Best Dispersed Camping near Panguitch, UT

Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Panguitch, Utah, primarily within Dixie National Forest. Tom Best Spring Road (FR117) offers numerous free primitive sites scattered among beautiful Ponderosa pines. The Forest Service road is generally well-maintained with many dirt roads branching off to individual campsites. According to camper Susan L., "If you're sensitive to dust, choose a site further off the access road as there is lots of dust kicked up every time someone drove in or out on the gravel." These areas provide convenient access to Bryce Canyon National Park, typically within a 10-15 minute drive.

No facilities are available at these dispersed sites. Campers must bring all necessary supplies including water, food, and waste disposal containers. Fire restrictions are common and strictly enforced; always check current regulations before planning to have a campfire. The 16-day stay limit is actively monitored by rangers who patrol the area regularly. Cell service is generally reliable for most major carriers throughout the region. Bryce Canyon City, approximately 10 miles away, provides the nearest amenities including a dump station, potable water, and fuel at the Sinclair station.

The terrain features a mix of meadows and pine forests with relatively flat ground suitable for various camping setups. RVs and travel trailers can access many sites, though high-clearance vehicles navigate the roads more comfortably. Wildlife sightings are common, with campers reporting cattle, pronghorn, chipmunks, and various bird species. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with summer daytime temperatures averaging 85°F and nights cooling to the 50s. As one experienced camper noted, "This is at altitude. Be prepared. Drink lots of water, take your time, don't overextend yourself if you're not acclimated." The area's elevation makes proper hydration and sun protection essential.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Panguitch, Utah (94)

    1. Tom Best Spring Road FR117 Dispersed - Dixie National Forest

    71 Reviews
    Tropic, UT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 865-3700

    "October 15, 2020

    We wanted to be close to Bryce Canyon but not in all of the hub and chaos of people. This location is about a 10 minute drive away from Bryce. "

    "Plenty of free camping opportunities as you drive down the dirt road. Space between sites is ideal so noise isn’t a problem."

    2. Toms Best Spring Road - Dispersed Camping

    30 Reviews
    Fern Ridge Lake, UT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 865-3700

    "Dispersed camping in the beautiful Ponderosa pines of Dixie National Forest. The Forest Service road is easy to navigate. There are many dirt roads branching off of it with sites to choose from."

    "Right past beautiful Red Canyon coming from Panguitch on 12. Turn left on  road also call 117. Lots of spots.  Some single and some more like a campground area. "

    3. FS #117 Rd Dispersed Camping

    24 Reviews
    Fern Ridge Lake, UT
    12 miles

    "This is a great location before Bryce NP. Easy access in our 4runner with rooftop tent and lots of open space. It was very windy, but as long as you situate yourself back in the trees it is minimal."

    "Great place to camp overnight if you’re looking for somewhere close to Bryce with a lot of open room."

    4. FR 090 - dispersed camping

    33 Reviews
    Fern Ridge Lake, UT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 865-3700

    "We rented a van from Escape camper vans and this spot of easy to find and get to! We saw a lot of people with campers and vans."

    "The road is a bit bumpy, but we were fine taking our time in our camper van. Lots of space between sites. The trees are gorgeous. & it’s super close to the entrance of Bryce Canyon National Park."

    5. Great Western Trail Dispersed

    27 Reviews
    Fern Ridge Lake, UT
    17 miles

    "We decided to ask a park ranger where else we could camp, he handed us a map (in the pictures) and sent us on our way."

    "Due to fire restrictions, you need to drive 1173 or other older interstate dirt roads to find eligible camping areas."

    6. Tom's Best Spring Road Dixie National Forest

    11 Reviews
    Fern Ridge Lake, UT
    12 miles

    "Nice paved bike path right at the entrance of the dispersed camping area. We drove in about a mile on a nice gravel main road. Found a nice secluded spot about 100 yards off the main road."

    "This continues to be one of our favorite boondocking sites even after four years on the road. This time we visited in late October/ Early November."

    7. Casto Canyon Rd Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Panguitch, UT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 644-1200

    "On Google maps it shows a couple of RVs parked here so it's plenty big enough for that. Fairly flat as well

    This is a big off-road area but so far we've only seen a handful of people drive by."

    "i read that toms spring is closed on another site, and red canyon only has a couple sites so decided to come here since lots of sites along 12 miles of blm land!"

    8. Dixie National Forest Dispersed Camping Area

    9 Reviews
    Fern Ridge Lake, UT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 865-3700

    "This area is great for dispersed camping near Red Canyon and before you get to Bryce Canyon NP. Plenty of dispersed camping spots. There are no restrooms, water or electricity."

    "Easy access from Hwy 12. There are sites right along FR 117 and there are several spur roads with sites. Some of the spur roads have rough spots. I was towing a 15' camper, able to get around ok."

    9. Losee Canyon

    4 Reviews
    Dixie National Forest, UT
    7 miles

    "Lots of sites, some with shade. Outhouse at trail head just down the road."

    "Lots of sites, great views trails for hiking and horseback near by"

    10. Forest Rd 294 Dispersed - Dixie National Forest

    7 Reviews
    Fern Ridge Lake, UT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 676-9300

    "I turned down this dirt road and stopped before reaching the mark on the map. Still in view of the road but secluded. Evidence of grazing cattle."

    "I love camping here because it is so close to Bryce but also away from having a camper right next to you."

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Showing results 1-10 of 94 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Panguitch, UT

493 Reviews of 94 Panguitch Campgrounds



Guide to Panguitch

Experience the beauty of nature with dispersed camping near Panguitch, Utah. This area offers a variety of stunning locations where you can set up camp for free, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and the tranquility of the outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Tom Best Spring Road FR117

  • Located just a short drive from Bryce Canyon, Tom Best Spring Road FR117 provides ample space for both tents and RVs, making it a versatile option for all campers.
  • Visitors have praised the area for its privacy and beautiful views, with many sites nestled among trees that offer shade and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • The site allows campfires, so you can enjoy cozy evenings under the stars, making it a perfect spot for those looking to unwind after a day of exploring.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Panguitch, Utah

  • When camping at Toms Best Spring Road, be prepared for a lack of amenities; there are no bathrooms or trash disposal, so plan to pack out what you bring in.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak seasons, as this area can get busy with fellow campers looking for a slice of nature.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife; many campers have reported seeing deer and other animals in the vicinity, adding to the natural experience.

Enjoy outdoor activities while free camping near Panguitch

  • The Great Western Trail Dispersed area is ideal for hiking enthusiasts, with access to numerous trails that showcase the stunning landscapes of Bryce Canyon National Park.
  • For those interested in stargazing, the remote locations around Panguitch offer minimal light pollution, making it a fantastic place to observe the night sky.
  • If you're into photography, the scenic views and unique rock formations near FS #117 Rd Dispersed Camping provide endless opportunities to capture the beauty of the Utah wilderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Panguitch, UT is Tom Best Spring Road FR117 Dispersed - Dixie National Forest with a 4.7-star rating from 71 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 94 dispersed camping locations near Panguitch, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.