Dispersed camping near Manila, Utah offers primitive sites in the high desert environment of northeastern Utah, situated around 6,300 feet elevation. The area experiences extreme seasonal variations with summer temperatures reaching the 90s and winter bringing heavy snowfall. Rustic camping options range from waterfront locations with lake access to forested sites in Ashley National Forest, most requiring self-sufficiency with minimal amenities.
What to do
Water activities on Flaming Gorge Reservoir: Several dispersed sites at Spring Creek Road Dispersed - Flaming Gorge provide direct water access. "Nice area where you can get a spot right on the water. It's a little busy with others but sites are private enough. Few bugs and not as windy as some other places nearby. You'll also have boats pulling water skiers/boarders by and the occasional fishers or kayakers floating by," notes Greg C.
Wildlife viewing: The peninsula areas near Buckboard Wash - Dispersed offer excellent wildlife spotting. "We had the place to ourselves on a Monday in early May. We chose the bluff near the northern of two out toilets. We had a 270° view of the lake, an awesome sunset and an equally spectacular sunrise," reports Lee F.
Mountain biking on forest roads: Forest Service roads near Meadow Park Dispersed Camping provide good cycling terrain. "Lovely camp spots for my teardrop trailer in deciduous forest. Nice mixed terrain gravel bike ride on the old road," writes claudia C.
What campers like
Lake view camping: Many campers prefer the elevated sites at Flaming Gorge NRA Dispersed for panoramic vistas. "There are a TON of dispersed camping spots here. It's like a labyrinth of roads and spots. We drove around a bit to find one but ended up on the cliff overlooking the lake," shares Lauren S.
Forest shade: Unlike exposed lakeside sites, Forest Road 13 offers tree cover. "My site was very large, right where the fire road (more a trail really) seemed to split in two directions. Tons of flat ground for tents, a big healthy stone firepit, and plenty of wood around to harvest," explains Quinn Z.
Secluded spots: Campers appreciate finding private areas away from crowds. "This dispersed campground is one to check out. It has very secluded spots tucked in the trees. You don't hear the highway traffic even at closer spots to the road. There are endless options for sites," notes Tyrinn B. about Meadow Park.
What you should know
Access road conditions: Many roads to primitive camping areas require careful driving. "The road is bumpy but it's nothing a regular passenger car shouldn't be able to handle. The camp sites are spacious and each one is far enough from each other that peace and quietness was never an issue," writes kiloalpha 2 about Utah Forest Road 13 Dispersed Camping.
Weather considerations: Wind conditions vary by location and can be severe. "We stayed at 40°59'20.4"N 109°32'13.7"W, not all the way out. Jug Hollow Road should be renamed: Rough Hollow Road! Had I known how bad it would get, I would not have made the journey with my 40' Toy Hauler," warns Ronald C. about Green River Peninsula.
Wildlife and insects: Expect to encounter various wildlife and insects. "Don't listen to the reviews about 'non biting mosquitos' they are midges! Mosquito's harmless doppelgangers, but there are A LOT of them," explains Lani R. at Spring Creek Road.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for safety: Families should consider campsite location carefully. "Keep following the dirt road to get to a few spots by the water! I took my Kia Soul down the road and a Honda civic was parked there as well. Only a few spots but you can jump right in the water," advises taryn about Spring Creek Road.
Activities for children: Several areas offer safe swimming options. "We spent both days there in the water. This rec area is amazing! Almost guaranteed to find plenty of space. Theres portapots by the entrance which depending on where you set up could mean a 10-15 drive so plan on hitting the bushes," notes Dennis G.
Avoiding crowds: For quieter family experiences, consider timing. "We found a spot next to a stream on forest road 838. Very few campers in the area, all quiet and respectful. Road was rough, no problem for our Subaru Forester. Lots of hiking available in the area," says Tom E.
Tips from RVers
Road hazards: Larger rigs require careful route planning. "Pulling into my chosen spot and doing a 180 at the beauty and serenity of this area made me feel a little bit better regarding the trip in. Many have mentioned the 5+ miles of Washboard road, but there is a long section that has been washed out, rutted and very hazardous!" cautions Ronald C.
Leveling considerations: Some sites require minimal leveling. "Not too far down the road off the highway, this spot was easy to access for my 35 ft trailer and extended cab truck. Only took an inch and a half or so of leveling to get level on my driver side," shares Wyatt J. about Northeast Utah BLM Land.
Finding turnaround space: RVers should scout ahead for adequate space. "Quiet spot with a rock built fire pit. **Advise against trailers or anything larger than a small van," warns Jay W. about Carter Creek's limited space.
