Dispersed camping near Kenilworth, Utah offers extensive options on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and National Forest lands. Summer temperatures typically range from 85-95°F during day and 55-65°F at night, while spring and fall bring milder conditions with significant temperature drops after sunset. Most sites sit at elevations between 5,500-7,500 feet, creating varied camping experiences depending on location and season.
What to do
Mountain biking on nearby trails: Several areas provide direct access to desert riding routes. At Wedge Overlook, campers appreciate the variety of technical options. "Around dusk the wind picked up and almost destroyed our camp and sent it into the canyon. Tie everything down or be in camp for the show!" warns Dave L., highlighting the need for securing gear.
Stargazing away from light pollution: The remote locations create ideal conditions for night sky viewing. "We got to camp next to a stream. Was just passing through so this was a great spot for the night," notes Josh R. about his stay at Skyline Drive, where minimal light pollution creates prime stargazing conditions.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning or evening hours offer the best opportunities to spot desert wildlife. "Deep in The San Rafael Swell lies The Wedge Overlook campground. The campground lies right on the rim of The Little Grand Canyon. Beautiful views, hiking and biking trails," explains Andy O., describing the natural habitat that attracts various species.
What campers like
Natural windbreaks from canyon formations: The terrain provides protection from common desert gusts. At CO2 Road Dispersed Campsite, Shane W. notes, "There are plenty of trees around for firewood, the top 2 to 4 inches of topsoil are soft, which is nice for leveling out your camping in. There's some ready stuff on the bottom but nothing I had to put, my rig into four-wheel-drive for."
Easy highway access for overnight stops: Many sites serve as convenient resting points for travelers. "Convenient overnight spot — Close to town and a gas station, making it a great choice for a quick stop. You can hear some road noise, but it's not too disruptive," explains ez from Canyon Rd Dispersed.
Seasonal temperature variations: Camper experiences differ dramatically by month. "I came here in March and caught a streak of nice weather (60-70 degrees for the high, 30s for the low). I decided to come back and bring the family for my birthday," shares Jason about Little Grand Canyon Dispersed Camping, noting the ideal spring conditions.
What you should know
Road conditions require planning: Access roads deteriorate quickly after rain. "Avoid this spot if it is raining at all as it will give your tires a nice coat of slick mud; even an off road tire can get stuck with this kind of sticky mud!!" warns Chase R. about CO2 Road.
Limited shade coverage: Most dispersed sites lack natural protection from sun. "Not much shade but there were 2 or 3 areas with a few trees. This area has a couple fire rings to utilize. Sheep Creek can be a bit windy due to how open it is," explains GoWhereYouAreDraw N. about Sheep Creek.
Seasonal crowds: Weekend traffic increases significantly during spring and fall. "Quiet and peaceful during the week, however it fills up quickly on the weekends," notes Honeymooners O., providing insight into timing your visit for more solitude.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment options: The open terrain requires planned activities. At Horse Canyon Road - Dispersed Open Area, Jayme H. recommends: "Gorgeous views. Very quiet. Lots of fire rings. Take the road past the rest stop and there are plenty of secluded spots off the road," offering families space to spread out and play.
Plan for temperature swings: Desert conditions mean significant day-to-night changes. "The night I camped 9/20/25 there were about a dozen vehicles," reports Robert C. about his Sheep Creek stay, where overnight temperatures dropped nearly 30 degrees from daytime highs.
Scout your site before setting up: Rocky terrain and exposure require careful placement. "This spot was a little hard to locate because it's on trust land and the spots look like junk piles," warns Corda B., highlighting the importance of evaluating sites thoroughly before committing.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Most dispersed sites require adjustment work. "This is a great spot for it being free but they don't have any amenities," notes Becky J. about Sheep Creek, where the uneven ground requires leveling blocks.
Access road preparation: Check recent conditions before attempting remote sites. "Road is in ok shape. Only few places small vehicle can park. Not for RV's or larger trucks really. This site and one right next to it are the same. I could barely turn RV around to go out," warns Rick W. about his experience.
Water conservation strategies: With no hookups available, plan accordingly. "We drove our towed vehicle further down the road and discovered that you enter the Manti-Lasal National Forest in about a mile," explains Danny H. from Skyline Drive, noting the distance to additional resources when supplies run low.
