Best Dispersed Camping near Provo, UT

Dispersed camping near Provo, Utah spans several free primitive sites across public lands, with options in both Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and BLM areas. Squaw Peak Road Dispersed, Miner's Canyon Dispersed, Cascade Springs Dispersed, and Hobble Right Fork Dispersed are among the established free camping zones. Most sites require no reservations and follow typical public land regulations, though some areas like Salamander Flat and Sheep Creek may require permits. These primitive sites provide backcountry access for tent and RV camping with minimal to no facilities.

Many access roads leading to dispersed sites require careful navigation, with several locations demanding high-clearance vehicles or 4WD capability. Cascade Springs Dispersed features particularly challenging roads with washouts and large rocks. Hobble Creek Road transitions to gravel after passing a bridge, while Miner's Canyon offers dirt roads accessible to most vehicles. Most areas permit camping for up to 14 days and follow standard dispersed camping protocols—no amenities, pack out all trash, and practice Leave No Trace principles. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, and campers must bring their own water or have filtration systems for nearby streams.

The dispersed camping experience around Provo combines mountain views, forest settings, and occasional lakeside options. Sites like Cascade Springs provide panoramic vistas of Mount Timpanogos, while Miner's Canyon BLM offers stunning views of Utah Lake backed by snowcapped mountains. Campers should be prepared for variable conditions and occasional crowds during peak seasons. Cell service varies significantly by location, with some areas maintaining good coverage while others have none. "The road gets pretty rough/there's a decent sized dip after the first few sites, which we were able to make with a 4WD high clearance car, with a small trailer. But I wouldn't have attempted it in my sedan," noted one camper about the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest dispersed camping areas.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Provo, Utah (71)

    1. Squaw Peak Road Dispersed

    15 Reviews
    Provo, UT
    3 miles

    "Getting here can be challenging, very steep incline , tight corners , and some spots have bumpy dirt roads."

    "This site is deep past the meadows near square peak. You continue to follow the dirt road in and on your left is a small depression in the land with a fire pit and ample space for tents or hammocks."

    2. Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    19 Reviews
    Saratoga Springs, UT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "Great option just south of salt lake. The lake and Mountain View are beautiful! Pretty flat, the road in is fairly easy."

    "Landed with large windows facing lake, lovely.

    Starlink is a little slower, but maybe cos I am roaming. 60 meg down, 7 or 8 meg up."

    3. Miners Canyon BLM

    11 Reviews
    Saratoga Springs, UT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "Tents, pillows, sleeping bags, glass, etc."

    "I arrived in the evening and was greeted with an incredible view: a vast lake backed by snowcapped mountains glowing in the light from the setting sun; the lights from Provo, the city across the lake,"

    4. Salamander Flat

    8 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    13 miles
    Website

    $10 / night

    "My boyfriend and I car camped here for the first time and it was great! There are multiple spots to set up camp with private fire pits and trails nearby."

    "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"

    5. Cascade Springs Dispersed Site

    8 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    14 miles
    Website

    "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."

    "There was a weird spot when Google maps told us to go right (staying on the paved road) while there was an "alternate" route up a dirt road to the coordinates on the dyrt."

    6. Dispersed Camping Willow Spring (Wasatch)

    11 Reviews
    Wallsburg, UT
    17 miles

    "Campground Review: In my attempt to explore as many areas in Utah as I can, I came across this wonderful dispersed camping off Highway 40, south of Heber City toward Main Canyon. "

    "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!"

    7. Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area

    29 Reviews
    Mapleton, UT
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 798-3571

    "This is a great spot just a about 2 miles off the main highway. It’s paved until you get to the campground turn off which is a good dirt road. Wide open space with tons of options to tent or RV."

    "Lots of places to pick from but only a couple trees providing shade. Access road is well maintained and low clearance friendly"

    8. Sawmill Picnic

    4 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    13 miles
    Website

    "Second all slots are extremely close to Alpine road. Wonderful day spot, bummer we couldn’t stay the night!"

    9. Hobble Right Fork Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Mapleton, UT
    15 miles

    "There are so many places to disperse camp as a group or a an individual. One thing to know is that you will likely encounter cattle. They roam all over the hills."

