Best Dispersed Camping near North Salt Lake, UT

The Wasatch Mountains surrounding North Salt Lake, Utah provide numerous dispersed camping opportunities within an hour's drive of the city. Bountiful B Dispersed camping area sits just north of town, offering free primitive sites for both tent and RV campers without hookups or facilities. Further south, Millcreek Canyon features backcountry camping and yurts that require permits but provide more seclusion. The Twin Peaks Wilderness Area and Neffs Canyon offer hike-in only dispersed sites for those seeking true backcountry experiences. Most sites in the region operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with established fire rings at many locations but minimal other amenities.

Road conditions vary dramatically throughout the camping areas near North Salt Lake, with many sites requiring high-clearance vehicles or 4WD to access. As one camper noted, "If going all the way to the marked location on the map, only attempt with a high clearance 4x4 or you will not make it!" Most dispersed sites enforce a 14-day stay limit and require campers to pack out all trash. Summer brings mosquitoes and other insects, particularly at dusk, while winter access becomes limited by snow at higher elevations. Fire restrictions are common during dry summer months, and permits are required for camping in wilderness areas. Cell service is spotty throughout the mountains but improves at sites closer to the valley.

Mountain views dominate the camping experience in this region, with several campers highlighting panoramic vistas as worth the challenging access. "The views are some of the best! Mt. Timpanogos is in full view," reported one visitor to Cascade Springs. Sites near streams provide natural white noise and water for filtering. Insect activity varies seasonally, with some campers reporting significant mosquito and tick issues in early summer. Noise from off-road vehicles affects some areas, particularly Willow Spring, where one camper noted it "gets noisy and dusty at 8:00 am." Wildlife sightings include elk and deer, especially in the higher elevation sites. Campers consistently emphasize the importance of Leave No Trace principles, as trash accumulation has been reported at some of the more accessible sites.

Best Dispersed Sites Near North Salt Lake, Utah (36)

    1. Bountiful B Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Bountiful, UT
    7 miles

    "We found a spot that was more of a hill, which made it neat to get around, but the site was LITTERED with spent ammo, broken glass and broken pieces of clay pigeons."

    "Some awesome flat areas with a creek if you go in spring. Nice and quiet. Nearby shooting range."

    2. Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts

    8 Reviews
    Mounthaven, UT
    16 miles
    Website

    "You can backpack in and camp anywhere a 1/2 mile from any road like the other nearby canyons. Good trails to approach from are Church fork and Lambs Canyon Trailhead."

    "All the camping is backcountry so you can pick any trail and just make sure that you are 1/2 mile off the road and at least 200 ft from developed ares and water."

    3. Neffs Canyon Dispersed Site

    2 Reviews
    Millcreek, UT
    14 miles

    "We frequently come up here just to sleep outside some nights and head back home in the early morning to get food and shower."

    4. Millcreek Canyon Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Mounthaven, UT
    19 miles

    "Aire trail there are a few premade dispersed camping spots. 1 is good for groups of 3 tents with a nice big fire pit and the others are smaller for 1 or 2 people sharing a tent."

    "The hike is moderately difficult, especially carrying overnight gear, but it’s super worth it. There are dozens of locations along the trail you can just venture off into to camp."

    5. Mineral Basin Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Alta, UT
    27 miles

    $6 / night

    "Campground Review: Mineral Basin is located in the Wasatch Mountains to the East of Salt Lake City."

    "The ride up to mineral basin was dirt roads with amazing views. The campsite we settled on was absolutely beautiful."

    6. Twin Peaks Wilderness Area - Dispersed

    1 Review
    Mounthaven, UT
    20 miles

    "These are all backcountry sites and you have to be at least a 1/2 mile from any road before camping.  The best spots are more than a mile in at the meadows anyway!"

    7. Lake Desolation Primitive Sites

    1 Review
    Mounthaven, UT
    21 miles

    "The best part about living in Salt Lake City is that you can have brunch at Ruth's Diner at 8am, pack up your car around 10am, leave for the trail by 11am, and be on the trail by 11:30am."

    8. Albion Basin - Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Alta, UT
    24 miles

    "Area is not illuminated, as is expected, so I prepared a headlamp and a backup lantern for the hike."

    "Another beautiful dispersed campground site that sits in a beautiful meadow at the top of one of the busiest canyons in the country!"

    9. Lone Peak Cirque Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Alpine, UT
    24 miles

    "I've been wanting to summit Lone Peak since I first moved to Utah in 2012. "

    10. Pittsburg Lake Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Alta, UT
    25 miles
    Website

    "Campground Review: Dispersed camping at Pittsburg Lake, Utah

    Because I am into hiking and exploring national forest camping this summer, I found a fun adventure at Pittsburg Lake in the Uinta National"

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 36 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near North Salt Lake, UT

148 Reviews of 36 North Salt Lake Campgrounds



Guide to North Salt Lake

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near North Salt Lake, Utah, where nature meets adventure. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, these spots offer a perfect escape from the city.

Dispersed campers should check out Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts

  • This area allows for a unique camping experience with features like picnic tables and fire pits, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a cozy night under the stars. Check it out at Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts.
  • The scenic drive leading to this spot is breathtaking, but be aware that camping is only available from July 1st to November 1st, so plan your trip accordingly.
  • With trails that cater to both hikers and trail runners, this location is perfect for those who want to explore the outdoors while enjoying the company of their pets.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near North Salt Lake, Utah

  • Always check for permit requirements before heading out, as many areas, like Lone Peak Cirque Dispersed, require permits for camping.
  • Bring plenty of water, especially when camping in remote areas like Pittsburg Lake Dispersed, where water sources may be limited.
  • Be prepared for varying terrain; some spots may be rocky or uneven, so a good sleeping pad is essential for comfort.

Top activities while free camping near North Salt Lake

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near North Salt Lake, UT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near North Salt Lake, UT is Bountiful B Dispersed with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near North Salt Lake, UT?

TheDyrt.com has all 36 dispersed camping locations near North Salt Lake, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.