Dispersed camping options near Newcastle, Utah include several BLM and National Forest sites within driving distance. North Creek Dispersed Camping offers creek-side sites with shade from cottonwood trees, while Enterprise Reservoir Campground provides lakeside camping suitable for both tents and RVs. Kolob Reservoir area features free primitive sites with good stargazing opportunities. Leeds Canyon Dispersed sites in Dixie National Forest are organized with numbered locations, with sites 1-6 being most accessible for travel trailers and RVs.
Most dispersed sites in this region require self-sufficiency. No drinking water, toilets, or trash service is available at these locations. According to reviews, Leeds Canyon sites allow camping for up to 16 days free of charge. Fire restrictions vary seasonally; many areas prohibit campfires during summer months due to wildfire danger. Several campers noted significant dust issues at Hurricane Cliffs sites, with one reporting "fine, silty, reddish stuff that wafts in the air, settles in your screens, rugs, and skin."
Road conditions vary considerably between sites. Leeds Canyon features well-maintained gravel roads suitable for most vehicles, though dust can be a concern. Hurricane Cliffs access roads are described as heavily washboarded, requiring slow travel. Many upper campsites at Dalton Wash and Gooseberry Mesa require high-clearance 4WD vehicles. Cell service is generally available at Leeds Canyon and Hurricane Cliffs areas, but becomes unreliable in more remote locations. Pack out all trash and camp only in established sites to protect these public lands. Campers frequently report finding litter at these sites, so consider bringing extra bags to help maintain these areas.
"There’s of shade from the trees and a beautiful creek. We arrived at around 3pm and no one was around. By 5pm a good amount of people started driving in a picking their spots."
"Went to the right from the entrance all the way to end next to a private property. It’s really quiet and more secluded. You see other campers but you have privacy and your own place."
"This place is a real hidden gem. You camp inside a forest of volcanic tuff rocks, which looks unique and cool. Sites are spacious and not crowded."
"Lakeside dispersed camping is competitive, so get there early on a Friday if you plan to be there over a weekend."
from $40 / night
"There are no fees but also no amenities. So please, if you pack it in then you need to pack it out. Bring plenty of water for drinking and cleaning."
"Great camping close to Zion! There are some shaded spots but they get taken quick. There were lots of spots out in the open and we ended up at one of those."
"Beautiful campground on a lake. During the winter there's alot of snow, so it's hard to camp up there then. Perfect during the summer. No reservations & free camping."
"Campsite #4 was great with privacy and direct lake access. No bug/ mosquito issues when we went in September. Weather fluctuated from 70s in the day to 30s at night."
from $53 / night
"Easy to find, right off the highway and tons of spots. A few other campers there on the night we stayed. Pretty warm at night even in late September"
"Noise from highway audible so wear ear plugs. I would stay again."
"Quite a few dispersed spots. Being out in the desert there isn't much to create privacy from one group of people to the next but they are far enough apart you won't hear eachother."
"This spot is a little ways off the highway. The road is rutted but manageable."
"Leeds Canyon Dispersed camp sites are on the Dixie NF. Lower dispersed sites 1-6 are easiest to get into with a TT. Camp in designated spots, camping free for 16 days. No water, no trash, no toilets."
"It was only a 1-2 block walk to Leeds Creek to sit on a rock and soak feet in creek. “Children’s Forest at the Kiln” maybe 1/4 mile down from site. A sweet little trail leading to a historical kiln."
"Most people were camping in a large packed area a shit distance from the highway and most campers did not have fire rings. We were there for four nights and no one came be to check. No water."
"The gps takes you crazy ways through rough dirt roads. Go down to the 2nd left and there is a perfect cul-de-sac area. We loved this spot and stayed a week."
"Our car is 2WD and the upper spots (to the right) seemed safest- it’s a little muddier if you stay on the main dirt road into the area."
"Close to the road without having to hear all the freeway traffic. It’s a good while away from the park (25 minutes maybe) but not too far that you feel like you are wasting gas."
TravelerSolo girlie pop car camper- Great reception, clear sites. Felt safe. Some trash in the fire ring but people are gonna people I guess. I used someone’s satellite photo to access the spot, as it showed a paved road access rather than the bumpy version. I didn’t to too far in but my Subaru forester sport had no issues. Only stayed one night.
