Top Free Dispersed Camping near Payson, UT

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Payson, UT (47)

    Camper-submitted photo from Squaw Peak Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Squaw Peak Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Squaw Peak Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Squaw Peak Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Squaw Peak Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Squaw Peak Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Miners Canyon BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Miners Canyon BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Miners Canyon BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Miners Canyon BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Miners Canyon BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Miners Canyon BLM

    2. Miners Canyon BLM

    9 Reviews
    24 Photos
    157 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Sheep Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Sheep Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Sheep Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Sheep Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Sheep Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Sheep Creek

    3. Sheep Creek

    10 Reviews
    24 Photos
    106 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Willow Spring (Not in Moab)
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Willow Spring (Not in Moab)
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Willow Spring (Not in Moab)
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Willow Spring (Not in Moab)
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Willow Spring (Not in Moab)
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Willow Spring (Not in Moab)
    Camper-submitted photo from Solder's Pass Utah Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Solder's Pass Utah Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Solder's Pass Utah Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Solder's Pass Utah Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Solder's Pass Utah Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Solder's Pass Utah Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyline Drive
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyline Drive
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyline Drive
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyline Drive
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyline Drive
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyline Drive
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat

    7. Salamander Flat

    8 Reviews
    14 Photos
    409 Saves

    Salamander Flat trail connects the Timpooneke trail head with the Salamander Flat dispersed camping area and the Pine hollow trail. The trail starts by crossing a stream, then travels through large stands of fir trees, and crosses the road approximately 1 mile from the trailhead. The Salamander Flat dispersed camping sites and Junction with the Willow Hollow trail is .5 miles farther up the trail. From the dispersed sites, it is another .6 miles to the junction with the Pine Hollow trail #047. Trail users should be aware of the high level of use that this trail receives, and should expect to see each type of user group on any given day. This trail is subject to a wet trail closure order during the spring and early summer. These closures help to protect and sustain the trail during wet periods. The trail will be signed as closed to all uses except hiking when these closures are in effect. Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest outside of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no toilets, no treated water, and no fire grates are provided. Camping in dispersed areas on the Forest is allowed for fourteen (14) days in any thirty (30) day consecutive period. Campers must move off Forest after reaching the 14-day limit. The stay limit also applies to all camping equipment (tents, chairs, ATVs, ATV trailers, etc.), even if used by a different person or group. Camping equipment must be removed by the end of the fourteen (14) day stay limit or the equipment may be impounded. Stay limits are implemented to reduce impacts to vegetation and wildlife habitat, as well as provide access to popular campsite areas for other visitors.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site

    8. Cascade Springs Dispersed Site

    8 Reviews
    33 Photos
    518 Saves

    Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest outside of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no toilets, no treated water, and no fire grates are provided. Camping in dispersed areas on the Forest is allowed for fourteen (14) days in any thirty (30) day consecutive period. Campers must move off Forest after reaching the 14-day limit. The stay limit also applies to all camping equipment (tents, chairs, ATVs, ATV trailers, etc.), even if used by a different person or group. Camping equipment must be removed by the end of the fourteen (14) day stay limit or the equipment may be impounded. Stay limits are implemented to reduce impacts to vegetation and wildlife habitat, as well as provide access to popular campsite areas for other visitors. There are extra responsibilities and skills that are necessary for dispersed camping. It's your responsibility to know these before you try this new experience. In most areas, dispersed camping is allowed up to 150 feet from a designated Forest Service Road, with some exceptions. Exceptions are based on protection of resources that may include water quality, soil conditions, and wildlife & fish habitat. No Dispersed camping within 100 feet of water (we recommend 200 feet). No dispersed camping where topography or existing vegetation limits vehicle travel (e.g. steep terrain, trees, brush). No dispersed camping within wet meadows or in saturated soil conditions. In these areas, walk-in tent camping and picnicking are allowed, however vehicle travel into these areas may be restricted. The public is asked to use existing pull-outs off the main road and walk in to take advantage of these areas that help provide clean water, productive soils, and habitats for fish and wildlife. Forest users can obtain Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM’s), that show where dispersed camping is allowed and roads and trails that are designated open to motorized vehicles