    "The area is accessible to normal cars (sedans/SUVs) from the main gravel road and if you wish to go further for more privacy, and a better spot in my opinion, you can turn off on a dirt road."

    10. Mineral Basin Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Alta, UT
    20 miles

    $6 / night

    "Campground Review: Mineral Basin is located in the Wasatch Mountains to the East of Salt Lake City."

    "The ride up to mineral basin was dirt roads with amazing views. The campsite we settled on was absolutely beautiful."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Provo, UT

241 Reviews of 71 Provo Campgrounds


  • Bethany W.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 19, 2025

    Miners Canyon BLM

    A lot of trash

    As beautiful as the view was, I felt it was ruined with all of the trash that people have left behind in the dispersed camping area as well as along the lakeshore. Tents, pillows, sleeping bags, glass, etc. There also seems to be majority long term campers who have a lot of stuff everywhere around their campsites, as well as 2-3 permanent residents living on the private property that backs up against the public lands. While there are 10-12 spots that are easily accessible, they’re being utilized by the long-term campers. Our first night here we arrived around 8 pm, right before sunset so we didn’t have a lot of time to explore so we just parked in the larger area near the public access area to the lake by 3 other campers. Luckily the next morning a camper van left so we were able to move without being on top of so many people since the people we were around all had dogs barking almost every time we let ours out to go to the bathroom. Overall, I felt like this campsite left more to be desired and took away from the beauty of the area.

  • Jenny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 21, 2018

    Dispersed Camping Willow Spring (Wasatch)

    Ranger Review: Snapbuds and Dispersed Camping toward Willow Spring

    Campground Review: In my attempt to explore as many areas in Utah as I can, I came across this wonderful dispersed camping off Highway 40, south of Heber City toward Main Canyon. I had the intention of staying in a nearby campground. But when I felt the price was a bit too high for just one night, I sought adventure elsewhere. I randomly turned off toward Main Canyon and followed the dirt road until I found a spot I liked. I knew I was in dispersed national forest camping when there are signs indicating a 14 day limit. So all along this dirt road, which got pretty rocky at times, are spots to pull off and camp for the night. It can accommodate single tents, multiple tents, RVs (obviously no hookups) and trailers.  There are man-made fire pits so if you start a fire, be sure to put it out completely and observe LNT (leave no trace) camping principles. Whatever you bring in with you is what you have as there are no amenities to speak of. The ground was soft and there were lots of trees from which to hang a hammock. I did forget to fill my water jug before I left my house so I had to search out a small run off stream from which I could filter water. But be sure to have a good water filter if you are going to go this route.  The only real negative I have for this site (or area of sites) is that there was a lot of AVT/Side-by-side/dirtbike traffic. If that type of activity was on my list, this area would be first on my list. However, since I chose not to stay in a campground because I wanted the seclusion, the traffic was a little bit of a bummer. But, because the camping was free and everyone who passed waved and was really nice, I didn’t have too much of a problem with it. Also, the site I chose was right off the road (as majority of them are). If I wanted to hike with my stuff a little more, I found a very pretty meadow away from the road that would have been very peaceful. I guess that will have to be my next spot. OI verall, I have a love for free, dispersed camping and this area is large enough to explore for a wide variety of adventures.

    Gear Review: Snapbuds

    As a Ranger for the Dyrt, I get the opportunity to test out gear every so often from our amazing partners. I was given the opportunity to test out a new product called Snapbuds. The premise of this product is to help keep your earbud cords organized or untangled by use of magnets. They come in three different colors—grey, black, and white, so you can make them coordinate with your cords or stand out. The instructions are easy to follow and have a few options for how to set these little magnets into different configurations. It also has a really handy measuring tape/picture to make sure you can get the snapbuds in the right spot. I decided to try the standard configuration on my first pair of earbuds. These are designed to be permanent additions to your cords so be sure to pay attention to what direction you snap the magnets on. Once I got them on, I wrapped them up and threw them around in my bag. The magnets held and when I went to use them, all I had to do was pull the magnets apart and the cord was untangled. It was pretty sweet. I also used them while hiking around with my dog.

