Best Tent Camping near Mendon, UT
Dispersed tent camping opportunities exist in multiple canyons surrounding Mendon, Utah. Tent campers can find free primitive sites at Smithfield Dispersed Camping area and Curtis Creek/Arbs Basin, both located within a 30-minute drive of Mendon. Cache National Forest also offers established tent sites at Bridger Campground from May through September, providing a more developed option with trash collection and seasonal amenities.
Most primitive tent sites near Mendon feature natural, ungraded surfaces on forest or canyon terrain. Campers should prepare to be self-sufficient, as dispersed areas typically lack drinking water, toilets, and formal amenities. Fire restrictions are common during summer months, and permits may be required at certain locations like Curtis Creek and Monte Cristo dispersed areas. Access roads to many tent sites can narrow significantly, creating challenges for larger vehicles. A review mentioned, "No warning that the road narrows with no turn around about a mile into the campground, or the trees are overgrown which scratched up my sides."
Tent campers at Smithfield Dispersed Campsite enjoy proximity to a creek running through the canyon, with small clearings suitable for one or two tents or hammock camping. One camper noted that "After you've passed the Smithfield campground there are plenty of spots on both sides of the road where you can pull off and have dispersed camping." Sites at higher elevations like Monte Cristo offer spectacular views with aspen and fir forest surroundings but experience cooler temperatures and occasional strong winds. Most primitive tent camping areas become quite busy on weekends, particularly during summer months, so weekday arrivals are recommended for securing preferred sites. Fall brings vibrant foliage and fewer crowds at many of the forest tent sites surrounding Mendon.
