Dispersed camping areas surrounding La Sal, Utah sit at elevations between 4,000-7,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between seasons and day-to-night transitions. Free camping sites in this region consist primarily of undesignated spots on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land with minimal development. Most locations require visitors to travel several miles on unpaved roads to reach camping areas, where established fire rings mark previous use.
What to do
Mountain biking access points: Free camping at Yellow Circle Road Dispersed Camping Area positions visitors near popular biking routes. "There are amazing views of the mountains. There are no amenities, but Moab is nearby and has places to fill water, dump station, etc," notes Alex P. The elevated terrain provides both challenging descents and cross-country routes.
Rock climbing opportunities: The Looking Glass Road Dispersed area offers access to climbing areas. According to Alan B., the "East Rib Route on Looking Glass Rock is an amazingly easy beginner climb (albeit slightly run out) that has a spectacular ~120' completely free hanging rappel through the window at the top of the route." Many routes require minimal technical skill while offering unique features.
Canyon rim hiking: Multiple unmarked trails lead from camping areas to canyon overlooks. "We drove right up next to the canyon edge with Jeep Gladiator 4x4 & a Mammoth Overland ELE 4x4 trailer. Three days but wish we could stay longer," reports Sam M. from BLM Middle Fork Shafer Canyon. These routes often lack formal trail markers but follow established paths.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The elevation gain at sites like La Sal Loop Rd Dispersed provides relief from summer heat. "Nice spot pretty high in the mountain. About a 30 min drive to Moab," explains Jahro M. Many campers note temperature differences of 10-15 degrees cooler than valley locations during summer months.
Cell service reliability: Unlike many remote dispersed camping areas, most sites maintain workable connectivity. A camper at Yellow Circle Road Mountain Top Camp noted, "Good cell service where I camped (AT&T)." Another camper reported, "Verizon had 2-3 bars, though, so that was nice at least," making these sites suitable for remote workers.
Availability during peak seasons: When developed campgrounds fill, these areas often have spaces. "We arrived to this area quite at night. There was TONS of space for everyone to comfortably fit. We passed probably 20-30 vehicles camped throughout before we found space for ourselves," reports Ryan L. This accessibility makes the region a reliable backup option during busy tourist periods.
What you should know
Fire restriction variations: Rules about fires change frequently based on conditions. "Fires are well maintained in established rings when conditions allow," reports a camper, but complete bans become common during dry months, typically May through September. Visitors should check current restrictions with the Moab BLM office before planning campfires.
Road degradation issues: Access roads deteriorate rapidly after rainfall. "Unless you've ample off roading experience, outfitted your rig with an assortment of lights, and a decent lift kit, please don't attempt to climb the mountain beyond a certain point at night. The trail has portions where the road has given out and requires extreme caution as to not tumble down the mountain," warns Alex V.
Wildlife encounters: Free range cattle frequent many camping areas. According to Scott W. at Looking Glass Road Dispersed, "Free range cattle have fences up and gates closed." Other campers report coyote activity: "My girlfriend and I woke up to a pack of coyotes howling in the distance at night so use caution if you are tent camping."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection priorities: Choose lower elevation spots for easier access with children. "Going further on 179 there was a bare rock spot on the left. Fine for sleeping, and others did end up joining us. Nice to walk around, pretty quiet at night," notes Danielle about Looking Glass Road.
Canyon safety precautions: Sites near drop-offs require extra vigilance. A camper at BLM Middle Fork Shafer Canyon Dispersed warns, "You can walk right to the edge and it's a steep drop so probably not a great place for little kids or pets."
Terrain challenges for tents: Rocky surfaces make traditional tent staking difficult. "Super rocky so you'll have to use rocks to weigh down your tent corners since you can't stake them down," advises Brittany P. Bringing extra cord and weights for securing tents becomes essential at most sites.
Tips from RVers
Specific site recommendations: RVers report success at designated pull-offs. "The lower camping area is flat and will accommodate large tow RVs," notes Gary S. about Yellow Circle Road Mountain Top Camp. However, many add cautions about proceeding beyond initial camping zones.
Leveling challenges: Uneven terrain requires extra leveling blocks. "I was able to pull my Jayco Popup with the Baja Offroad package to a site right up on the rim with my Bronco. Couple spots you've just got to pick a decent line and you'll be good," reports Ben, highlighting the importance of carrying substantial leveling equipment.
Turning radius limitations: Narrow roads with limited turnaround points present challenges for larger rigs. "We took our travel trailer (22' total) up, just have to be careful," explains Nathan L., suggesting smaller trailers under 25 feet fare better than full-size RVs at most sites.