    Overall, these are a pretty cool solution to a long standing annoyance of earbud cords.

  • Aliyah B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2018

    Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area

    Great Free Dispersed Camping

    This is a great spot just a about 2 miles off the main highway. It’s paved until you get to the campground turn off which is a good dirt road. Wide open space with tons of options to tent or RV. There’s a huge sign that says Sheep Creek Campground so you can’t miss it. Drove here with my front wheel drive sedan and tent camped. Train goes by occasionally but not loud enough to disturb. Access to hiking trails all around because it’s national forest land. You can stay 14 days. No permit required. No amenities.

  • Tyrinn B.
    Apr. 11, 2025

    Skyline Drive

    Roadside Oasis

    This is down a little dirt road near the Ghost town remnants of Tucker, Utah. There is a cute little creek, plenty of places to pull into to camp, and lots of neat rock formations to observe. We stayed 2 nights, and after dusk, the noise was minimal. You can hear some traffic noise from the highway, but it's faint. Be sure to mind the signs posted for private property. It seems as though some people have left their trash behind, and it's very unfortunate because this is by far the best spot we found on this HWY near Spanish Fork. Pack in and pack out is a must as there are no amenities other than nature's amenities. I found a few fossils in my wandering of our site. Some spots by the creek have been washed out, and the ground seems to have given way, so be mindful of where you park. The spot we stayed in was the 3rd spot after the private property signs on the left-hand side. Be sure to scout the turn-off roads before attempting to drive down them. This is a sandy spot, and the ground is not the most sound due to water damage. Cool little spot to unwind and enjoy nature's surroundings.

  • Clayton M.
    Feb. 23, 2019

    Dispersed Camping--Mill Hollow/Utah FR054

    Great Place To Camp With Right Equipment

    Our family really likes dispersed camping near Mill hollow reservoir. It’s very peaceful and scenic! The main road in is fairly easy to navigate but if you venture off the main path you’ll want a vehicle with clearance and possibly 4X4. We cherish the ability to camp like this so we always take out everything we brought in “leave no trace” unfortunately not everyone has the same respect so we typically end up taking out any trash we find from the previous campers. Overall a great place to camp if you’re equipped for dispersed camping!

  • Jenny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 13, 2018

    Pittsburg Lake Dispersed

    Ranger Review: Matador Camera Base Layer at Pittsburg Lake UT

    Campground Review: Dispersed camping at Pittsburg Lake, Utah

    Because I am into hiking and exploring national forest camping this summer, I found a fun adventure at Pittsburg Lake in the Uinta National Forest in the Wasatch Mountains. Getting there—the hike is a 1.5 mile hike up to the lake. Getting to the trail head is a dusty, dirt road behind Midway, UT. You are driving on dirt road for approximately 6-7 miles and will encounter at least two stream crossings. One crossing is cobblestoned, the other is driving up the stream for 50 feet right before the trail head. Therefore, a high clearance vehicle is highly recommended, if not necessary. There are a lot of off roading trails back in this area so you will encounter lots of RZRs, dirtbikes, 4-wheelers, jeeps, etc on your way to the trailhead but a non-lowered car can handle the road if the driver is comfortable. The really rocky section is past the trail head. Anyway, long dusty road to the trailhead then then hike is 1.5 miles all uphill with 1500 ft of elevation gain. You are hiking on a very rocky old mining road. My husband and I decided we wanted to really punish ourselves and we hiked up with an inflatable paddle board in addition to my stuff for camping. The hike is totally doable even with a lot of gear, just go slow and be careful of your footing. To be honest, I felt sorer after the hike down then after the hike up. So you make it up the trail and you come to a beautiful, small alpine lake. The lake is approximately .33 miles around and has trout for fishing. There is even an old homestead cabin to explore. The lake has many human-made fire pits scattered all around depending if you want to be right on the lake or if you want to tuck back farther into the woods. I found a spot close to the lake for easy paddle board access where I could hang my hammock. This was my first adventure in hammock camping and I actually enjoyed it. The views are so pretty and you are on the backside of Snowbird Ski Area. The area was beautiful and I wish I saw more wildlife (I have heard rumors of elk and moose sightings).

