Several primitive campsites dot the national forest lands surrounding Roy, Utah, where dispersed camping is permitted without reservation. Free dispersed campsites are available in canyons and mountain areas within driving distance of Roy, including locations like Bountiful B Dispersed area, Monte Cristo Pull-off, and the Green Canyon Dispersed Campground — offering no-cost options across USFS and BLM-managed public land. Most sites are located on public land managed by the U.S. Forest Service, with additional options on BLM-managed areas. Camping locations typically feature established fire rings at pull-off spots along forest roads or near conservation areas, though amenities are minimal to nonexistent.
Many access roads leading to dispersed camping require careful navigation as conditions vary considerably. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for most sites, particularly when accessing areas like Mineral Basin Dispersed or Monte Cristo. Several dirt roads include stream crossings or steep sections that become challenging after rain. Most sites lack basic facilities—no drinking water, toilets, or trash service is available except at Green Canyon, which offers vault toilets. Fire restrictions are common during summer months. Camping is typically limited to 14 days, though specific rules vary by location. Cellphone coverage is spotty throughout the region.
Campers report varied experiences depending on the specific site chosen. The Monte Cristo area offers excellent mountain views and relative seclusion, while locations closer to Logan provide easier access but experience more traffic. Green Canyon receives heavy weekend use, particularly from mountain bikers and high school gatherings. Wildlife sightings, including moose and deer, are possible in some areas, especially Millcreek Canyon. Weather can change rapidly at higher elevations. "The road is a bit bumpy but nothing major. Our truck handled it with ease, but even a sedan would probably be fine," noted one Green Canyon visitor. Another camper at Monte Cristo described it as having "beautiful views, but it can get quite blustery." Those planning dispersed campsites near Roy should check current fire restrictions and road conditions before heading out, as both can change quickly by season.
"We found a spot that was more of a hill, which made it neat to get around, but the site was LITTERED with spent ammo, broken glass and broken pieces of clay pigeons."
"Camp is about 25 minutes from town via a dirt road 4x4 not required in certain areas just be cautious when selecting certain sites if you don't have 4x4."
"My family and I were driving through and needed a place to stay for the night. We camped the first night that lot camping was allowed (9/10) so it was quiet and peaceful."
"About 1/4 mile down a dirt road from Hwy 39 is a good single boondocking spot with a great view. Not for large RVs."
"Two nice boondocking spots just a short drive on a tight dirt road off the highway. The campsite on the right is bigger, the one on the left is very small."
"About 15 mins outside of Logan up a beautiful canyon. Headed up around 4pm on a Saturday during Memorial Day weekend so didn’t have high hopes but found a spot with a fire ring almost immediately!"
"Easy to find by putting the coordinates provided in Google Maps. Came in after dark and easily found a site about 1/4 mile or so up the road. Road is a bit bumpy but nothing major."
"Picked a pull-off spot about 10 min up the highway and was really surprised. It went pretty deep and and truly felt like I was away."
"You can backpack in and camp anywhere a 1/2 mile from any road like the other nearby canyons. Good trails to approach from are Church fork and Lambs Canyon Trailhead."
"All the camping is backcountry so you can pick any trail and just make sure that you are 1/2 mile off the road and at least 200 ft from developed ares and water."
"Took close to two hours from Salt Lake City, once you turn off I 15 you’ve still got close to an hour."
"Was a beautiful location for one night, but not much more than that. The Golden Spike park is on the way which is nice to stop by at. Was windy on the night we stayed, no fires."
"All the breeze from the salt flats comes right your way. This location is also right in an outdoor shooting range with multiple spots so that’s a plus if you’re looking for entertainment."
"First of all there is no pull out at the coordinates."
TravelerYes the road in is rough but while I was there they graded the first half. I made it with a 20ft bus. Just go slow. The views are beautiful and it was very quiet. Loved walking out to the waters edge.
GuideThis had amazing views, including a cool cave. However, the road is very bumpy and the spots are smaller. It would not be good for a larger RV. The spots fill up very quickly.
GuideCamp is about 25 minutes from town via a dirt road 4x4 not required in certain areas just be cautious when selecting certain sites if you don't have 4x4. Also worth noting lots of dirt bikes and side by sides and folks shooting guns, so if you're a light sleeper you may not enjoy this site. Otherwise, it's totally fine.
TravelerPretty far but worth a visit. We got here midnight and IT WAS WINDY!! Was afraid our car gonna tip over (yes, it’s that bad)
To our surprise it snowed in the morning and we had such a long walk around the site, very inspiring, very introspective. Would recommend!!!
GuideWe had a wonderful view of the city with few bugs and a visitor in the morning! Roads were tough so we didn’t get up too far but had a wonderful stay.
GuideI stayed here for one night, the higher you go, the better the views. The lower you go it is a little bit louder with people dirt biking, four wheeling, shooting guns, recreationally, etc. I was towards the top of the mountain and I did not have any issues with sound the whole night. I felt very safe camping by myself.
GuideThis spot was in the parking lot of spiral jetty lake in the golden spike national park. It was questionable if we were allowed to camp there, but not one came out to stop us!The parking lot is small and was busy when we first arrived. There is a camp ground within the national park, so it cleared out as the night went on.