    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Fifth Water Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Fifth Water Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Fifth Water Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Fifth Water Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Fifth Water Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Fifth Water Hot Springs

    9. Fifth Water Hot Springs

    4 Reviews
    11 Photos
    171 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hobble Right Fork Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hobble Right Fork Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hobble Right Fork Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hobble Right Fork Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hobble Right Fork Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hobble Right Fork Dispersed

    10. Hobble Right Fork Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    11 Photos
    316 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
Showing results 1-10 of 47 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Payson

179 Reviews of 47 Payson Campgrounds


  • r
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Mountain Dispersed
    Oct. 15, 2024

    Eagle Mountain Dispersed

    Remote but hard to get to

    This is BLM. A couple of different camping sites. Most have fire rings but no water or bathrooms. You will need a 4x4 with high clearance to get up the mountain (the road is rough). There are sites at the bottom of the mountain that you can get an RV or car in but those are crowded and around the shooting range. We had a great time at the top with beautiful views and quiet. Nobody else around. oHV area too.

  • Mike
    Camper-submitted photo from Miner's Canyon Dispersed
    Oct. 3, 2024

    Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    Very quiet and secluded

    Arrived very late. Very easy to find. Directions brought us right to the location. Road was rough into the sites and were hard to determine specific sites. Ended up pulling into edge of field. Definitely a good quiet night's sleep

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Cascade Springs Dispersed Site

    Great Camping and Off-Roading

    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.

  • Maya G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Miners Canyon BLM
    Sep. 17, 2024

    Miners Canyon BLM

    It was fine

    Rough roads. The main one isn’t so bad but the side roads are awful. Tons of flies. Like actually so many. Campsites are far away from each other which was nice. Fire ring was filled with trash. Lake is disgusting, dead fish on shore and trash, don’t swim in it. An obviously “long term” resident said he wouldn’t swim in it, one of the factories on the other side of the lake dump into it.

  • Devin B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Sep. 11, 2024

    Salamander Flat

    It’s a campsite

    After a long day of travel we just wanted to get to any site and camp. This is a national forest so there is technically a park permit required. However, we have an annual park pass and they accept that as well. 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.

    The drive up to this site is winding and the cars seem to be used to driving it because they come around the corners pretty fast. Drive carefully and stay on your side of the road. It site is just after mile marker 17.

    The site is huge! Lots of space for people, cars, RVs and trailers. The road is paved until you turn in and then it’s a regular dirt road.

    The major con in this park in general is the bathrooms are yucky especially at this site.

    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.

    No service with AT&T

  • Skylar G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Cascade Springs Dispersed Site

    Best views in Utah?

    I want to start positive and say that the views are some of the best! Mt Tiponogous is in full view and the panoramic views are all great as well. It was only my group that camped up there the night we camped, but a couple people did drive by for some off road action. Speaking of off road action, the road is atrocious. Dont come unless you have some serious high clearance 4wd vehicle or you will bottom out and destroy your vehicle. I’m saying this as someone from Lake City CO who grew up driving the Alpine Loop, the road is BAD!

  • Ben H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Squaw Peak Road Dispersed
    Aug. 17, 2024

    Squaw Peak Road Dispersed

    Bumpy road

    The road leading here is very bumpy. There are two specific spots that are really bad. 4x4 is almost a requirement. I did however see some people make it up in a van so it is possible. The coordinates lead to an open field with a lot of campsites. I would suggest parking in the lot a little further ahead on the left. This road is a popular destination so people ride up and down it a lot. The views are well worth it and there is also some hiking trails around here as well. There are more dispersed camping sites further along this road. I was able to get a very spotty one bar signal of Verizon while near the coordinates.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Willow Spring (Not in Moab)
    Aug. 10, 2024

    Dispersed Camping Willow Spring (Not in Moab)

