Marjum Pass Dispersed Camping sits between 4,500-6,000 feet elevation in Utah's West Desert region, characterized by high desert terrain with significant temperature fluctuations. The area experiences hot summer days exceeding 90°F and cold nights, with minimal precipitation throughout the year. Winter conditions can include snow and below-freezing temperatures, making spring and fall the most popular camping seasons.
What to do
Fossil hunting near Marjum Canyon: The area contains world-class trilobite fossils accessible to amateur collectors. According to a visitor at Fish Lake National Forest Campsite, "Lots of places to get back in the junioers a lil and have a nice private place to sleep," making it suitable for establishing a base camp for fossil expeditions.
Cave exploration: Visit the historic hermit cave in the side canyon. A camper noted, "The coolest thing about this area is the hermit cave a little further back in the side canyon where the gps dot is. A hermit lived here for 20 years and according to my geology teacher would clear debris off the old highway and sometimes block it when he wanted company."
Night sky observation: The remote location provides exceptional stargazing opportunities with minimal light pollution. A camper at Maple Hollow described, "at night the stars where so beautiful while sitting around the campfire and being together while roasting marsh mellows."
What campers like
Geological formations: The area's unique landscape features limestone cliffs and desert vistas. One reviewer mentioned, "Home to one of the biggest cliffs in North America and you've probably never heard of it. Notch Peak is just to the south of the campground. And has ~2000' of vertical rise and lies 4000' above the surrounding valley."
Privacy and solitude: The dispersed nature of camping allows for isolation. A visitor at Fish Lake National Forest Campsite shared, "We pulled in after sunset to stop before going all the way north to SLC. The road was pretty doable in our truck, but it think it would be easy in a sedan too. 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."
Accessibility from Interstate: The area provides convenient wilderness access. One camper noted, "Perfect place to stop for the night. Road is fine. A few ruts. Super quiet," while another mentioned it was "Easy to get to from the I-15."
What you should know
Safety precautions: Due to extreme isolation, emergency communication devices are essential. A reviewer warned, "Just make sure to bring a gps locator or satellite phone because no one gets service out here, oh and lots of water!"
Water requirements: All water must be brought in for both humans and animals. At Marjum Pass Dispersed Camping, a visitor explicitly stated, "No Water, No Shade, No Wood," highlighting the need for complete self-sufficiency.
Vehicle considerations: Road conditions vary seasonally and may limit accessibility. A camper observed, "Camped on the Western opening of Marjum Canyon. Drove through the canyon a few times. Dispersed camping and small pull-offs all throughout. As you exit the Canyon heading West, there are pull offs on both sides of the dirt road. Some areas may need high clearance vehicles to get over."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for potential wildlife encounters. A camper at Fish Lake National Forest Campsite warned, "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."
Pack for temperature extremes: Bring both warm and cool weather clothing due to significant day-night temperature variations. A visitor mentioned, "Super quiet despite being so close to the interstate," indicating the need for self-sufficient comfort in this remote area.
Alternative facilities: For equestrian camping near Oasis, Utah with families, consider Maple Hollow for access to basic amenities. A reviewer noted, "The bathrooms where nice as well even though they didn't flush they where nice and didn't have that smell that some of them do. The water was nice and cold which made washing your face exhilarating to start my morning."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: When planning equestrian camping trips near Oasis, Utah, carefully evaluate potential sites. One camper observed, "There are several fire ring/picnic table spots in the campground. Maple trees, evergreens and oak trees throughout. Beautiful fresh air. Plenty of shade."
Road grade considerations: Be aware of elevation changes on access roads. A reviewer at Maple Hollow cautioned, "Much bigger climb than expected, so if towing a heavier trailer be aware. Gravel road is well maintained with minimal washboard. Limited space for small trailers/campers. Good for campervans or tent campers."
Alternative dispersed options: Consider adjacent areas if designated sites are full. A visitor shared, "5 mile rough gravel road for access. 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."
