The Manti-La-Sal National Forest splits into two separate mountain ranges: the Manti section above central Utah's plateau country and the La Sal section rising above Moab. Both allow dispersed camping under standard National Forest rules, with a 14-day stay limit, no trash service, and no water on-site. No restrooms at dispersed sites in either section.
The La Sal Mountains near Moab reach above 12,000 feet, and access roads stay open from roughly June through October depending on snowpack. The Manti section sits lower and generally opens earlier in spring. Forest roads in both sections require high clearance after rain, and clay-heavy roads in the La Sal area become impassable even for 4WD when wet. Fire restrictions hit both sections frequently from July through September, so check current status with the local ranger district before the trip.
Moab BLM camping sits at lower elevation below the La Sals and stays accessible year-round. Manti-La-Sal tent campgrounds cover developed sites in both forest sections for those who want designated spots with vault toilets. Check road conditions directly with the Moab or Price ranger district, not just general weather forecasts.
"Turn left at the map coordinates. You are at almost 8000 ft so not a winter camping spot. There is some ATV traffic but respectfully slow."
"This was a great site to stop and pitch my rooftop tent. Not too far up the canyon, and it was very quiet."
"This BLM campground now has designated campsites, a picnic table, large deep fire rings, pit toilets and no trash service. Also no water. "
"Free camping and plenty of activities to do in the area. Climbing (Bouldering)
Site seeing (Not far from The Wedge)
Beautiful area"
"Easy access to maple canyon to go climbing. We were the only ones at the site, it was great, we did have to do a bit of driving in circles to try to find a spot that was flat enough."
"Fantastic views, just a short drive on good dirt roads off I-70. Four or so sites along the road. The last one on the right surrounded by trees with some protection."
"Google strikes again and had me exit and drive 11 miles on a dirt road with carved out tunnels, I70 underpasses and a steep climb. Overall not a terrible drive but would prefer a shorter drive."
"Around dusk the wind picked up and almpst destroyed our camp and sent it into the canyon. Tie everything down or be in camp for the show! The ground is hard for tent stakes."
"This is a free campground on public lands (BLM) in Utah’s San Rafael Swell. There is one vault toilet and a few campsites along the edge of a beautiful canyon carved by the San Rafael River."
"There were a few sites around but it’s mainly just the trailhead parking lot, with little to no cover. No amenities. The panel is worth it"
"Camping is only 5 mins down the dirt road that is very good for 2WD. So the hike to the petroglyphs, it’s 1 mile RT."
RangerThis hike is amazing. We brought our dog along. The end is absolutely gorgeous. There were a few sites around but it’s mainly just the trailhead parking lot, with little to no cover. No amenities. The panel is worth it
TravelerEasy drive to get to camp area, about 15 miles up a paved road into beautiful national park. There are about 15 spots in the Aspens, we went all the way to end and camped against Cold Spring lake.
Area was pretty full in October with lots of people deer hunting.
GuideLots of space, not too busy, beautiful view in the morning
GuideDid not end up staying as a lot of spots were filled, didn’t go too deep as road started getting worse and data dropped out. Seems nice but probably wanna get there early in night to secure a spot. Would not go in a low clearance vehicle.
ScoutBit of a labyrinth to find a spot but worth the effort. People around but still nice amount of privacy
GuideBeautiful views nice campgrounds
ScoutVery close to the I 70 exit, but far enough away, we could not hear the freeway
TravelerIncredible ease of access off the interstate. There is some traffic noise, but not too bad.
Ranger28 campsites spaced at great distances down Buckhorn Draw and not a single other camper or person seen. Sites have concrete picnic tables, a grill, spectacular views, and a night sky that needs to be seen to be believed.
Primitive camping near Manti-La Sal National Forest offers self-sufficient backcountry experiences across various elevations ranging from 5,000 to 9,000 feet. The region features stark desert landscapes contrasting with forested mountains, creating distinct temperature variations that can exceed 30°F between day and night. Most dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles due to unmaintained forest roads that become impassable during wet conditions.
Bouldering opportunities: New Joe's Bouldering Area provides access to quality climbing routes with basic facilities. According to Jake L., there's "climbing (bouldering)" and "site seeing (not far from The Wedge)" making it a "beautiful area" for outdoor enthusiasts.
Petroglyph exploration: Rochester Rock Camping features ancient rock art accessible via a short trail. Erin G. notes: "There's a trail out to a petroglyph site which was really neat. We hiked out in the morning and didn't encounter anyone else."
Target practice: Sites like Willow Creek Bowl offer natural features for shooting activities. Mandi M. describes access to "a 'hollow' with a high bank that's perfect for target practice of any kind" at this dispersed location.
Mountain biking access: Several sites connect directly to trail systems. Daniel S. notes about Willow Creek Road: "It is RIGHT next to a mountain bike trail, so expect some early-morning bikers to be coming down."
Reliable cell coverage: Unlike many remote areas, several sites maintain connectivity. At Fish Lake National Forest, Alisa H. reports: "had cell service - T-Mobile. Private, only had 3 cars drive by in 18 hours."
Isolation during weekdays: Wedge Overlook provides greater solitude midweek. As Honeymooners O. explains: "Very peaceful and quiet during the week, however it fills up quickly on the weekends."
Strategic positioning: Some sites offer specific natural features. About Willow Creek Bowl, Mandi M. describes: "Wide open meadow. Set back from the road... Lots of afternoon shade."