    Rocky Rough Road

    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! We have a TRX and overland camper and bottomed out on a culvert that dropped off sharply. We went to the marked location only to find a single camping spot on a moderate slope. Recommend stopping two miles earlier in the “Big Glade” meadow, flat and plenty of camping spots. We ended up a mile before that at a cross roads at 8900’. Concur with the ATv traffic from previous reviews, but overall relatively quiet

  • Elvira M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Miners Canyon BLM
    Jul. 19, 2024

    Miners Canyon BLM

    Busy

    It was very easy to find, since we could see RV since a long way down the road. We turned in and took one of the first sites though there were a lot of RVs further down.

    A lot of the RVs looked like they were laughing the 14 day limit, almost to the point we were convinced they were living at this site. There was also several people with lose dogs, which made us not wanting to go closer to the water.

    Otherwise the site itself is OK, it’s a little uneven, but we managed fine with our RV.

  • Adam J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Currant Creek Rd Dispersed
    Jul. 11, 2024

    Currant Creek Rd Dispersed

    Dispersed camping overlooking Currant Reservoir and Creek

    Plenty of dispersed spots along the ridge road. Most have easy pull in access and fire rings. Beautiful views from multiple spots along the ridge but comes with the expected exposure to wind/sun.  More privacy for the spots further along the road some nestled in beautiful aspen groves. It is a great area. We camped overnight and fly fished the currant the next day. It was July 4 weekend but still not crowded.

  • John H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Jul. 9, 2024

    Salamander Flat

    Utah has the worst system

    All the sites said no reservation, first come first served, but they were all reserved with no campers. Camp host, as usual, nowhere in sight. I've camped in 43 states for decades and Utah is easily the worst state to camp at due to this system of theirs.

    Also the drive up there is about 6 miles of winding hell with idiot children driving so fast I'm surprised there's not a death every day.

  • Adam J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping--Mill Hollow/Utah FR054
    Jul. 2, 2024

    Dispersed Camping--Mill Hollow/Utah FR054

    Amazing spots the further up you go

    Thoroughly enjoyed our stay here. Road was very accessible lower down with some more adventurous offshoots requiring higher clearance and likely 4x4. We went up an offshoot and navigated through and around some deeper ruts and snow drifts but found an amazing spot on the rim. Fewer people the more altitude we gained. Lots of spots here. Keep driving until you find one, closer in spots are usually taken up with trailers and small rvs. Highly recommend.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Uinta Campsite
    Jul. 2, 2024

    Dispersed Uinta Campsite

    Open space, nature and road noise

    Plenty of spots on an easy dirt road, campfire rings and lots of space. There's so many birds and critters so you get the nature sounds but it's close to the road so there's road noise all night. Beautiful space. I think I heard a moose in the night-possibly not, but possibly?

  • Samantha G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyline Drive
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Skyline Drive

    Great spot away from highway!

    This spot was great. We arrived at dusk and it was still easy to find, although there was a long dirt road (about 2 miles) to get to spots marked with a campfire pit. Two or three cars drove by, but it was still secluded enough that we had no worries. We found a spot by a beautiful stream with cool water. Great stargazing. Safe!

  • Lilly A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
    Jun. 22, 2024

    Cascade Springs Dispersed Site

    Beautiful but not private

    Honestly, the only saving thing about this campsite is how beautiful it is. It truly feels like you are on top of the world. But, there were many downsides and we will not be returning. First, the road to get there was horrible. Don’t go up there unless you’re ready to do some off-roading. Second, the campsite had zero shade — so make sure to bring a canopy of some sort; there are no trees around the site. Third, the campsite is all gravel, so if you have a dog, be careful they don’t burn their paws (it was hot! We had to keep our dog in our man-made shade)! Lastly, at least 20 cars drove through the campsite per day, and this seems to be a spot a lot of people stop and get out and walk around. Then, someone set up camp right next to us! So, if you truly want to primitive camp, where it’s just you and nature, and have privacy, this is not the place to go.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Miner's Canyon Dispersed
    Jun. 21, 2024

    Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    Nice free spot near Salt Lake City

    Easy drive into the area, paved road up until you turn down toward the lake. Nice gravel road for the next half mile. 6 other RVs here when I stopped on June 20th.