ScoutPlenty of spots available with fire pits. We got a spot right by the water. There are a lot of ant hills and it can be pretty muddy in some spots. My AWD suv did fine in the mud.
ScoutDefinitely a little bumpy and may be hard getting through to the back if wet and muddy. Other than that nice little spots with fire pits, a nice little stream, good service and not too far from the park.
TravelerEasy to get in. Small pop up
TravelerEasy to find and close to Springdale…the road in a bit tough but any 4WD can get to a spot if you take your time. The sound of the creek at night is so nice and it was super peaceful!
TravelerWe camped here three nights, the first day being a Sunday night, and I think we snagged the last spot. Our car is 2WD and the upper spots (to the right) seemed safest- it’s a little muddier if you stay on the main dirt road into the area. The scenery is gorgeous, and there is a creek running through the greenbelt of trees. Road noise was a little noticeable when we were outside our car, but sleeping in the car with one of the windows open towards the creek was very pleasant. There is some kind of off roading stuff going across the road but they seemed to turn off all the bright lights and quieted down shortly after dark. This location is about a 20-25 minute drive from Zion National Park. We will definitely be back!
TravelerIt’s a beautiful Mountain View!
GuideGreat camping site with a spectacular view. You get a beautiful sunrise and sunset, there are a good amount of sites scattered on the road. Not too busy, and campsites can be far enough to not see anyone once you set up. Road has lots of potholes so look out, but saw all kinds of cars driving it. Would be a 5 but the amount of trash left is a bit sad. If you come here make sure to clean up! Also be careful there are multiple signs for where the private property is, it’s all pretty clear but just don’t accidentally end up on the private property instead of a campsite.
ScoutAs native Las Vegans, we are desperate to find summer respite in higher altitudes in Southern Utah, which is barely 3 hours away with many options within minutes of I-15. My friend Paul used to camp in a secluded clearing 1/4 mile south of Yankee Meadows Reservoir for years and said it was his favorite secret camping spot for years until I got him drunk and demanded that he show me this fabled spot. When we went, the tiny meadow was full of cow patties from free range cattle, which kind of killed my visual hard on for this spot.
On the plus side, the trout fishing on the beautiful, non-motorized reservoir was great and on that trip I discovered another, more spectacular and less cow-shitty camping area north of the reservoir in a large meadow among a stand of pine trees. The lack of pit toilets (no big loss), and picnic tables is just inconvenient enough to ward off the fair-weather camping fans, which leaves the area much quieter and exclusive feeling. The best part is the small rushing stream that passes through the campground and serenades you to sleep if your tent is close enough. I highly recommend camping in the spring when the meadow is carpeted with wildflowers, however this high altitude area had perfect weather all summer. It is also relatively close to the ski area, Brian Head, which is a great place to hike, mountain bike, or rent an ATV/ Razer.
Please don't tell too many people about YMR; one of my top 10 favorite camping spots on earth...
Here is a poem I penned about this spot:
Welcome, Autumn! Cool September mornings are welcomed in the Mojave like hugs from grandchildren not seen for two consecutive Christmases. The frenetic pace, the hustle of the long summer darting around on hot pavement like harried ants carrying heavy cargo is mercifully drawing to an end. A Fall pilgrimage to Lee Canyon or Yankee Meadows to witness the flittering aspen groves afire with colors and spectacle that rival any fireworks show on the Vegas Strip. Our bodies, which have not felt the sensation of chill for half a year begin to rest and to heal and like the sun-scorched and wilted plants in the yard, Autumn brings with it new growth, re-found vigor and Agency that can only be found with fresh eyes. Autumn is the eternal font of Gratitude. Welcome back, Friend!
Here's another great review:
https://landcruisingadventure.blogspot.com/2016/06/camping-near-yankee-meadows-campground.html?m=1
Newcastle, Utah sits at roughly 5,300 feet elevation with surrounding dispersed camping areas spanning elevations from 4,000 to 8,000 feet. The region experiences dramatic temperature shifts, with summer days reaching 100°F while nights can drop below 50°F. Desert soils in the area typically consist of fine red sand that causes significant dust issues during dry periods and becomes muddy and difficult to navigate after rain.
