Dispersed camping near Pine Valley, Utah presents diverse camping options from high-desert plateaus to pine-studded mountain terrain at elevations between 4,000-7,000 feet. Weather conditions can shift dramatically with summer daytime temperatures reaching 95°F while dropping to 50°F at night in higher elevations. Roads accessing most rustic camping areas deteriorate significantly after rain, with Leeds Canyon becoming particularly challenging beyond site #7.
What to do
Hiking through desert canyons: Multiple trailheads near North Creek Dispersed Camping provide access to desert terrain and small waterways. "We hiked at snow canyon while camping there," notes a camper who found the area convenient for day trips to nearby parks.
Stream exploration: During spring months, Leeds Creek offers small pools and flowing water access. "Leeds creek runs behind it, nice sound of water," reports a visitor at Leeds Canyon Dispersed #11, highlighting the seasonal water features sometimes available to campers.
Night sky observation: The minimal light pollution makes Pine Valley dispersed camping spots ideal for astronomy enthusiasts. "Epic view of the night sky! If you got everything you need in a vehicle, I would definitely recommend. Very quiet and peaceful. Also heard some young coyotes at night," shares a camper who used Hurricane Cliffs BLM dispersed #54 as a staging area for Zion.
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Many campers appreciate the convenient location for visiting multiple parks. "North Creek has numerous spots, most are close together but the campground was not full at all allowing plenty of space and privacy. The drive to Zion is around 20 minutes," notes one reviewer who found the location practical for national park visits.
Private camping spaces: Leeds Canyon's dispersed sites offer more separation than many other areas. "Beautiful views with camping spots really spread out!" reports a visitor to Leeds Canyon Dispersed #1, highlighting the separation between designated sites.
Cool water access: During hot months, water features become highly valued. "The stream is a great place to put some chairs and cool off. I will definitely be coming back here on my next Zion trip!" shares a camper who found relief from summer heat at North Creek Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Higher-numbered Leeds Canyon sites require appropriate vehicles. "The road definitely gets sketchy (and cell service gets weak) after site #6, though we managed in our 26ft class c. Wouldn't really recommend any huge rigs," warns a visitor describing access challenges.
Trash management issues: Pack out all waste as no services exist. "There was A LOT of litter when I visited. I did my best to clean some of it up while I was there. Please remember to pack in/pack out and leave no trace!!" emphasizes a camper who stayed at Dispersed Camping in Dixie National Forest.
Seasonal crowd patterns: Summer weekends see significantly higher usage. "Here on a Saturday night and there are a lot of folks here, tons of tents. Got here mid afternoon and found a flat site by creek. Feeling pretty lucky!" shares a North Creek visitor who experienced typical weekend occupancy patterns.
Wind exposure: Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed sites lack protection from strong winds. "Wind came up around midnight and it was like being in a hurricane for 5 hours. It's super close to Zion but the wind made it a no return for us," reports a camper who experienced typical wind patterns in the exposed areas.
Tips for camping with families
Scout suitable tent sites: Look for wind-protected locations with natural shade. "Nice spot with tent area tucked in the trees. Leeds creek runs behind it, nice sound of water," shares a visitor to Leeds Canyon Dispersed #11 who found a family-friendly setup.
Morning wildlife viewing: Early risers can catch glimpses of desert wildlife. "Really set the ambience with the moon hanging over the skyline of mountains all around you. Also heard some young coyotes at night," notes a camper about their experience at Hurricane Cliffs BLM.
Consider shorter access routes: Lower-numbered Leeds Canyon sites offer easier access for families. "Leeds Canyon Dispersed sites 1-6 are easiest to get into with a TT. Only a few miles outside of Leeds and Interstate 15," explains a camper familiar with the relative accessibility of different sites.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through options: Leeds Canyon Dispersed #4 provides easier RV positioning. "The site is bare bones but it was perfect for our pop up camper. It's a wrap around site so we could easily pull through," explains an RV camper who appreciated the simple access design.
Size-appropriate site selection: Match your vehicle size to the right dispersed area. "Did fine with a 25ft travel trailer. Riverside spots are mostly for vans/tents," notes a North Creek visitor who successfully navigated a mid-sized trailer into an appropriate site.
Alternative access points: Some larger vehicles require special consideration. "We got our 33 footer in with a little work," shares a North Creek camper who needed to make multiple attempts before finding suitable access for their larger rig.
