Dispersed camping near Ogden, Utah offers rustic sites primarily along Forest Service roads at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 9,000 feet. The Wasatch range receives significant snowfall, with higher elevation sites often inaccessible until late May or early June. Temperature variations can exceed 30°F between day and night, even during summer months.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Access popular routes from Green Canyon Dispersed Campground where numerous single-track options exist. One camper noted, "Tons of little spots along a gravel road. Fire rings and multiple clean bathrooms are available. Also tons of trails and mountain bikers."
Target shooting: Several areas permit target practice, but require proper backstops and cleanup. At Skull Valley Rd Dispersed Camping, a visitor shared, "This location is also right in an outdoor shooting range with multiple spots so that's a plus if you're looking for entertainment."
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and dusk offer the best opportunities for moose and deer sightings. A visitor at Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin mentioned, "It's very quiet, barely any people. There's man made firepits made out of rocks of people who have stayed here."
What campers like
Proximity to town: Some primitive camping areas sit surprisingly close to urban centers. A Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping visitor explained, "Millcreek is a great escape from the city. 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 areas and water."
Fall colors: September through mid-October transforms many sites with golden aspens. At Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo, a camper shared, "We could not have asked for a more perfect spot. The views were immaculate, the sites were very spread out, it was the end of September and all the leaves were changing."
Low-cost alternative: Most sites remain free, though some require permits. One camper at Green Canyon Dispersed Campground stated, "Permit fee is $10 for 3 days. We had a quiet (only a couple of other campers further up) and enjoyable overnight visit but road was quite icy."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many sites require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain. A visitor to Spiral Jetty explained, "Took close to two hours from Salt Lake City, once you turn off I-15 you've still got close to an hour. The road wasn't too bad, pretty wash boarded but fairly certain most cars could do it if they are careful around a couple of spots."
Weekend crowds: Summer weekends fill quickly, especially at sites closer to urban areas. A Monte Cristo camper advised, "There are tons of free site all up and down the main road. The only problem is it is busy if you leave on Friday plan to get there by 3 at the latest. Spots fill quick."
Site cleanliness: Some areas experience litter issues from target shooting and parties. At Skull Valley Road Dispersed Camping, a camper reported, "My favorite place to camp. Other campers are respectful at night and friendly during the day. Nights are quiet and the moon is usually super bright."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose established areas with fire rings and flat tent spaces. A visitor to Green Canyon Dispersed noted, "About 15 mins outside of Logan up a beautiful canyon. Headed up around 4pm on a Saturday during Memorial Day weekend so didn't have high hopes but found a spot with a fire ring almost immediately!"
Weather preparation: Pack for temperature swings of 30-40°F between day and night. A Curtis Creek visitor mentioned, "We stayed here for the night on our rooftop tent. It's chilly and very pretty around. Nice view of the sunset. There's no cell service."
Water sources: Bring all drinking water as most sites lack reliable sources. At Millcreek Canyon, a camper reported, "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."
Tips from RVers
Turnaround space: Most forest roads lack designated turnarounds for larger rigs. One Monte Cristo visitor advised, "Two nice boondocking spots just a short drive on a tight dirt road off the highway. The campsite on the right is bigger, the one on the left is very small."
Leveling challenges: Many sites sit on uneven terrain requiring blocks and levelers. A Skull Valley camper noted, "We brought a 30' RV with a lifted Ram 2500 and had no problem driving over the washouts."
Seasonal access: Higher elevation sites remain snowbound until late May. A Green Canyon visitor warned, "Road to dispersed camping is closed Dec 1 - April 15. Permit fee is $10 for 3 days."
