Best Dispersed Camping near La Sal, UT

Dispersed camping areas near La Sal, Utah offer primitive, free camping options on public lands. Yellow Circle Road Dispersed Camping Area, Behind the Rocks Road Dispersed, and Yellow Circle Crossing provide basic sites with established fire rings but no amenities. These areas typically require campers to travel 0.6 miles from main roads past cattle guards to reach designated camping zones. According to reviews, Yellow Circle Road splits into three directions after entry, with the leftmost path offering some shade in a slight canyon area suitable for hammocks.

Vehicle access varies significantly between sites. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for most areas, though some sites closer to highways can accommodate standard vehicles with good tires. Several campers noted that roads become increasingly difficult with "slick rock ledgey bumpy" sections the farther you travel from main roads. Large RVs and travel trailers are not advised on many of these routes, particularly at Behind the Rocks and Yellow Circle Mountain Top Camp, where narrow sandy tracks and rough terrain create access challenges.

These sites operate under strict "Leave No Trace" principles. No drinking water, toilets, or trash facilities are available. Portable toilets are required at many locations due to special regulations. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with complete bans common during dry periods. Most sites permit fires in established rings when conditions allow. Cell service is generally available but varies by location. The 14-day camping limit applies to all dispersed sites in the area. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with reviewers mentioning significant wind, especially in exposed areas where "shrubbery provides a solid wind break" during evening hours.

Best Dispersed Sites Near La Sal, Utah (79)

    1. Yellow Circle Road Dispersed Camping Area

    30 Reviews
    La Sal, UT
    11 miles
    Website

    "There are no amenities (with the exception of occasional fire pits), but plenty of space for campers, large RVs, tents, etc. We were fine with a 2WD car."

    "This was our second night boondocking near Moab, and it was peaceful. We were the only ones out in this area camping with not a single car driving by while we were here."

    2. Behind the Rocks Road Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-2100

    "We got here early about 3 o’clock on a Saturday however, most of the sites were already taken so the site that we ended up staying at the driveway was a little washed out and parts of the actual camping"

    "All of the campgrounds on UT 128 were full during our late night drive way out that direction; easy enough to find Behind the Rocks, pulled in late, found an open spot, still some people up at early morning"

    3. Yellow Circle Crossing

    9 Reviews
    La Sal, UT
    12 miles

    "Some areas would require high clearance, but there a few different options and plenty of space to choose from depending how close you want to be to neighbors."

    "The location was great for a stop overnight after Arches NP. A few other campers, firepits and no trash at all."

    4. Another Behind the Rocks rd Dispersed Spot

    8 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-2100

    "The road in is bumpy and rocky, AWD or high clearance etc would be advised.

    Very nice area can be hot in the summer. There were minimal bugs when I stayed."

    "This was not very easy to access with my little van, but if you take it slow and stear carefully you should be able to make it back."

    5. Yellow Circle Road Mountain Top Camp

    7 Reviews
    La Sal, UT
    11 miles
    Website

    "Long dirt road with tons of large pull offs. Many group site areas near the bottom were full. I drove a bit further up and pulled into a small dirt cul de sac and set up my tent."

    "Surprisingly organized for free camping. Great cell service where I camped (AT&T). Would go back."

    6. Porcupine rim campground

    16 Reviews
    Castle Valley, UT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 636-3500

    "Dispersed camping with the best view I've ever seen. Even had clean vault toilet. There is a strict fire ban most of the time."

    "We went to Porcupine Rim Campground (Dispersed) on Oct. 15, 21 - Oct. 17, 21. The road to get yonder is uphill and bumpy, rocky."

    7. Looking Glass Road (Dispersed)

    5 Reviews
    La Sal, UT
    7 miles
    +1 (435) 259-2100

    "If you don't plan on spending some time exploring, climbing or doing some photography on or around Looking Glass Rock, then there's not much reason to take the dirt road out to this spot. "

    "The ones that seemed best to us in terms of access were off of 179. Coming in from the south about a mile in, there was a pull off to the right."

    8. La Sal Loop Rd Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Castle Valley, UT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-7155

    "I recently ventured to the La Sal Loop Road Dispersed Camping site and was truly rewarded for the initial challenge of the steep incline and sharp turn at the beginning of the road."

    "Felt very remote yet only a 20 minute drive to Arches NP. Amazing view of the La Sal mountains and awesome sunset."

    9. Balcony Arch

    5 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    16 miles

    "OK service, no amenities, pack in pack out."

    "I love this location! Great view and so close to Moab! Everything you need for great dispersed camping!"

    10. BLM Middle Fork Shafer Canyon Dispersed

    38 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    31 miles
    +1 (435) 259-2100

    "A car with some high clearance and 4WD is probably necessary for this."

    "Per Greg’s review, this road would be very difficult to navigate without a 4 wheel drive with adequate ground clearance. My Subaru Outback managed nicely with X mode."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 79 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near La Sal, UT

391 Reviews of 79 La Sal Campgrounds



Guide to La Sal

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near La Sal, Utah, where stunning landscapes and serene environments await outdoor enthusiasts. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to escape into nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near La Sal, Utah

Scenic views for dispersed campers

  • The Balcony Arch area offers breathtaking views and is just a short drive from Moab, making it a perfect spot for those who want to enjoy both nature and convenience.
  • For panoramic vistas, consider camping at La Sal Loop Rd Dispersed, where you can soak in the stunning landscapes of the La Sal Mountains.
  • If you’re looking for a more secluded experience, Indian Creek Recreation Area provides beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for stargazing.

Activities while free camping near La Sal

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the nearby trails when you stay at Hamburger Rock Dispersed Camping, which is conveniently located near the entrance to Canyonlands National Park.
  • For those interested in rock climbing, Looking Glass Road (Dispersed) is a great base, with access to various climbing routes in the surrounding area.
  • If you’re into off-roading, the rugged terrain around Tracking Station Road offers plenty of opportunities for adventure while enjoying the stunning desert scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near La Sal, UT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near La Sal, UT is Yellow Circle Road Dispersed Camping Area with a 4.4-star rating from 30 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near La Sal, UT?

TheDyrt.com has all 79 dispersed camping locations near La Sal, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.