Dispersed camping near Park City, Utah ranges in elevation from 7,000 to 10,000 feet, creating dramatic temperature swings between day and night even in summer months. The area's access roads often close from late October through mid-May depending on snowfall amounts. Seasonal closures affect the majority of high-elevation sites, with many roads becoming impassable after early fall storms.
What to do
Paddle on alpine lakes: Visit Pittsburg Lake Dispersed for water activities. The 1.5-mile hike with 1,500 ft elevation gain leads to a small alpine lake perfect for fishing or paddleboarding. "I was able to relax and float and tool around. You can't go very far but being on the water is always a good time," notes one camper who carried their paddleboard to the lake.
Mountain peak access: From Twin Peaks Wilderness Area - Dispersed you can tackle multiple summits. "If you want to hike then they are Broads Fork Twin Peaks, Sunrise Peak, and Dromedary Peak. All of which require no more than class 4 scrambling," explains a visitor. Remember to camp at least half a mile from any road in this wilderness area.
Stargazing opportunities: Higher elevations and minimal light pollution make for excellent night sky viewing. At Pittsburg Lake, one camper reported, "The stargazing was very Exquisite." Clear mountain air at 8,000+ feet provides visibility of the Milky Way on moonless nights.
What campers like
Proximity to Salt Lake City: The Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts location offers wilderness experiences with urban convenience. "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," shares one backpacker heading to nearby lake destinations.
Established fire rings: Many dispersed sites come with previously built fire pits. At Mineral Basin Dispersed, a camper noted, "As with other primitive camping, there is nothing here with regards to amenities with the exception of an established fire ring. Our site did have a nice flat spot dug out but that may not be the case for all the spots."
Wildlife sightings: The wilderness areas around Park City provide opportunities to spot native animals. Twin Peaks Wilderness campers report, "Beware of moose as they are commonly spotted hanging out in the lakes near the meadows." Similarly, at Salamander Flat, visitors mention, "A couple of deer wandered right through our campsite."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many roads to camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. For Cascade Springs Dispersed Site, a recent visitor warns, "The road is a bit rough, mainly due to water runoff but nothing too bad." Another camper adds, "This season there are some fairly deep ruts especially as you get to less popular roads and closer to campsites."
Seasonal timing: Road access varies dramatically throughout the year. One Mineral Basin camper reported, "We couldn't access early June road still closed past the ski resort." Similarly, another notes, "Road closure affected many sites in July."
Permit requirements: Despite being free, most dispersed camping requires permits or passes. At Millcreek Canyon, "There is a toll per vehicle to enter the canyon, but this can definitely be worth it because this is one of the only canyons that allows dogs!" For Salamander Flat, "It is an honor system kind of park permit. They ask you to scan the QR code or pay at the self pay station. $10 for a 3day pass, $20 for a 7 day pass."
Tips for camping with families
Easy access sites: For family camping with younger children, choose locations with shorter approaches. Dutchman Mine Flats offers walk-in sites close to parking. "You cannot car-camp as there is wooden fence blocking off the parking area," notes a visitor, but the short distance makes it manageable for kids carrying light gear.
Insect preparedness: Mountain areas experience heavy mosquito seasons, especially during snowmelt. Pack appropriate repellent and clothing. One Cascade Springs camper shared their experience: "We ended up bailing out and headed back down the mountain because of the mosquitos. I've never seen anything like it! We arrived around dusk and the mosquitoes were on us like starving piranhas."
Noise considerations: Some areas experience significant traffic from recreational vehicles. At Salamander Flat, one camper observed, "This seems to be a local hangout for the youngsters as well. They were not a bother to us however, they were letting loose, having a good time at their site. They left around 11 or so."
Tips from RVers
Turn radius challenges: Forest roads often feature tight switchbacks unsuitable for larger trailers. At Cascade Springs, one visitor cautions, "Don't come with a trailer. Just don't do it. Sure is pretty but we never made it to the top."
Length restrictions: Many access roads cannot accommodate longer vehicles. For smaller trailers, Mineral Basin Dispersed camping notes, "We have seen tents as well as trailers camping in this area (as long as you are comfortable pulling your trailer on unpaved mountain roads)."
Ground conditions: RV camping requires finding level parking surfaces. For Albion Basin - Dispersed, a visitor advises, "I assessed the topography at the lake... and found a clearing away from the trail, nestled between boulders." These areas typically require small, nimble trailers rather than large motorhomes.
