Best Dispersed Camping near Orem, UT

The Wasatch Mountains surrounding Orem, Utah feature predominantly dispersed camping options on public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. Within a 30-mile radius, campers will find sites like Squaw Peak Road Dispersed near Provo and Cascade Springs Dispersed Site, which offer primitive camping experiences with established fire rings but minimal amenities. Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area, located near Spanish Fork, provides open meadows suitable for both tent and RV camping without designated sites. Most dispersed areas near Orem follow similar patterns: free camping with 14-day stay limits, existing fire rings, and requirements to pack out all waste.

Road conditions present significant challenges for accessing many camping areas in the region. As one camper noted about Cascade Springs, "The road is atrocious. Don't come unless you have some serious high clearance 4WD vehicle or you will bottom out and destroy your vehicle." Many sites require navigating unpaved forest roads with varying degrees of maintenance. Weather patterns affect accessibility, particularly during spring runoff when roads may become impassable or during summer monsoon season when flash flooding is possible. Cell service is typically limited or nonexistent, with one reviewer mentioning, "Download a map prior to entering Hobble Creek as you lose reception at the beginning." Permit requirements vary by location, with some areas requiring recreation passes while others are completely free.

Mountain views and water features rank among the most appreciated aspects of camping near Orem. Campers frequently mention panoramic vistas of Mount Timpanogos and peaceful creekside sites. "The sites closest to the little creek have the most shade," notes one reviewer of Skyline Drive camping areas. Wildlife sightings, including deer, elk, and occasionally moose, enhance the experience at higher elevations. Seasonal considerations affect both crowds and conditions, with summer weekends drawing significant numbers to accessible areas. Several reviewers mention concerns about trash left by previous visitors, highlighting the importance of Leave No Trace practices. Off-road vehicle traffic is common in many areas, creating noise that may affect those seeking solitude.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Orem, Utah (69)

    1. Squaw Peak Road Dispersed

    14 Reviews
    Provo, UT
    5 miles

    "This site is deep past the meadows near square peak. You continue to follow the dirt road in and on your left is a small depression in the land with a fire pit and ample space for tents or hammocks."

    "Sound carries from other nearby sites and it is close to the road so passing vehicles create noise, but the quality of the area makes up for it."

    2. Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    19 Reviews
    Saratoga Springs, UT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "Great option just south of salt lake. The lake and Mountain View are beautiful! Pretty flat, the road in is fairly easy."

    "Landed with large windows facing lake, lovely.

    Starlink is a little slower, but maybe cos I am roaming. 60 meg down, 7 or 8 meg up."

    3. Miners Canyon BLM

    11 Reviews
    Saratoga Springs, UT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "Tents, pillows, sleeping bags, glass, etc."

    "I arrived in the evening and was greeted with an incredible view: a vast lake backed by snowcapped mountains glowing in the light from the setting sun; the lights from Provo, the city across the lake,"

    4. Salamander Flat

    8 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    11 miles
    Website

    $10 / night

    "My boyfriend and I car camped here for the first time and it was great! There are multiple spots to set up camp with private fire pits and trails nearby."

    "I actually stayed a bit earlier on (at a trailhead parking lot; didn’t see any signs that said I couldn’t) down the road because this section of the road was closed and I just have to say what a fantastic"

    5. Cascade Springs Dispersed Site

    8 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    13 miles
    Website

    "The views are great but the road is definitely washed out. You will need 4WD and high clearance to pass through the washouts and rocks which start near the entrance and go all the way to the top."

    "There was a weird spot when Google maps told us to go right (staying on the paved road) while there was an "alternate" route up a dirt road to the coordinates on the dyrt."

    6. Sawmill Picnic

    4 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    11 miles
    Website

    "Second all slots are extremely close to Alpine road. Wonderful day spot, bummer we couldn’t stay the night!"

    7. Mineral Basin Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Alta, UT
    18 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."

    8. Dispersed Camping Willow Spring (Wasatch)

    11 Reviews
    Wallsburg, UT
    20 miles

    "Campground Review: In my attempt to explore as many areas in Utah as I can, I came across this wonderful dispersed camping off Highway 40, south of Heber City toward Main Canyon. "

    "Great dispersed camping area with plenty of room! 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!"

    9. Soldier's Pass Utah Backcountry

    6 Reviews
    Eagle Mountain, UT
    16 miles

    "Set up was easy, drove past the BLM sign about half a mile and stayed on a flat open area. Mosquitos were terrible, bring bug spray! Happy camping!"

    10. Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area

    28 Reviews
    Mapleton, UT
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 798-3571

    "This is a great spot just a about 2 miles off the main highway. It’s paved until you get to the campground turn off which is a good dirt road. Wide open space with tons of options to tent or RV."

    "Lots of places to pick from but only a couple trees providing shade. Access road is well maintained and low clearance friendly"

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Showing results 1-10 of 69 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Orem, UT

234 Reviews of 69 Orem Campgrounds



Guide to Orem

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Orem, Utah, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, these spots offer a perfect escape for adventurers.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Orem, Utah

  • When visiting Miner's Canyon Dispersed, be prepared for rough roads; a high-clearance vehicle is recommended to navigate the terrain.
  • Always carry out what you bring in, as some areas like Miners Canyon BLM have been affected by littering, impacting the natural beauty.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during weekends, as places like Squaw Peak Road Dispersed can fill up quickly.

Dispersed campers should check out Miners Canyon BLM

  • This area offers a variety of camping spots that are well-spaced, allowing for a more private experience away from other campers.
  • Be cautious of the lake's condition; swimming is not recommended due to reported pollution, as noted by visitors at Miners Canyon BLM.
  • The scenic views of Utah Lake from Miners Canyon BLM provide a stunning backdrop for your camping experience.

Enjoy hiking and nature while free camping near Orem

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Orem, UT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Orem, UT is Squaw Peak Road Dispersed with a 4.4-star rating from 14 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Orem, UT?

TheDyrt.com has all 69 dispersed camping locations near Orem, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.