Dispersed camping opportunities near Oak City, Utah allow tent campers to experience the juniper-covered high desert at elevations around 5,000 feet. Summer temperatures in this region regularly exceed 90°F during daylight hours but cool significantly at night due to the arid climate. Road conditions throughout the area can become challenging after precipitation, with many sites requiring high-clearance vehicles during wet weather.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: The Paul Bunyon's Woodpile area provides access to unique geological formations via a short trail from the camping area. "Easy hike to see the formation, but very hot in July! Went on a usually busy weekend but we were the only people there. Lots of coyotes howling at night, but otherwise great!" notes Chloe B. about Paul Bunyon's Woodpile.
Sand recreation activities: The Little Sahara Recreation Area offers extensive sand dunes for various activities. Ryan B. reports about Jericho Picnic & Camping Area: "Great recreation area just a couple hours from Salt Lake City. Lots of sand dunes and opportunities for play. Our Boy Scout Troop sand boarded and rolled down the dunes. Lots of people bring their ATV's."
Stargazing opportunities: With minimal light pollution and clear desert skies, the area provides excellent night sky viewing. "At night the stars were so beautiful while sitting around the campfire and being together while roasting marsh mellows," writes Judy M. about her experience camping in the region.
What campers like
Easy access from highways: Many sites serve as convenient stopover points for travelers. Bruce J. notes about Dispersed Sandy Lot: "We were looking for an easy place away from the interstate to split our drive from Idaho to St George in half. There was no one here at all and found easy place with a tree to set up 26ft tt."
Natural shade protection: Despite the desert environment, many sites offer tree cover. "Camped overnight. We had the whole place to ourselves. There are several fire ring/picnic table spots in the campground. Maple trees, evergreens and oak trees throughout. Beautiful fresh air. Plenty of shade," shares Russell W. about Maple Hollow.
Solitude and privacy: The dispersed nature of camping in this area provides separation from other campers. One visitor to Fish Lake National Forest Campsite mentions: "Great spot for camping with a group. Quite a few spots accessible by car. A couple fireplaces here and there too. A fair amount of fallen pine and juniper wood there to use for building fires."
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife may approach campsites, particularly after dark. Ean P. warns about Fish Lake National Forest Campsite: "I do not recommend tent camping here solo though. This wasn't my first time tent camping solo either. As I was laying in my sleeping bag inside my tent around 11pm, some creature started stalking me around midnight. I could hear it moving and breathing outside my tent."
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality throughout the region. Andrew M. reports about Maple Hollow: "Much bigger climb than expected, so if towing a heavier trailer be aware. Gravel road is well maintained with minimal washboard."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack amenities. Megan W. observed: "There was a roundabout at the coordinates and another van was there, but there looked to be 3-4 more small spots for tents or vans. Not sure how many could accommodate a bigger rig. Lots of bugs, none biting. About a 7-10 min drive to the freeway. Some broken glass and trash, but nothing unexpected."
Tips for camping with families
Sand exploration opportunities: The soft sand areas provide natural play spaces for children. Carolynn D. shares about BLM Little Sahara RA - White Sands Campground: "We arrived late evening, self pay registration was easy. The Stars were beautiful and the sand was soft and fun to walk in. We set up two tents and thoroughly enjoyed the visit."
Elevated sites benefit: Choosing higher elevation sites provides better air circulation during hot weather. Chula R. reports: "Stop on our way North in our van with our 2 kids. Drove about 20 Minutes off the 15 on hwy 50 to Whiskey creek road. Camp was relatively flat, good trees for shade and elevated to allow for nice views and a breeze. Kids enjoyed exploring and climbing the small trees."
Water availability challenges: No water sources exist at most dispersed sites, requiring families to bring sufficient supplies. A visitor notes: "The water supply is turned off at all water sites - unsure whether this is related to flood damage or something else," highlighting the unreliability of even established water sources in the area.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many sites can accommodate smaller vehicles but present challenges for larger rigs. Erik C. reports about dispersed camping in the area: "Road was easy enough dry, imagine it would be tough after a storm. There are a number of well dispersed sites, some with good wind protection, others less so."
Alternative parking strategies: When designated sites are full, nearby areas often provide options. Bob H. notes: "Could not find a site in the camp itself, but many pull off on the way up. We found a great spot about 1/2 mile back down the access road and spent a couple of beautiful days. Hardly a passerby."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal regulations may prohibit open flames, requiring alternative cooking methods. Randy C. observes: "There is a fire pit. Access is easy on and off from a gravel road. Campers, RVs, and people with tents can easily use this site. No facilities."
