Dispersed camping areas around Parowan, Utah range from 6,000 to 9,000 feet elevation across Dixie National Forest. The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with nighttime temperatures frequently dropping below 40°F even during summer months. Campers should prepare for limited cell service, particularly in canyon areas and remote forest roads.
What to do
Dark sky viewing: Candy Loop Camp offers exceptional stargazing conditions due to minimal light pollution. "Super quiet and was outside burn restriction areas so we had a good fire," reports Colin M., who reminds campers about temperature variations: "Was in the 30s at night in June so be prepared!"
Hiking to waterfalls: Forest Rd 294 Dispersed provides convenient access to nearby hiking trails. "Close to Bryce but also away from having a camper right next to you," notes Lea S., who appreciates the balance of accessibility and privacy. The area connects to several day hikes ranging from 1-5 miles in difficulty.
Wildlife observation: Great Western Trail Dispersed offers opportunities for wildlife viewing in early mornings and evenings. "The campground is beautiful with woods surrounding our site. Lots of wildlife walking around our tent area at night," shares Henry W. Morning birding is particularly productive during spring months.
What campers like
Proximity to national parks: Many dispersed campers value the Forest Rd 294 Dispersed - Dixie National Forest as a base camp for exploring nearby attractions. "In grid, but away. I love camping here because it is so close to Bryce but also away from having a camper right next to you," explains Lea S.
Natural surroundings: The wooded areas provide welcome shade and scenic beauty. At Uinta Flat Dispersed Camp, Richard D. notes, "Road in is smooth and mostly gravel. Sites are beautiful and in the trees." This camp offers good flat spots for tent placement.
Privacy between sites: Compared to developed campgrounds, dispersed camping offers more space between neighbors. "Standard dispersed camping, non designated camping. Level spots and good tree coverage. Minimal road noise and 5G service on T-Mobile," reports Connor M. about Candy Loop Camp.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Be aware that fire regulations change frequently in this region, particularly during dry summer months. At Great Western Trail Dispersed, Kate L. advises: "Due to fire restrictions, you need to drive 1173 or other older interstate dirt roads to find eligible camping areas."
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed sites vary significantly in quality. "The dirt access roads are generally passable with standard vehicles when dry, though high clearance is beneficial in some sections," according to recent visitors. Carefully assess road conditions before committing to remote sites.
Seasonal closures: Some areas may be temporarily closed or restricted. Several reviewers reported Great Western Trail being closed during certain periods: "This place was closed to camping September 7th unless the map took us to the wrong place," notes Kaelyn T.
Tips for camping with families
Flat camping areas: For the best tent camping near Parowan, Utah with children, seek out level ground. At Kolob Terrace Road, Kevin T. reports: "We were a little cautious after reading some of the other reviews but we had a great nights sleep here. A large space, others joined us as the night went on and we weren't bothered by noise."
Water access: Camps near streams provide both practical benefits and entertainment for kids. "There is a little river that is so nice to go to sleep to and it is very quiet," shares Haley P. about Kolob Terrace Road. Remember to filter all water from natural sources.
Emergency planning: Cell coverage is spotty throughout dispersed camping areas. Greg L. notes about Kolob Road BLM Dispersed: "No Cell service as in a dead zone hole." Always have a communication plan and emergency contact information when camping with families.
Tips from RVers
Turnaround space: Kolob Road BLM Dispersed has limitations for larger vehicles. "Strongly do NOT recommend TTs or any RV at this BLM spot due to steep downhill rd and no turnarounds! Tent or van nomads only due to no tt turnarounds!" cautions Greg L.
Campsite selection: RV campers should arrive early to secure suitable spots. "We got there at night and woke up to a great view! We were the only ones in the area and at night the stars were so bright and beautiful," shares Nathaniel F. about Forest Rd 294 Dispersed.
Level parking: Look for established sites with minimal slope. Charles K. notes at Kolob Terrace Road: "After unsuccessfully navigating an access point further down Kolob Terr road, we back tracked to an open field just off route 9. No trees or coverage, but enough space to spread out. Small campers to class A's are here."
