Primitive camping near Mona, Utah encompasses around 12,000 acres of public lands at elevations ranging from 4,800-5,600 feet. The area experiences temperature swings of 30-40°F between day and night during summer months, creating cool evenings even after hot days. Most sites sit on sandy or rocky terrain with sagebrush and juniper providing limited natural shade.
What to do
Recreational shooting areas: 3-5 miles north of most dispersed sites near Soldier's Pass Utah Backcountry where designated zones keep camping areas quieter. A camper noted, "This appears to be a place to go shooting," which means target practice is popular but concentrated in specific areas.
Paraglider watching: early mornings offer the best viewing from Miners Canyon where thermal updrafts create ideal conditions. A visitor mentioned, "Watching the paragliders on the weekends is cool as well," making this a unique spectator activity not requiring specialized equipment.
Stargazing: mid-week nights provide optimal viewing with minimal light pollution from nearby cities. From Miners Canyon BLM, one camper reported, "Skyline and stars are stunning," with clear views of the Milky Way visible on moonless nights.
What campers like
Level camping spots: easily accessible at Miners Canyon BLM where multiple pull-through sites accommodate various vehicles. A reviewer shared, "It was pretty as you drive in and if you keep to yourself you might be okay," indicating the area works well for those seeking space.
Creek access: seasonal water flow creates small swimming holes during spring runoff at Goshen Road Dispersed Camping. A camper observed, "There is one campsite with a sign that says 3 day public camping. It is a huge dirt lot with a few shade trees and creek," providing a refreshing feature during warmer months.
Open camping fields: groups can stay together at Sheep Creek where the layout accommodates multiple tents or vehicles. As one reviewer described, "Easy to find, large open field for camping with views in all directions. Better for RVs and self contained vans as there were no amenities or even privacy."
What you should know
Seasonal road conditions: spring snowmelt creates muddy access routes from March to May. At Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area, a visitor warned, "Be wary that when it rains, this field turns into a super slick and deep mud," making high clearance vehicles essential during wet periods.
Lake algae concerns: summer months bring harmful algal blooms to Utah Lake. A camper at Miners Canyon reported, "The lake isn't safe to swim or drink from at this time due to algae," with conditions typically worsening from July through September.
Long-term occupants: certain areas have established semi-permanent campers. One visitor to Miners Canyon BLM observed, "Most of the people here are living here," and another noted, "It's pretty as you drive in and if you keep to yourself you might be okay but there are quite a few long term residents along with all their garbage."
Tips for camping with families
Best family locations: sites along main roads provide easier access and better management. At Nebo Loop Road Dispersed Camping, a camper shared, "It can get crowded but there is plenty of space. Bathroom was nice just no TP which was fine for us we had some," making it suitable for families needing occasional facilities.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: early mornings increase chances of seeing deer and small mammals. While primitive camping options offer wildlife encounters, parents should maintain appropriate food storage as one camper reported seeing "deer regularly at dawn and dusk" near several sites.
Noise considerations: weekday camping reduces exposure to recreational vehicle traffic. A visitor noted, "This area has a couple fire rings to utilize. Sheep Creek can be a bit windy due to how open it is. The nice part about the wind is it keeps the bugs away," highlighting both challenges and benefits for family campers.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: scout first before committing to a spot at Miners Canyon Dispersed. A camper advised, "Very easy access public land right on Utah Lake. Packed gravel and dirt road going in is lumpy from use but smooths out a bit farther in. Side roads to sites are anyones guess," suggesting reconnaissance before bringing in larger vehicles.
Nearest dump station: 5 miles south of Miners Canyon BLM at a service station. An RVer shared, "Maverick gas station about 5 Miles'ish down the road has free dump station," providing essential information for self-contained campers planning multi-day stays.
Generator etiquette: limited hours reduce conflict with tent campers seeking quiet. A visitor observed, "Larger RVs occasionally run generators which can be noisy," indicating the need for consideration at sites where diverse camping styles overlap.
