Primitive camping near Roosevelt, Utah centers primarily on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management and nearby forest service areas. The region sits at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between seasons and day-night cycles. Spring and fall bring moderate temperatures for backcountry camping, while summer days often exceed 90°F with cooler nights.
What to do
Mountain biking networks: McCoy Flats offers 46 miles and 15 trails for various skill levels. "This trail system boasts 46 miles and 15 trials for all skill levels. If you are a mountain biker, this area is not to be missed," notes one visitor to McCoy Flats MTB Trailhead.
Fishing opportunities: Fish at Starvation Reservoir where camping puts you close to the water. A camper at Juniper Point shared, "We loved jumping in the reservoir and the fishing is great."
Wildlife viewing: Higher elevation forest areas provide wildlife encounters. "I spent 25 days camp on top the mountain above the meadows and hiked well over 100 miles in the back country. The scenery and wildlife was amazing. Deer, birds, moose and mountain lions cover this range," reports a visitor to Massey Meadow Camping Area.
Hiking trail systems: The Flume Trail connects various camping areas with river views. "The two are connected by a wonderful trail system called the Flume Trail. The Flume Trail runs next to the river, and is absolutely beautiful. It's huge for mountain biking and hiking, and offers 10 to 24 miles of trail."
What campers like
Cellular connectivity: Most McCoy Flats dispersed areas have strong service. "Cell signal is very good on all carriers. Camping seems to be mostly around the TH corrals area," shares a camper about McCoy Flats MTB Trailhead.
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed areas offer significant space between campers. At McCoy Flats East Dispersed Camp, a visitor noted, "Lots of room for large TTs. No trash dumpsters and no water, but cell signal is excellent 5g five bars."
Convenience to town: Some sites balance seclusion with access to supplies. "Only few miles from main hwy on an old paved pothole filled road. And then only 3 miles back into Vernal and a Walmart on this end of town, so logistics are very good."
Night skies: The area's limited light pollution creates excellent stargazing. "Stargazing!! Tons of hikes in the area, can't remember the names of the trails I did. This is dispersed camping from the US Forest Service so you drive around until you find a patch of grass or sand you like by the road."
What you should know
Access road conditions: Roads to most dispersed sites vary in quality. "High clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing more remote sites. Good place to jump off the road for a night if you have higher clearance, 4 x 4 if you want to go in other places," advises a camper at Starvation Hideaway Dispersed.
Toilet facilities: Some areas have basic facilities while others require self-sufficiency. "There is an older vault toilet up in the junipers and a new vault toilet out by main paved road. New campers to this site should recon first before hauling a TT up these narrow entrenched two-track sandy roads," notes a visitor at McCoy Flats Juniper Dispersed.
Weather considerations: Wind can be significant in exposed areas. One camper at Dog Valley Camp mentions, "Camped across the road from established free camping. Our site was private and no ATVs so it's pretty quiet too. Some road noise, but it drops off around 11 pm."
Local regulations: Free dispersed camping typically has stay limits. "Note: screenshot of BLM proposed CG map is attached here," shares a camper referencing potential future changes to the area's status.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom planning: Scout for dispersed sites near facilities if needed. "Facilities are amazingly clean, easy to accommodate a large group of people!" says a visitor to Knight Hollow.
Wildlife education: Use camping as an opportunity for nature lessons. "I spent my days foraging for mushrooms and berries to which I had found plenty of. Five stars in my book and will return as often as possible!"
Temperature preparation: Pack for significant day-night temperature swings. "It takes a minute to get to this spot, but we found plenty of space with beautiful scenery," notes a camper at North Fork Camping Area.
Shade considerations: Most dispersed sites lack natural shade. "If you drive 1.5 miles in, thought toilets were added in a really nice area on your left. I stayed there and there was ample room for 10+ rigs & lots of privacy."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Look for level spots before committing. "Juniper is a primitive site with 3 vault toilets and dumpster. A couple of the sites are secluded. Finding level ground is somewhat challenging," reports a visitor at Juniper Point.
Service availability: Plan for self-containment at most dispersed sites. "One of the best spots I have found for full time RV/Van life. Extremely quite with amazing sunsets. Full service on AT&T and Verizon."
Supply runs: Take advantage of nearby towns for restocking. "The town of Vernal is close by with a Walmart less tan 10-15 minutes. Highly recommended!"
Vehicle maintenance: Watch for wildlife approaching vehicles at night. "During my last night, I did have some rodents try to get underneath of my hood so if you're going to be staying stationary for multiple nights, be aware."
