Dispersed camping near Richfield, Utah offers options at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 feet, with varying seasonal accessibility. Most sites lie within Fishlake National Forest, where juniper and pine dominate lower elevations while aspens and spruce are common at higher camps. Road conditions vary significantly with weather, requiring higher clearance vehicles after rain or snow melt.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Fish Lake National Forest Campsite, campers should maintain situational awareness. "Some creature started stalking me around midnight. I could hear it moving and breathing outside my tent. I managed to scare it off by hitting my car's 'panic button' on the keys," warns one camper about potential wildlife encounters.
Mountain biking access: Camping along Willow Creek Road puts you directly adjacent to trail networks. "It is RIGHT next to a mountain bike trail, so expect some early-morning bikers to be coming down," notes one visitor who enjoyed the convenient trail access from camp.
Stargazing sessions: The minimal light pollution at higher elevation sites creates prime viewing conditions. "At night the stars were so beautiful while sitting around the campfire and being together while roasting marsh mellows," reports a camper who stayed at Maple Hollow.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed camping areas offer natural separation. "We passed one other camper on the way in. There was a spot on the left that would have had awesome sunset views, but we took the next one on the right. It had a pull through and trees and was a bit more private," notes a visitor to Fish Lake National Forest.
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation camping areas provide relief during summer heat. "Weather is cooler than in Capitol Reef so it's a nice place to recharge and escape the heat," reports a camper who stayed at Polk Creek Road Dispersed Camping.
Natural shade availability: Most sites offer tree cover for sun protection. "We found a great spot about 1/2 mile back down the access road and spent a couple of beautiful days. Hardly a passerby," mentions a camper about finding a shaded site near Maple Hollow.
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Access roads require careful navigation. "The road was pretty doable in our truck, but I think it would be easy in a sedan too. About a 7-10 min drive to the freeway. No freeway noise though," explains a camper about Fish Lake National Forest Campsite.
Bear activity reported: Take proper food storage precautions, especially at higher elevations. "There is a mama bear and cub in the area although we didn't see her," cautions a visitor to Polk Creek Road.
Water availability limitations: Most dispersed sites lack potable water. "Water supply is turned off at all water sites - unsure whether this is related to flood damage or something else," reports a camper who visited Maple Hollow.
Tips for camping with families
Explore natural features: Areas with varied terrain offer activities for children. "Kids enjoyed exploring and climbing the small trees. Previous campers made fire pits. No one to be seen for miles," reports a family staying at Whiskey Creek Road USFS Dispersed.
Camp at Elkhorn Recreation Site: Higher elevation provides comfortable summer temperatures. "This is a really nice campground it is primitive with some out houses and picnic tables. You are in the quackies and in the trees. It is higher elevation so make sure you bring your coat," advises a camper.
Bring recreational equipment: Open spaces accommodate various activities. "There is still plenty of room for the kids to bring bikes and 4 wheelers," notes a camper about tent camping options at Elkhorn.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations exist: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. "Looks like there were 3-4 more small spots for tents or vans. Not sure how many could accommodate a bigger rig," cautions a camper about Fish Lake National Forest Campsite.
Dispersed Sandy Lot access: This area offers easier access for trailers. "We found easy place with a tree to set up 26ft tt. Let the dog roam free around meadow. Further up are more sites but gets sandier and tighter," reports an RV camper at Dispersed Sandy Lot.
Elevation challenges: Higher campsites may require additional planning. "Much bigger climb than expected, so if towing a heavier trailer be aware. Gravel road is well maintained with minimal washboard," warns a camper about accessing Maple Hollow.
Guide