    I am giving this camping area 4 stars not because of the area itself (it is free, beautiful, relaxing, etc.) but because of the other people who were staying up there made it not the best night for a female solo camper with her dog. There was another group camping about 200 meters away but I don’t think they knew I was there and they were up late making a lot of noise. Every time I was about to fall asleep, I would hear them chop wood or yell for an echo or make some other non-natural noise that would keep me awake (plus my imagination would start to run away from me). There was also another couple who decided to camp up there and needed to borrow a lighter but ended up leaving around 2AM. So whenever they came close to my camp, my wonderful protective dog would growl and raise the alarm, again, inhibiting my ability to fall asleep. The other annoyance was the flies. I am not sure if it is just the spot that I chose that had a lot of flies or they would have followed me wherever I set up camp. They didn’t bite and were more annoying than anything. I think my dog ate a few dozen as they buzzed around her head. So due to those negatives, the spot gets dinged a star.

    Overall, it was worth carrying the paddle board up to the lake as 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. I could read my book in the hammock and go for exploratory hikes in the area. Final thought, it is National Forest camping so please, please, please follow leave no trace principles to keep the area nice for future visitors.

    Gear Review: Matador Camera Base Layer

    As a Ranger for The Dyrt I get the opportunity to test out gear from our awesome partners once in a while. While I was camping at Pittsburg Lake, I had the opportunity to try out the Matador Camera Base Layer. Because I am a glutton for punishment, I decided to haul a bunch of gear up to Pittsburg Lake and it included by nice DSLR camera. Photography is a fun hobby I have been playing around with for a few years, but I come across the problem of how to safely get my camera places without carrying either an additional camera bag that takes up a lot of space or wrapping my camera up in a sweatshirt or other piece of clothing to protect it with a smaller profile. Well, the Matador camera base layer has officially solved my problem. Hooray! The base layer is basically a padded, contoured, dry sack for my camera. Place the camera lens down, then roll and clip the top like a dry sack. It has holes to allow your camera neck or wrist straps to come through so you can wear your camera while it is being protected. Because it is from Matador, it is super lightweight but it does not feel flimsy, thin, or not durable. I was able to stuff my camera in the top of my paddle board bag while hiking up and down and I felt comfortable that nothing would be broken when I got to the top. It protected it from the dirt and dust that gets on everything when you are camping so it helped to keep things cleaner. I also took my camera for a hike with no additional backpacks and I clipped the base layer around my wrist so it wouldn’t get in the way. Besides being a bit hot, it was a great way to keep track of the base layer. I cannot convey how happy I am to have this piece of equipment in my gear box. While I am no Ansel Adams, being able to take more pictures with my camera and not just my phone while I am out on adventures will add another dimension to my activities and help me develop a new skill. The only thing I might want to improve is a small piece of Velcro on the bottom to help keep the waterproof cover inside its little pocket. But this is so minor in the grand scheme of things. If you are into photography at all, I highly recommend looking into this product.

  • Jenny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2018

    Dispersed Camping--Mill Hollow/Utah FR054

    Peaceful National Forest Dispersed Camping

    Over Memorial Day weekend, my husband and I got away for a night and dispersed camp in the Unita National forest near the Mill Creek campground. We were planning to stay at the campground but it was closed, so we took advantage of free dispersed camping right outside. This is LNT(leave no trace) camping so be sure to pack out what you pack in. There are no amenities but you are along a water source so if you have a filter, you have water. All along the road there are open fields that can accommodate trailers and bigger parties then just a single tent. Near the campground (and the site we chose) is an outdoor education center which would be fun to go back and visit later in the summer. We really enjoyed camping here as it was peaceful and private (at least when we visited).  Later in the summer that may not be the case, especially close to the road. The biggest issue may be the road. My Mazda3 was able to make it up, but the road was quite rutted and rough and you had to go through a small runoff stream. If you have a lowered vehicle, you may have a tough time but anything with a higher clearance will do just fine. Overall, I loved exploring a new area that I will definitely return to.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • Whitney W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2020

    Hobble Right Fork Dispersed

    Beauty in Abundance

    I love this canyon. There are so many places to disperse camp as a group or a an individual. One thing to know is that you will likely encounter cattle. They roam all over the hills. Download a map prior to entering Hobble Creek as you lose reception at the beginning.

