Primitive camping near Salem, Utah occurs on lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service, with elevations ranging from 4,500 to 9,000 feet. The terrain varies dramatically from lowland desert areas near Utah Lake to alpine settings in the Wasatch Mountains. Most locations experience temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night, especially in higher elevations where campers can encounter frost even in summer months.
What to do
Explore hot springs trails: Fifth Water Hot Springs offers primitive camping spots along the 2-mile trail leading to natural thermal pools. "This hike has many camping spots on the second half of the trail right along the creek, some small some larger for group sites. To make it all worth the while, there's a huge waterfall at the end of the 2 mile hike along with awesome natural hot springs!" notes Shariah T. about Fifth Water Hot Springs Backpacking Site.
Stream fishing opportunities: Skyline Drive camping areas provide access to small mountain streams. "The sites closest to the little creek have the most shade. There's only 4 though that are right on the creek and along the first mile or so of skyline. Good shade and soft ground," explains Michele about the creek access at Skyline Drive.
Wildlife observation: Meadow areas around Squaw Peak Road feature open spaces ideal for spotting local wildlife. "Beautiful rolling meadows with forest on either side add beauty to the area with majestic mountains in the background," describes Spencer L. about the landscape diversity that attracts various animal species.
What campers like
Mountain views from elevated sites: Campers appreciate the panoramic vistas from higher elevation spots. "The road from the Fair View side was much better, with a trailer that's how I would tackle it. Beautiful sites pop out almost immediately and continue at almost every turn," reports Vinny D. about the views along Skyline Drive.
Creekside camping spots: Many dispersed sites offer water access. "We found a spot by a beautiful stream with cool water. Great stargazing," shares Samantha G. about her Squaw Peak Road Dispersed experience, highlighting both water features and night sky viewing.
Solitude in more remote locations: Less developed areas provide isolation from other campers. "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. This site is 400-500 yards away from the next closest collection of camp sites," explains Spencer L. about finding privacy in backcountry spots.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to many sites requires careful driving. "Road is in ok shape. Only few places small vehicle can park. Not for RV's or larger trucks really. This site and one right next to it are the same. I could barely turn RV around to go out," warns Rick W. about Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area.
Inconsistent maintenance: Some primitive sites suffer from trash issues. "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.," reports Bethany W. about conditions at Miners Canyon BLM.
Limited privacy at popular sites: Some areas offer little separation between camping spots. "Close to the highway for an overnight stop. Crowded, no facilities or privacy. Basically a field that everyone is camping in," describes Isabelle K. about the layout at one site.
Tips for camping with families
Scout for shade options: Summer temperatures can be extreme. "There weren't many trees for shade and wind block, but the views are beautiful. There are a lot of dirt bike trails. A great little place best for short one or two night trips," advises Abby W., highlighting the importance of finding protected spots for children.
Choose meadow camping for space: Meadow sites provide room for kids to explore. "This is a great FREE site; however there are no amenities. Bring everything you need. If you don't have a portable toilet, visit the rest area down the road for a last minute bathroom break before settling in for the night," Katherine B. notes about Sheep Creek preparation.
Consider weather volatility: Mountain areas experience rapid weather changes. "Be wary that when it rains, this field turns into a super slick and deep mud," warns Isabelle K., important information for families planning activities during variable conditions.
Tips from RVers
Seek level pullouts for larger vehicles: Finding flat terrain is essential for comfortable RV camping. "We were able to find a nice pullout spot off of a side road for our pop up camper. There are a handful of used spots with fire rings already made," shares Abby W., describing suitable locations for trailer setup.
Scout before committing: Access routes may challenge larger rigs. "I drove all the way through the National Forest. I found a great spot, tucked in with plenty of shade and privacy. Once you get to the top there are plenty of great options with outstanding views," advises Vinny D. about Miner's Canyon Dispersed.
Check site dimensions: Many primitive areas have space limitations. "This sight is not even 1/4 acre. It is crowded, no Verizon internet, right off road," cautions Rick W. about size constraints that affect larger vehicles at certain locations.
