which both dead end at a bluff, but these roads are very narrow with large ruts and jutting rocks at the end. We parked our vehicle near the bottom of the incline and walked up to the bluff where there is nice flat open area with a view of the Saddleback Mountain Wilderness. There are also a few smaller dispersed camping areas along the road leading up to the bluff that would be perfect for tent camping.
If you don't mind a longer drive to the park, there are a lot more dispersed camping otpions for larger rigs around Jacob Lake. Our favorite spot is off FS257 on the north side of 89A. We boondocked here for 10 days in May before the park opened. There are only a handful of sites here but if you are lucky enough to get one, they are great!
Just be aware that as of Summer 2022, much of the dispersed area on the south side of 89A around Jacob Lake was closed due to damage from a recent forest fire. Again, it's always a good idea to call or stop in the USFS to get the most up to date information. Their office is located at the intersection of 67 and 89A at Jacob lake. The number is (928) 643-7298. They're super helpful!
Here is a link to the Motor Vehicle Use Map for the area.
LegendLeeds Canyon Dispersed camp sites are on the Dixie NF. Lower dispersed sites 1-6 are easiest to get into with a TT. Camp in designated spots, camping free for 16 days. No water, no trash, no toilets. Sites are along a well maintained FS gravel road so dust may be a concern. Only a few miles outside of Leeds and Interstate 15.
Leeds Canyon #2 is behind #1 a hundred yards but requires high clearance and 4wd to access....no TT or RVs. Nice big open area with views for the overlander types
TravelerWe loved this free camping area!
There aren't tons of spots(most of it is an open area), but we never had an issue getting one, even during spring break.
It's close to Kanab and the east entrance of Zion.
Please Leave No Trace! Take care of this place so it can be enjoyed by many for as long as possible!
GuideOne of the most beautiful disbursed campgrounds we've seen, plenty of space, quiet, privacy and with stunning 360 views. Highly recommend this place. We felt super safe here too.
HOWEVER, the main access road (second dirt road on the left off the broken paved road) to most of the places for camping is currently, May 8, 2023, under a few feet of water and impassable except for serious 4-wheelers.
There are a limited number of spaces right off the broken paved road though. We lucked out and snagged a place right off the broken paved road at the second dirt road on the left, further down not passable.
The broken paved road (BLM Road 71) is on the left about 5 miles from Kanab right off highway 9 going towards Zion NP. It’s easy to miss so keep an eye out as it’s unmarked.
The broken paved road is easily accessible by pretty much all vehicles. We had no problem with our 27 foot Class A and our friend’s 24 foot Class C. Just go slow and you won’t have a problem.
Beautiful, beautiful place!
TravelerWhen our original dispersed camping spot didn’t work out we drove down the road and found this little gem, right outside the entrance to Bruce Canyon National Park. There are a bunch of designated USFS camping spots. They’re level-ish, fire rings, and pretty easy to get to. We have a 1992 (renovated!) motorhome and we got to spot 17 no problem. We could have gone to 17-19, but then the road got to rough for our old girl. Lots of quads and sideXsides riding on the dirt road, kicking up dust till about 8:30PM but was not a big deal. Solid free camping right near the park!
RangerDave’s Hollow Designated Area dispersed camping is fantastic! We stayed at site #2, which has a wide-open space and could easily be shared with another group. Since it was late December, there were only two other campers—one at site #1 and one at site #3—so it felt quiet and uncrowded.
We camped in a Sprinter van. The dirt road leading to the sites was a bit bumpy, so high-clearance vehicles are recommended. There was snow on the ground, and nighttime temperatures dropped to around 14°F, but our van’s propane heater kept us comfortable.
I highly recommend this camping area. It’s only about 5 minutes from the Bryce Canyon National Park entrance and visitor center, making it a convenient and peaceful place to stay near the park.
GuideOctober 15, 2020
We wanted to be close to Bryce Canyon but not in all of the hub and chaos of people. This location is about a 10 minute drive away from Bryce. This is the perfect location to get away from it all. When you first arrive, you will see plenty of spots for RV's and travel trailers. We traveled 1.8 miles and took a left turn on a small dirt road and found 5 or 6 campsites that were level and far away from each other. (We were the only one down this road).
