Dispersed camping options near Kingston, Utah provide alternatives to established campgrounds in the Dixie National Forest. At 6,500-8,000 feet elevation, these areas typically open mid-May through October with some sites available year-round depending on snow conditions. The region features ponderosa pine forests interspersed with red rock formations and alpine meadows.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: Posey Lake Campground offers excellent trout fishing in an eight-acre lake surrounded by pines and aspens. According to Shannon C., "Excellent uncrowded trout lake. Eight acres among the pines. Good sized rainbows and brooks. Occasional arctic greylings... Perfect for kayak fishing amongst the mountain paradise."
Mountain biking on forest trails: The areas surrounding Tom's Best Spring Road Dixie National Forest provide extensive riding options. "There's plenty of dirt trails in the Dixie Forest," notes Adam B. The nearby Red Canyon area features a paved bike path that connects toward Bryce Canyon.
Wildlife viewing: The high-elevation forests host numerous wildlife species. At Tom's Best Spring Road, Adam B. reports, "Pronghorn deer come every day morning and afternoon." Pine Lake and surrounding areas are known for deer sightings at dawn and dusk.
What campers like
Seclusion and space between sites: Big John Flat receives high marks for its layout. Gary E. notes, "Very large open camping area with open meadows and large trees... A lot of room between campsites." Courtney S. adds, "If you want to camp alone, this is a great place. Lots of shade and places to explore."
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. At FR3623 Dispersed camping area, Michael D. reports, "The stars were gorgeous and plentiful and we witnessed a meteor shower in late May." Several campgrounds in the area sit above 8,000 feet, providing clear astronomical viewing on cloudless nights.
Proximity to attractions: FR3623 Dispersed camping provides free sites with good access to regional highlights. Savannah writes, "Excellent camping spots. Good road. Plenty of spaces for big rigs. Shade if you want it, open fields for solar if needed... 15 minutes from Bryce NP."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Higher elevation campgrounds close during winter months. At Posey Lake Campground, the facilities typically operate from late May through September. Shannon C. notes, "It closes for the winter by mid-Sept. You can camp there when it's closed (bathrooms open, water locked), but it's really spooky to be the only ones there."
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed sites vary significantly in quality. Jacob mentions about FR3623, "The road is right off the highway, and has lots of campsites. The road isn't too bad getting up." However, Michael D. cautions, "It got progressively bumpier the further we went."
Water availability: Many dispersed sites lack potable water. At established sites like Pine Lake, water spigots are available seasonally. Jen R. advises, "If you don't care about fresh water access or toilets, there's a lot of boondock sites right off the dirt road."
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities for children: Koosharem Reservoir offers family-friendly water access. Josh R. shares, "We camped in our 4Runner and parked just feet from the waters edge, it was gorgeous!" Brad B. adds, "This is a very easy place to throw a tent up or park an RV close to lake and good fishing."
Sites with amenities: Pine Lake Campground provides facilities helpful for family camping. Marcie R. describes, "Bathrooms were clean and water spigots throughout the campground. There are dumpsters at the very end of the road on the way out which is super nice and convenient."
Bear awareness: Food storage precautions are necessary. At Posey Lake Campground, Marisa P. mentions the campground provides "bear-proof food lockers." Matthew D. simply states about Barker Reservoir Area, "Be ware of bears. Use the food boxes."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility for larger vehicles: Losee Canyon offers options for various RV sizes. Dave B. notes, "Lots of sites, great views trails for hiking and horseback near by." Bryan I. adds, "Lots of sites, some with shade."
Solar considerations: For boondockers using solar power, positioning matters. At Tom's Best Spring Road, The Wandering Shores states, "Great for rigs of any size, with thousands of acres to choose from. Among the tall pines yet enough sunlight for solar panels."
Communication connectivity: Cell service varies by location. At Tom's Best Spring Road, Tom W. reports, "Four bars of AT&T 4G. Ten miles to Bryce Canyon visitor center." Similarly, at FR3623, Savannah confirms, "Verizon cell service was excellent."