    You will have to drive a dirt road that is less than fair at times. You won't need high clearance but a good suspension or airing down will help.


Guide to Provo

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Provo, Utah, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. With numerous options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Dispersed campers should check out Miner's Canyon Dispersed

  • This location offers a peaceful retreat with ample space for camping, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. Check it out at Miner's Canyon Dispersed.
  • Campers can enjoy the freedom of having fires and bringing pets along, enhancing the outdoor experience.
  • The access is drive-in, allowing for easy arrival, though be prepared for some rough roads leading to the sites.

Scenic views while free camping near Provo

  • The Squaw Peak Road Dispersed area provides stunning panoramic views that are well worth the bumpy drive.
  • With plenty of hiking trails nearby, this spot is perfect for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the region.
  • Campers have reported a good level of privacy, making it a great choice for a peaceful getaway.

Top attractions for dispersed campers

  • The Dispersed Camping Willow Spring (Wasatch) area is known for its proximity to beautiful streams and lush trees, providing a picturesque setting for camping.
  • This site features a portable toilet and a dumpster for waste disposal, making it a more convenient option for campers.
  • Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to see various animals in their natural habitat, adding to the overall experience of camping in this area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any free camping spots in Provo Canyon?

Dispersed Camping Willow Spring offers free camping opportunities off Highway 40, south of Heber City toward Main Canyon. This area provides a cost-effective alternative to nearby paid campgrounds. Another option is Skyline Drive, located down a dirt road near the Ghost town remnants of Tucker, Utah. It features a creek, multiple pull-in camping spots, and interesting rock formations. After dusk, noise is minimal though some traffic sounds from the highway may be heard. These free camping spots typically don't have amenities like running water or toilets, so campers should come prepared with all necessary supplies.

What are the regulations for dispersed camping in Utah County?

Dispersed camping in Utah County follows Leave No Trace principles, meaning you must pack out all trash and camping gear. At Dispersed Camping--Mill Hollow/Utah FR054, campers are expected to maintain the pristine environment and respect the area. Some areas like Duchesne Tunnel Campground may require fees ($10 for 3 days or $20 per week) paid through the Forest Service. Most dispersed sites have a 14-day stay limit within a 30-day period. Campfires may be restricted seasonally, especially during dry conditions. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip. Camping is generally not permitted within 100 feet of water sources, and vehicles must stay on established roads to prevent resource damage.

Do I need a vehicle with 4WD to access dispersed camping sites around Provo?

Vehicle requirements vary by location. Cascade Springs Dispersed Site definitely requires 4WD and high clearance due to washouts and rocks from the entrance to the top. In contrast, Miners Canyon BLM and many other dispersed sites are accessible with standard vehicles. At Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area, the road is paved until the campground turnoff, which is a good quality dirt road navigable by front-wheel drive vehicles. For areas like Mill Hollow, the main roads are fairly easy to navigate with any vehicle, but venturing off the main paths requires vehicles with higher clearance and possibly 4WD. Always check recent reviews or ranger station updates for current road conditions before your trip.

Where can I find free dispersed camping areas near Provo, Utah?

Several free dispersed camping areas surround Provo, Utah. Hobble Right Fork Dispersed offers numerous spots for both groups and individuals in Hobble Creek Canyon, though you may encounter cattle roaming the hills. Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area is located just about 2 miles off the main highway with a good dirt road leading to wide open spaces suitable for both tents and RVs. The area is clearly marked with a large sign. Other options include Skyline Drive near Tucker, Goshen Road dispersed camping, and areas near Mill Hollow Reservoir. Most of these sites operate on Leave No Trace principles, so pack out all trash and camping gear when you leave.