Dispersed camping opportunities near Neola, Utah range from high-elevation forest sites to reservoir-adjacent camping areas. The region sits at elevations between 4,500-10,000 feet, creating diverse camping conditions across multiple seasons. Most free camping sites in this area are managed by the U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management, with accessibility varying significantly depending on recent weather and road conditions.
What to do
Mountain biking at McCoy Flats: The McCoy Flats MTB Trailhead offers extensive riding opportunities with 46 miles of trails. "This trail system boasts 46 miles and 15 trials for all skill levels," reports one visitor who enjoyed the convenient camping setup that allows direct trail access from camp.
Explore cave systems: Near Massey Meadow Camping Area, visitors can explore underground features. "There are a lot of beautiful places you can explore, including Massey Cave," notes one camper who recommends using the Flume Trail for access.
Fishing at Starvation Reservoir: Camp at Juniper Point for easy water access. "We loved jumping in the reservoir and the fishing is great," reports a camper, though they note that "spiders were an issue still plaguing us a week later in all of our gear."
Wildlife viewing: The forested areas host diverse animal populations. "I spent 25 days camp on top the mountain above the meadows and hiked well over 100 miles in the back country. The scenery and wildlife was amazing. Deer, birds, moose and mountain lions cover this range," shares an experienced backcountry camper.
What campers like
Exceptional stargazing: The remote nature of free camping near Neola provides stellar night sky views. "Had a fantastic AT&T service and the stargazing was unreal," reports a visitor who stayed at McCoy Flats for four nights.
Abundant foraging opportunities: The mountains provide seasonal harvesting options. "I spent my days foraging for mushrooms and berries to which I had found plenty of," notes a camper who explored the backcountry extensively.
Privacy between sites: McCoy Flats East Dispersed Camp offers spacious camping areas. "This spot was an easy pull off with plentiful choices, and lots of elbow room," writes one visitor who appreciated the convenience for a quick overnight stay.
Good cellular connectivity: Many dispersed areas maintain decent service. "Full service on AT&T and Verizon. The town of Vernal is close by with a Walmart less than 10-15 minutes," notes one camper, making the area practical for those needing to stay connected.
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access to many dispersed sites requires careful driving. "New campers to this site should recon first before hauling a TT up these narrow entrenched two-track sandy roads. The right fork is best IMO," advises a visitor to McCoy Flats Juniper Dispersed.
Weather unpredictability: The Uinta Mountains experience rapid weather changes. "Weather can be unpredictable in the Uintahs, so prepare for anything! We've had hail and snow in July!" warns a camper who frequently visits Windy Park.
Cleanliness concerns at popular sites: Some areas suffer from visitor impacts. "Spent a solid couple hours just cleaning up glass around our site for our dogs," reports a visitor to Juniper Point who observed that "people that come here treat this site like trash and trash it."
Camping regulations: Most dispersed areas have specific rules. "The only rule is that you have to camp within 150 feet of a developed road. There is a 16 day camp limit for leaving your camper in the same camp spot," explains a visitor familiar with Ashley National Forest policies.
Tips for camping with families
Group-friendly areas: Knight Hollow at Fred Hayes State Park works well for larger gatherings. "Facilities are amazingly clean, easy to accommodate a large group of people!" notes a visitor who used the area for a group outing.
Multi-activity locations: Look for areas with diverse recreation options. "Horses, hiking, large family areas, things to do here year round. Spring-summer-fall-winter you can ski and snowshoe in the winter and camp, hike, bike, ride horses, the rest of the year," recommends a regular visitor to North Fork Camping Area.
Insect preparation: Pack appropriate protection, especially near water. "Downside, lots of bugs... The flies are an issue," warns a family who camped at Juniper Point during summer months.
Shade access: Limited tree cover at some sites impacts comfort. "There is one pavilion for a bunch of camping sites (this is your only source of shade so bring sunscreen)," advises a camper about desert camping conditions in the region.
Tips from RVers
Ground preparation: Starvation Hideaway Dispersed requires proper vehicles for access. "Good place to jump off the road for a night if you have higher clearance, 4 x 4 if you want to go in other places, and are looking for some seclusion," recommends an RVer who found the area suitable for overnight stays.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at many sites. "Not a level spot to be found. Good scenery but overall not a great stay," notes an RVer who found Juniper Point difficult for setup despite its $15 daily fee.
Extended stay options: Some areas accommodate longer-term camping. "One of the best spots I have found for full time RV/Van life. Extremely quite with amazing sunsets," reports a full-timer who appreciates the proximity to services in Vernal.
Vault toilet locations: Track facility access points when choosing sites. "There is an older vault toilet up in the junipers and a new vault toilet out by main paved road," notes a visitor to McCoy Flats Juniper Dispersed who recommends careful reconnaissance before bringing in trailers.