The ride to the site was rough as we got closer to the parking lot. The road was heavily washboarded. We drove a class C RV to the spot, and it was a lot drive as we could not go over 10 MPH most of the way. But it’s worth it at the end!
You can walk down the the lake. It was very cool. The beach leading up to it felt like concrete and there was a bunch of salt deposits. When you get down to the water it is pink!
Overall all a good spot for a night!
ScoutFree to camp wherever but it’s out in a range area, trash is everywhere and the roads are quite rough. Wind is present and highway is nearby.
ScoutThe drive is doable in any vehicle, the road has many dips/ruts so it is slow going. The area was pretty and green, there are spots available with fire rings.
This campground is extremely busy that it is impossible to enjoy a peaceful time outdoors. From the few hours I was there, there were people constantly walking or biking on the road.
While I was sleeping, I was woken up by a police officer questioning me. Police will come and question you; be prepared to speak to the police and explain what you are doing there, how long you are there for, and any other questions they have for you.
This was the absolute worst campground I’ve ever been to; do not recommend this to anyone who is looking for a peaceful and pleasant experience.
You may find a spot that looks nice, but be prepared for vehicles, lots of people, and to be questioned by the police.
Primitive camping near Roy, Utah provides access to mountain landscapes in the Wasatch-Cache National Forest where elevations range from 4,500 to 9,000 feet. The dispersed camping season typically runs from May through October, though higher elevation sites often remain inaccessible until late June due to snowmelt. Summer temperatures in camping areas can fluctuate significantly, with daytime highs reaching 90°F and nighttime lows dropping into the 40s.
Mountain biking access: Green Canyon Dispersed Campground offers excellent trail access for mountain bikers. "Plenty great dispersed sites for car camping. Tons of little spots along a gravel road. Fire rings and multiple clean bathrooms are available," notes one visitor. The area features both technical routes and beginner-friendly paths.
Wildlife viewing: Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts provides opportunities to spot native species. "Everytime we come here we also see moose and deer. Best time is definitely fall," a camper reports. Early morning and dusk offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities.
Target shooting: Some areas near Skull Valley Rd Dispersed Camping allow shooting. "This location is also right in an outdoor shooting range with multiple spots so that's a plus if you're looking for entertainment," writes one camper. Always check current regulations and practice proper safety protocols.
Solitude: Many campers appreciate the privacy found at Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo. "We came during a week day and the whole site was empty! Very quiet, very pretty, and very colorful. There were only two or maybe three spots total, so get here early," shares one visitor.
Stream access: Several sites feature water proximity. A camper at Mineral Basin Dispersed reports: "The campsite was well maintained with a little fire pit and a flat space clear of rocks. We woke up to the noises of the wildlife around us, and the beautiful sunrise over the mountains."
Off-road exploration: The terrain surrounding primitive camp sites offers extensive off-road options. "My favorite place to camp. Other campers are respectful at night and friendly during the day. Nights are quiet and the moon is usually super bright," notes a visitor to Skull Valley Road.
Seasonal considerations: Many Roy area primitive camping sites close during winter. At Bountiful B Dispersed, a camper writes: "We dealt with rain and even snow on the last morning… But there was green grass and a spot for fires and the Sheriffs rolls through and are super helpful as well."
Site conditions: Prepare for variable campsite quality. "The site was LITTERED with spent ammo, broken glass and broken pieces of clay pigeons. Another group camping near us told us they found the same at their site so be weary of where you step up here," notes a Bountiful B visitor.
Cell service reality: Connectivity varies significantly between camping areas. "Camped with friends we had cell service via t-mobile, att&t, and visible with varying strengths," reports a Green Canyon visitor, though coverage diminishes quickly in more remote locations.
Best family-friendly locations: Some sites work better for groups with children. "There are some pretty good spots with shade for dispersed camping up green canyon," notes a visitor to Green Canyon Dispersed Campground. The presence of vault toilets makes this location more comfortable for families.
Weekend crowds: Popular areas fill quickly during peak times. "There are tons of free site all up and down the main road. The only problem is it is busy if you leave on Friday plan to get there by 3 at the latest. Spots fill quick," warns a Monte Cristo camper.
Water play opportunities: Some locations offer stream access for children. "We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river. Just a fun time," shares a visitor to Millcreek Canyon.
Road conditions: Many primitive camping roads present challenges for RVs. "About 1/4 mile down a dirt road from Hwy 39 is a good single boondocking spot with a great view. Not for large RVs. Our 17 ft trailer with 4x4 was tricky to get into the spot because the loop was so small," advises an RV owner at Monte Cristo Pull-off.
Best RV-accessible sites: Some areas accommodate smaller recreational vehicles. "Tons of dispersed camping areas along the 196. We stayed about 12 miles off of the I-80, on the east side of the 196. Beautiful views, wide open spaces and super quiet. We brought a 30' RV with a lifted Ram 2500 and had no problem driving over the washouts," reports a camper at Skull Valley Road.
Turnaround space: Consider vehicle maneuverability when selecting primitive sites. "My Honda Civic was able to navigate the gravel road far back into the canyon," notes a Green Canyon visitor, indicating that smaller vehicles have better access options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Roy, UT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Roy, UT is Bountiful B Dispersed with a 4-star rating from 7 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Roy, UT?
TheDyrt.com has all 25 dispersed camping locations near Roy, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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