Dispersed camping near Paradise, Utah offers campers access to multiple alpine environments within Cache National Forest at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 feet. The surrounding Wasatch Mountains provide numerous camping options across varied terrain with creek access and mountain views. The area experiences warm summer days with temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cool nights dropping to 45-55°F even in summer months.
What to do
Fishing access: Monte Cristo area provides multiple fishing spots within a short drive from dispersed camping locations. "We came during a week day and the whole site was empty! Very quiet, very pretty, and very colorful," notes Karson M. about Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
Winter camping: Green Canyon offers winter accommodations for cold-weather enthusiasts. The yurt "can sleep 12, on four twin over full bunk beds. There's a cooking area, table, pots and pans, and of course a pot belly stove to keep it nice and warm," according to Steven E. who visited Green Canyon Yurt after Christmas.
Swimming at Bear Lake: Located about 45 minutes from Paradise, Bear Lake offers swimming options with shallow entry points. One camper at Bear Lake State Park Campground describes the water as "crystal clear turquoise blue" where "the water depth is super gradual - it'll take 50-60 yards to get waist deep."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: The Cache National Forest Bridger Campground provides "spacious and not too crowded" sites according to Becky J., who adds there are "lots of hiking spots" at this established campground.
Fall colors: For stunning foliage, campers recommend visiting in September. Colyer D. writes about Monte Cristo: "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."
Creek access: Several camping areas provide direct access to creek frontage. Brendan J. describes Smithfield Dispersed Campsite as "a very pretty canyon with a creek running through it" with spots that "would only work for one or two tents or maybe a couple of hammocks."
Seasonal water levels: Bear Lake's beaches vary significantly by season. Brendan A. advises, "Beautiful lake, nice beaches, but only if you go in the late summer or fall. Spring runoff makes this lake rise significantly, which completely submerged the beach we were playing on."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many dispersed camping areas have no cellular connectivity. Hannah M. mentions that at Curtis Creek/Arbs Basin "it's very quiet, barely any people. There's man made firepits made out of rocks of people who have stayed here... There's no cell service."
Early arrival recommended: Campsite availability can be limited, particularly on weekends. "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," warns Bryce R. about Monte Cristo.
Road conditions: Many access roads are unpaved and can be challenging for larger vehicles. Brian C. notes that at Monte Cristo, one site is "about 1/4 mile down a dirt road from Hwy 39" and "not for large RVs. Our 17 ft trailer with 4x4 was tricky to get into the spot because the loop was so small."
Tips for camping with families
Tent options for families: The best tent camping near Paradise, Utah for families includes sites with natural features for children to explore. Hobble Campground offers established sites with picnic tables and toilet facilities, making it suitable for families with younger children.
Shallow swimming: Bear Lake State Park provides family-friendly swimming with gradually sloping beaches. Danielle T. confirms: "The water is perfect and so blue. Really earns the title of the Caribbean of the Rockies. Had my own trail straight to the water facing the sunset."
Avoid crowds: For family camping with fewer people, weekdays are optimal. One camper at Monte Cristo noted, "We came during a week day and the whole site was empty," which allows families more space and privacy.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed camping areas near Paradise have tight access roads unsuitable for larger RVs. Sarah C. warns about Secluded Maple Creek River Bottoms: "No warning that the road narrows with no turn around about a mile into the campground, or the trees are overgrown which scratched up my sides."
Boondocking spots: RVers with smaller setups can find suitable locations if prepared for primitive camping. "There are many other boondocking spots in this area," notes Brian C. about Monte Cristo, adding that the spots work best for smaller rigs with four-wheel drive capability.
Leveling considerations: Most dispersed sites in the mountains require leveling equipment. "Sites are pretty level," reports John M. about Bear Lake State Park, which offers electric hookups with some water access and a dump station for RVs.
