Dispersed camping near West Bountiful, Utah offers backcountry sites throughout the Wasatch Mountains at elevations ranging from 6,000 to 10,000 feet. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with summer temperatures reaching 90°F at lower elevations while high mountain sites remain cooler. Many roads to remote camping locations don't open until July, a critical timing consideration when planning trips to higher-elevation sites.
What to do
Hiking from camp: Multiple trail systems connect with dispersed camping areas, particularly in Millcreek Canyon Backcountry where trails lead to alpine meadows. One camper noted, "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 ares and water." Another visitor adds that "There are numerous primitive campsites scattered along the ridges. Everytime we come here we also see moose and deer."
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and evening offer prime wildlife spotting opportunities in Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts. A review mentions, "We love Millcreek Canyon for camping, hiking, or even just going up for dinner at their day use spots. Pet friendly. One of our families favorite canyons. We take tubes and float in areas of the river." For serious wildlife enthusiasts, higher elevation camps provide sightings of larger mammals.
Summit hikes: From Lake Desolation Primitive Sites, adventurous campers can access mountain peaks with minimal crowds. As one hiker experienced, "We set out before dawn the next morning to catch the sunrise from Square Top Peak. If you continue along the Lake Desolation trail to the northeast, it joins the Wasatch Crest which leads to stunning views of the Wasatch Range."
What campers like
Alpine lake access: Dispersed camping areas near higher elevations provide opportunities to camp near secluded lakes. At Albion Basin - Dispersed, a camper reported, "The place we like to set up is in a cozy secluded meadow that sits directly below Mt Wolverine and Tuscarora. The hike to this site is around a mile but you can camp anywhere in the area as long as it is a half mile from any road." Another visitor experienced, "I packed some potables in a bear can because I was unfamiliar with the area's ecology, but this is not necessary as bears do not have a presence in this area."
Stream-side sites: Several backcountry camping options in Mineral Basin feature small streams that provide both ambiance and practical benefits. A camper described, "The campsite we chose was off a small spur road which offered privacy and was along a small stream. The flowing water provided some great ambiance and white noise while we slept."
Stargazing opportunities: The elevation and distance from city lights make free camping near West Bountiful ideal for night sky viewing. One visitor to Albion Basin noted, "The night was quiet and peaceful, the silence periodically broken by a gentle breeze. If weather permits, leaving off the rain fly provides an exquisite view of the milky way as you drift off to sleep."
What you should know
Seasonal road closures: Many dispersed sites have limited accessibility depending on the time of year. At Mineral Basin Dispersed, a camper warned, "We couldn't access early June road still closed past the ski resort." Another visitor noted, "We came up looking for a last minute site on the 4th. Most of the road was closed and we grabbed the last spot."
Permit requirements: Several wilderness areas near West Bountiful require permits for overnight stays. Millcreek Canyon has specific requirements, with a visitor noting, "Camping doesnt open until July 1st so take that into account." Another warned, "Be careful there is a 5$ per car fee sneaking at the entrance."
Site conditions: Free camping areas sometimes suffer from overuse. A camper at Mineral Basin reported, "Loads of ATVs and lots of trash. That said, it was the 4th." Some locations may have restrictions on fires during dry seasons, particularly at higher elevations.
Tips for camping with families
Short hikes with rewards: When camping with children, look for sites with short hikes to interesting destinations. At Millcreek Canyon, a family reported, "We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river. Just a fun time." Another camper suggested, "Going back to the trailhead for Cecret Lake you can reach the namesake lake within a half mile which is loaded with hundreds of cute little salamanders!"
Close-to-home options: For families wanting to test backpacking without committing to a long journey, Twin Peaks Wilderness Area - Dispersed offers relatively accessible backcountry. A camper shared, "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids often enjoy spotting wildlife, which is abundant in the mountains near West Bountiful. Plan morning and evening hikes when animals are most active, with one visitor reporting, "Beware of moose as they are commonly spotted hanging out in the lakes near the meadows."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many dispersed camping areas near West Bountiful have restricted vehicle access. At the Bountiful B Dispersed site, a visitor noted, "The road up takes about 25 or 30 minutes to get to the coords. Its a bit rough but if you have awd or 4wd its no problem."
Cell service considerations: For RVers who need connectivity, service varies significantly by location and carrier. A camper reported about Bountiful B Dispersed, "I have Verizon and had coverage off and on, its enough to send texts but not much more." This helps those who need to stay connected for work or emergencies.
Site selection: RVers should scout locations before committing to a spot. Look for areas with established fire rings and flat parking. At Middle Fork Conservation Area, a camper advised, "It is down a dirt road in a valley surrounded by cattle and deer and elk. Beautiful sunset and moonrise."