    A little loud from the generators but sound of waves from the lake help drown it out.

    Some established fire pits. Overall the place was clean and felt safe.

  • Lea B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area
    Apr. 27, 2024

    Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area

    Plenty of space

    I spent a night there in April 2024 during a couple days of rain. It was pretty muddy, but that was to be expected. There is space for many campers and it's an easy, paved road up to the park. Cellular was pretty strong as well.

  • Josh R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyline Drive
    Jan. 4, 2024

    Skyline Drive

    Easy to get to!

    Easy to get to and got to camp next to a stream. Was just passing through so this was a great spot for the night.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Nov. 22, 2023

    Salamander Flat

    Breathtaking view!

    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 view! The mountains up here are truly breathtaking and I would highly recommend staying anywhere in this area if you can. The weather was quite cold and crisp but worth every second of it. The night was quiet as I spent most of it in my car but the sunrise was like no other. Highly recommend

  • Adrea D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Miners Canyon BLM
    Nov. 4, 2023

    Miners Canyon BLM

    It's a pretty spot

    The road gets graveled but dirt bikes and ATVs come through and mess it up some. Some of the spots have seen better days. If you get a good spot it's great. The view is pretty. Beware of coyotes if you have animals.



Guide to Payson

Camping near Payson, Utah, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Exploring: The area is surrounded by stunning trails. Many campers enjoy the nearby Tibble Fork Reservoir, which is perfect for a day of hiking and picnicking. One visitor mentioned, "The drive and location is beautiful. The campground is large and there is a lot of privacy."
  • Water Activities: If you love water sports, check out Strawberry Bay. It's a great spot for boating and fishing. A reviewer said, "The campground was quiet and clean... Steps away from the reservoir which provided glorious sunrises!"
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. Campers at Granite Flat have noted the serene environment, saying, "Overall a beautiful location."

What campers like:

  • Natural Beauty: Campers rave about the picturesque views. One happy camper at Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area said, "It's a solid option and there are some pretty mountain views."
  • Privacy: Many campgrounds offer a sense of seclusion. A visitor at Nunns Park noted, "Camp spots are snug but do the job... Great little secluded access points into the river."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Mountain Valley RV Resort are great for families. One reviewer mentioned, "Everything was clean and so easy to use! We will definitely be back."

What you should know:

  • Busy Seasons: Campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Strawberry Bay advised, "It’s FCFS and gets really busy, so arrive early in the morning."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Little Mill, have basic facilities. A visitor mentioned, "The site is off the main canyon road and there is some traffic noise during the day."
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise from nearby roads or other campers. One camper at Lakeside RV Campground said, "You are also in the flight path of Provo's airport."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities like playgrounds and clean bathrooms. A reviewer at Springville / Provo KOA Holiday said, "Everything is clean and complete. Even the kitchen is clean and large in the hall."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. One family at Granite Flat enjoyed the quiet, saying, "It was so quiet the entire time we stayed here."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A camper at Nunns Park mentioned, "Wish there were showers. Great little secluded access points into the river."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Mountain Valley RV Resort noted, "We had a back-in site at the end of the row and there was a large grass area and fire pit that was great!"
  • Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. One camper at Lakeside RV Campground mentioned, "Pretty nice place for RV they have hookups full and nice bathroom that's clean and heated."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, so consider bringing earplugs. A camper at Little Mill said, "The road noise was a lot more than I expected."

For those looking for Top Dog Friendly Camping near Payson, UT, many campgrounds allow pets, making it easy to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Payson, UT?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Payson, UT is Squaw Peak Road Dispersed with a 4.4-star rating from 13 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 47 dispersed camping locations near Payson, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.