Tent camping options near Moroni, Utah range from free dispersed sites on public lands to established campgrounds with basic amenities. The region sits at the western edge of the Manti-La Sal National Forest with elevations between 5,500 and 8,500 feet throughout camping areas. Summer temperatures typically range 75-85°F during day and 45-55°F at night, with rapid cooling after sunset common even in summer months.
What to do
Hiking to hot springs: Fifth Water Hot Springs is accessible from Dry Canyon campground. "My roommates and I camped here in late-September and loved it. It's a good location and pretty close to the hot springs but not so close that you can smell the sulfur," notes Jamie M. about Dry Canyon.
Mountain biking: The Willow Creek area features trails directly adjacent to camping areas. Daniel S. mentions about Willow Creek Road - Dispersed Site: "It is RIGHT next to a mountain bike trail, so expect some early-morning bikers to be coming down."
Wildlife photography: Early mornings provide excellent opportunities to spot local wildlife. Michelle B. reports at Camp Maple Dell: "We enjoyed seeing deer walk through our camp daily," making dawn and dusk prime times for wildlife observation.
What campers like
River access: Several tent sites feature creekside locations with natural water features. "The river ran right by our site and it was lovely," shares Jamie M. about camping at Dry Canyon. Another camper, Ash S., adds: "River steps away. River not too cold."
Isolation on weekdays: Paul Bunyon's Woodpile offers quieter camping experiences during non-peak times. Chloe B. notes: "Went on a usually busy weekend but we were the only people there. Lots of coyotes howling at night, but otherwise great!"
Shaded campsites: Tree cover provides relief from summer sun at several locations. Ash S. describes Dry Canyon as having "Lots of shade and dappled sunlight," while Angela S. notes that Camp Maple Dell "has a lot of leafy trees for shade, most campsites have a pavilion and picnic table."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack basic amenities. Connie C. reports about Cottonwood Campground: "There is one pit toilet that did have toilet paper," while other areas have no facilities at all.
Pack-in requirements: Some sites require carrying equipment from parking areas. Ash S. mentions about Dry Canyon: "Do have to carry everything from the parking lot, across the bridge, to your campsite."
ATV traffic: Weekend vehicle noise affects several camping areas. Tracey W. notes about Willow Creek Road: "There is some ATV traffic but respectfully slow. Good roads in but we got there on a Sunday night and quite a bit of traffic heading out. I imagine the weekends are busy."
Water availability: Potable water is scarce at most sites. Brad B. explains about Dry Canyon: "This is a great spot for self-contained campers, van campers, or tent campers who don't need water," confirming visitors must bring their own drinking supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Group facilities: Some sites accommodate multiple family tents. Michelle B. describes Camp Maple Dell: "Multiple tents fit per site. We had 6 tents, and had room for several more. Covered pavillion with three picnic tables connected end to end."
Education opportunities: Wildlife encounters provide learning moments. Brad B. advises: "I have seen elk, deer, moose, and black bear in this area so bring a camera and don't leave food in your tent."
Budget-friendly options: Free camping exists throughout the region. Carol M. notes about Paul Bunyon's Woodpile: "Good, easy dispersed camping options on the way to Paul Bunyan Woodpile Trailhead."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality. Erik C. reports about Paul Bunyon's Woodpile: "Road was easy enough dry, imagine it would be tough after a storm."
Campsite selection: Finding level sites requires planning. Leah W. advises about Cottonwood Campground: "The road going into Cottonwood Campground has free dispersed camping along it. There area no amenities, however you can't beat free. On summer weekends, this whole road is PACKED with campers and 4-wheelers."
Weather preparation: High-elevation sites experience significant temperature fluctuations. Tracey W. cautions: "You are at almost 8000 ft so not a winter camping spot," highlighting the importance of seasonal planning for the best tent camping near Moroni, Utah.