Sunset visibility: The landscape's western exposure creates dramatic evening light. Dalton at Willow Creek Road reports: "Campsite I stayed at/the drive up is amazing during sunset."
Muddy conditions after rain: Wet weather makes access challenging at some sites. Isabelle K. warns about Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area: "Be wary that when it rains, this field turns into a super slick and deep mud."
Water access limitations: Even sites near water sources require preparation. Mandi M. notes: "It's a bit of a walk to the creek for water, so bring lots."
Management changes: Some areas are transitioning to fee systems. Greg L. reports: "BLM is going to construct a new developed fee CG in 2023 and fees of $20 will be charged. Not sure if all the existing free designated dispersed will go away."
Livestock presence: Cattle grazing occurs throughout the region. Laurie H. observed at Fish Lake National Forest: "Cows meander around the campsite..didn't bother us."
Spacious gathering areas: Some locations accommodate multiple groups. At Sheep Creek, Mike C. notes: "Got crowded as the evening went on but plenty of room for all."
Educational opportunities: Sites with historical features engage children. Julie K. at Rochester Rock Camping mentions: "So the hike to the petroglyphs, it's 1 mile RT."
Weather planning: Prepare for temperature swings. Glen B. advises: "This is Desert, so it will be hot. This is also Mountainous so it might get cold fast, so pack accordingly."
Accessible exploration: Kid-friendly activities exist even at primitive sites. Abigail T. at Ephraim Manti Dispersed shares: "It was about 45 minutes to an hour out of town and lots of twisty roads, the scenery was pretty."
Size restrictions: Many roads limit larger vehicles. Rick W. cautions about Sheep Creek: "Road is in ok shape. Only few places small vehicle can park. Not for RV's or larger trucks really."
Pull-through availability: Some sites accommodate easier parking. Christy S. at Fish Lake National Forest found: "It had a pull through and trees and was a bit more private."
Road conditions: Surface quality varies significantly. Carrie C. explains: "What I lived about our site (site 5) was that is was at the halfway point of the mountain bike trail."
Level parking concerns: Finding flat spots challenges larger vehicles. At Wedge Overlook, Andy O. advises: "Some areas you can put a RV but it is a first come first serve area."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best dispersed camping spots in Manti-La Sal National Forest?
Manti-La Sal National Forest offers excellent dispersed camping options. Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area stands out with its wide open spaces just 2 miles off the main highway, accessible via a good dirt road with plenty of options for both tents and RVs. Black Flat Cua Dispersed is another gem for those seeking solitude, offering amazing fly fishing in nearby creeks and lakes. Other notable spots include Skyline Drive (look for sites near the creek for shade), Wedge Overlook (featuring canyon views), and Lone Warrior Canyon Camp in the San Rafael Swell. Most dispersed sites have no amenities, so come prepared with water and pack out all trash to preserve these beautiful areas.
What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Manti-La Sal National Forest?
Dispersed camping in Manti-La Sal National Forest follows standard Forest Service regulations. Campers should practice Leave No Trace principles, particularly important at areas like Goshen Road Dispersed Camping where improper trash disposal has been noted. Camp in established sites when possible and avoid creating new impact areas. Most locations allow stays up to 14 days within a 30-day period. Campfires are permitted in existing fire rings when there are no fire restrictions in effect. At New Joe's Bouldering Area Campground, there are designated campsites with fire rings and pit toilets but no water or trash service. Some areas like Buckhorn Draw have fee-designated sites with tables and fire rings. Remember to bring your own water and pack out all trash regardless of where you camp.
What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Manti-La Sal National Forest?
Dispersed camping in Manti-La Sal National Forest follows standard Forest Service regulations. Campers should practice Leave No Trace principles, particularly important at areas like Goshen Road Dispersed Camping where improper trash disposal has been noted. Camp in established sites when possible and avoid creating new impact areas. Most locations allow stays up to 14 days within a 30-day period. Campfires are permitted in existing fire rings when there are no fire restrictions in effect. At New Joe's Bouldering Area Campground, there are designated campsites with fire rings and pit toilets but no water or trash service. Some areas like Buckhorn Draw have fee-designated sites with tables and fire rings. Remember to bring your own water and pack out all trash regardless of where you camp.
Where are the best dispersed camping spots in Manti-La Sal National Forest?
Manti-La Sal National Forest offers excellent dispersed camping options. Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area stands out with its wide open spaces just 2 miles off the main highway, accessible via a good dirt road with plenty of options for both tents and RVs. Black Flat Cua Dispersed is another gem for those seeking solitude, offering amazing fly fishing in nearby creeks and lakes. Other notable spots include Skyline Drive (look for sites near the creek for shade), Wedge Overlook (featuring canyon views), and Lone Warrior Canyon Camp in the San Rafael Swell. Most dispersed sites have no amenities, so come prepared with water and pack out all trash to preserve these beautiful areas.
Do I need a permit for dispersed camping in Manti-La Sal National Forest?
No permit is required for general dispersed camping in Manti-La Sal National Forest. Most areas are free and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. However, some specific locations like Buckhorn Draw fee designated Campsites do require a fee payment for overnight stays. At Wedge Overlook, camping is free on BLM public lands with no advance permits needed. While permits aren't typically required, it's always wise to check with the local ranger district office before your trip, as regulations can change seasonally. Fire restrictions may be implemented during dry periods, which could affect your camping plans. Remember that most dispersed sites have no facilities, so prepare accordingly.
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