Lakeside fishing: At Enterprise Reservoir Campground, campers can fish at both upper and lower reservoirs. "We've had better luck fishing at the lower reservoir. The lower reservoir is quieter and lakeside spots are easier to obtain," notes M B., who adds that "no shade trees" exist at this location.
Creek exploration: The riparian zones near Leeds Canyon provide water-based recreation during spring and early summer. "There was a 1-2 block walk to Leeds Creek to sit on a rock and soak feet in creek," reports Lisa S. from Leeds Canyon. Sites near moving water tend to fill first, as campers seek relief from summer heat.
Historic kiln visit: Take a short hike from Leeds Canyon sites to see remnants of early settler activities. "'Children's Forest at the Kiln' maybe 1/4 mile down from site. A sweet little trail leading to a historical kiln," describes Lisa S. The area has interpretive signage explaining the historical lime production process.
Natural cooling: North Creek Dispersed Camping provides access to water features that help with temperature management. "The stream is a great place to put some chairs and cool off. I will definitely be coming back here on my next Zion trip!" writes Kristin M., highlighting how waterways become essential during hot months.
Night skies: Areas away from city lights offer exceptional astronomical viewing. "The star gazing is incredible. Gorgeous sunrise over the valley - Beautiful treat to wake up to," notes Erin V. about her experience at Leeds Canyon Dispersed #4. Light pollution is minimal throughout the region.
Cell reception: Unlike many remote camping areas, several Newcastle area sites maintain usable connectivity. "Good cell coverage with Verizon," reports Dickie Simmons S. about LaVerkin Overlook. This allows for emergency communications and work options for digital nomads who need to stay connected.
Road deterioration: Many access roads become problematic after weather events. "You def need a higher up car to get to where I went. I have a Honda HRV and took it really slow and didn't have any issues," advises Mads G. about Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed, indicating roads require caution even in moderate clearance vehicles.
Site limitations: During peak seasons, competition for prime spots becomes intense. "Lakeside dispersed camping is competitive, so get there early on a Friday if you plan to be there over a weekend," advises M B. about Enterprise Reservoir, with lakeside spots by big rocks going first.
Sanitation concerns: Without facilities, human waste management becomes problematic in popular areas. "The fields in and around the camp area are filled with human and animal poop...they really need to build some pit toilets or something out here because it is really gross!!" reports Katie W., emphasizing the importance of proper waste disposal practices.
Water safety: Kolob Resevoir offers recreational equipment rentals for family water activities. "You can rent kayaks and canoes from the mini market for a great price as well. It gets chilly at night so don't forget your sweater," advises Brittney C., noting temperature variations that families should prepare for.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential livestock and wildlife interactions. "We saw probably 40+ cows throughout our whole stay. They're at your campsite and all the trails," warns Dustin S. about Enterprise Reservoir, highlighting that animals frequently pass through campsites.
Weather preparation: Temperature swings in the region require versatile clothing and gear. "Weather fluctuated from 70s in the day to 30s at night. High elevation of 8100' makes for a great escape of summer heat," shares Esther Y. about Kolob Reservoir, explaining why layering is essential, especially for children.
Site selection strategy: For travel trailers and larger rigs, consider numbered sites. "Leeds Canyon Dispersed camp sites are on the Dixie NF. Lower dispersed sites 1-6 are easiest to get into with a TT," explains Greg L. about Leeds Canyon Dispersed #1, adding that camping remains "free for 16 days" with no services.
Clearance requirements: Evaluate your vehicle capabilities against road conditions before committing. "Road was a bit rutted but can be handled by any medium clearance vehicle," notes Dickie Simmons S. about LaVerkin Overlook Road, while other reviewers mention areas requiring high-clearance or 4WD access.
Rustic camping alternatives: When seeking primitive camping near Newcastle, Utah, consider accessibility trade-offs. "There are sites on both sides of the creek. If you have a vehicle with high clearance, take the creek crossing and you will have many more options!" suggests Morgan L., describing how crossing natural barriers can lead to less crowded camping areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Newcastle, UT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Newcastle, UT is North Creek Dispersed Camping with a 4.5-star rating from 53 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 74 dispersed camping locations near Newcastle, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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