Dispersed camping near Midvale, Utah offers backcountry sites at elevations ranging from 7,000 to 10,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during the day with overnight lows dropping to 40-50°F even in July and August. Sites along north-facing ridges tend to retain snow into early June while south-facing slopes dry out earlier in the season.
What to do
Hike to alpine lakes: The Pittsburgh Lake trail near Midvale provides 1,500 feet of elevation gain over 1.5 miles to reach a serene alpine destination. "The hike is totally doable even with a lot of gear, just go slow and be careful of your footing. To be honest, I felt sorer after the hike down then after the hike up," notes one Pittsburgh Lake Dispersed visitor.
Trail running: Trails throughout the area offer varied terrain for runners of all levels. "Millcreek Canyon is home to some wonderful trails that can be accessed by foot or bike. Although the canyon offers many hiking trails, the main use of the trails seems to be for trail running," explains a camper at Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer the best chance to spot native animals. "Everytime we come here we also see moose and deer. Best time is definitely fall," reports a camper who frequents the backcountry areas.
Water activities: Some lakes permit paddleboarding during summer months. "I was able to relax and float and tool around. You can't go very far but being on the water is always a good time," shares a visitor who carried inflatable equipment to one of the higher elevation lakes.
What campers like
Privacy in primitive settings: Sites separated from main trails provide solitude. "We accessed this area via the east side and Wasatch State Park and Midway, UT. It is a long dirt road which is relatively maintained... The campsite we chose was off a small spur road which offered privacy and was along a small stream," shares a camper at Mineral Basin Dispersed.
Pet-friendly options: Many sites welcome four-legged companions. "We love Millcreek Canyon for camping, hiking, or even just going up for dinner at their day use spots. Pet friendly. One of our families favorite canyons," explains a visitor who enjoys the versatility of the area.
Fall colors: September and October camping provides spectacular foliage viewing opportunities. "It was so beautiful the color of the leaves were impeccable. The stargazing was very Exquisite," reports a camper who visited during autumn.
Climbing access: Advanced climbers can find routes within hiking distance of camps. "For the more adventurous there is climbing abound from 5 single pitch crags that surround Cecret Lake and adventurous (read: chossy) mixed multi-pitch routes that will take you to the top of Devils Castle," describes a visitor to Albion Basin - Dispersed.
What you should know
Seasonal road closures: Many access roads remain impassable until summer. "We couldn't access early June road still closed past the ski resort," reports one visitor attempting to reach Mineral Basin in late spring.
Bathroom facilities: Most dispersed sites have no facilities. At developed sites, facilities vary widely in quality. "The major con in this park in general is the bathrooms are yucky especially at this site," notes a visitor to Salamander Flat.
Fire restrictions: Some areas prohibit all fires regardless of season. "Another beautiful dispersed campground site that sits in a beautiful meadow at the top of one of the busiest canyons in the country!" notes a camper describing a no-fire zone.
Permit requirements: Check requirements before arriving. "This is a national forest so there is technically a park permit required. However, we have an annual park pass and they accept that as well. It is an honor system kind of park permit. They ask you to scan the QR code or pay at the self pay station. $10 for a 3day pass, $20 for a 7 day pass," explains a visitor documenting the current system.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with water features: Kids enjoy accessible streams. "We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river. Just a fun time," reports a visitor who regularly camps with family.
Wildlife education opportunities: Morning wildlife watching becomes a learning activity. "My boyfriend and I car camped here for the first time and it was great! There are multiple spots to set up camp with private fire pits and trails nearby," shares a camper at Cascade Springs Dispersed Site.
Bring insect protection: Higher elevations experience mosquito activity, especially near water. "I hope to try the spot again later in the season when all this moisture lets up a bit because it really looked lovely," explains a camper who encountered heavy insect activity during early summer.
Check campsite surfaces: Some areas have rough ground. "The campsite had zero shade — so make sure to bring a canopy of some sort; there are no trees around the site. Third, the campsite is all gravel, so if you have a dog, be careful they don't burn their paws," advises a visitor noting terrain considerations.
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions before committing: Recent storm damage affects accessibility. "The road is a bit rough, mainly due to water runoff but nothing too bad," reports one RVer who successfully navigated to their site.
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. "Pulling our small off road camper up was challenging in spots due to the heavy rutting and runoff but when we made it up it was a spectacular area!" shares a visitor to Neffs Canyon Dispersed Site.
Arrive early for optimal spots: Weekend availability decreases rapidly. "Stayed for the weekend and it was great! Had the spot right next to the bathrooms but not too stinky or loud. Gotta make sure you get there kinda early or most spots will be taken," advises an RVer who secured a site at a busier location.
Consider trailer size limitations: Small trailers fare better than large ones. "Don't come with a trailer. Just don't do it. Sure is pretty but we never made it to the top," warns a visitor who attempted to bring a trailer to higher-elevation camping areas.