The site was level with a lot of space to spread out. There was a firepit but no other facilities, so come prepared with everything you need. Due to fire restrictions, we didn't have a fire, and enjoyed seeing the Milky Way and shooting stars! There is a pit toilet across the highway before you turn into the BLM land.
We thought we would only stay for one night, but ended up there 2 nights since it was so beautiful!
GuideWe decided to disperse camp for the weekend of Halloween. Weather was beautiful, but cold during the evening due to the moisture in the air. The location is literally a few minutes off the 89A, not too hard to miss the service road turn off. We checked out the other sites about a mile in and everything was a little wet/muddy, so we decided to set camp at this location. According to Kaibab NF MVUM, dispersed camping is allowed along open FS roads (https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/kaibab/maps-pubs/?cid=fseprd490027)..)
Space is very open with trees surrounding the area. This spot has a trail nearby, so we had seen a few hikers throughout the weekend. Previous campers created a firepit, but make sure to check with the North Kaibab rangers on fire restrictions (https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/kaibab/alerts-notices)..). Surprisingly decent cell service(Tmobile/AT&T).
About an hour and half to Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. Along our trip there, we also went to Vermillion Cliffs/Marble Canyon. Very beautiful, must see places.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the BLM regulations for dispersed camping around Kanab?
BLM dispersed camping around Kanab follows standard regulations: camping is limited to 14-16 days within a 30-day period. At BLM Road #71 Gravel Pit Dispersed, campers must stay in previously used sites to minimize environmental impact. Leave No Trace principles apply to all sites—pack out all trash, properly dispose of human waste, and minimize damage to vegetation. Most areas restrict camping to within 150 feet of designated roads. Leeds Canyon Dispersed #2 specifies camping only in designated spots for up to 16 days. Campfires may be restricted seasonally, especially during fire danger periods. Always check current fire restrictions before visiting and use established fire rings where available.
Where are the best free dispersed camping spots near Kanab, Utah?
Several excellent free dispersed camping options exist near Kanab. Old Highway 89 Dispersed BLM Site offers convenient camping close to both Kanab and Zion's east entrance. Though it's mostly an open area with limited defined spots, it rarely fills up, even during busy seasons. Another popular choice is Kitchen Corral Wash, which features easy access via a navigable dirt road despite 4WD warning signs. Many sites are available right off the main road, making it accessible for camper vans, RVs, and 2WD vehicles. Other options include Hancock Road 64L for big rig-friendly sites, Mt Carmel Old 89 for proximity to Mount Carmel, and Kanab Creek for more secluded experiences.
What amenities and facilities are available at dispersed camping sites near Kanab?
Dispersed camping sites near Kanab are primitive with minimal to no amenities. At Forest Service #247 Road Dispersed Camping, there are no facilities—no water sources, trash collection, or toilets. Similarly, Dave's Hollow Designated Dispersed Camping offers only basic designated spots with fire rings and relatively level surfaces. Campers must pack in all necessary water and pack out all waste. Most sites feature informal fire rings, though fire restrictions may apply seasonally. Cell service varies significantly by location, with some areas having reasonable coverage while others are completely off-grid. For campers requiring facilities, developed campgrounds in nearby national forests or the Kanab area offer alternatives with restrooms, water, and sometimes showers.
What is the best time of year for dispersed camping in Kanab, Utah?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant conditions for dispersed camping around Kanab, with moderate temperatures and manageable crowds. At Tom Best Spring Road FR117, mid-October provides perfect weather for exploring nearby attractions like Bryce Canyon without the summer crowds. Summer (June-August) brings intense heat, often exceeding 100°F, making camping challenging without shade. Winter camping at Forest Road 611 can be beautiful but requires preparation for freezing temperatures, especially at higher elevations. During peak seasons (spring break, summer holidays), some popular areas fill quickly, but dispersed options typically remain available even when developed campgrounds are full.
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