Best Dispersed Camping near Saratoga Springs, UT

Several dispersed camping options exist near Saratoga Springs, Utah, primarily on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands west of Utah Lake. Miners Canyon BLM and Miner's Canyon Dispersed areas provide free primitive camping with lake views and mountain backdrops. Additional options include Soldier's Pass Utah Backcountry to the south and Eagle Mountain Dispersed areas. These public lands typically have established fire rings at common campsites but lack designated spots, allowing campers to select their own location on public land following Leave No Trace principles.

Many access roads require careful navigation due to uneven terrain and occasional washouts. Most dispersed areas have dirt or gravel entry roads that may become rutted after rain. Eagle Mountain Dispersed requires high-clearance 4x4 vehicles to reach upper campsites, though some lower areas accommodate standard vehicles. Cascade Springs Dispersed Site similarly needs high-clearance vehicles to navigate its rough terrain. No amenities exist at these locations - campers must pack in all water and supplies and pack out all trash. Camping is permitted for up to 14 days on most BLM lands in the region.

The primitive sites offer expansive views of Utah Lake with Provo lights visible across the water at night. Morning sunrises over snowcapped mountains create memorable scenes, particularly at Miners Canyon BLM. Wildlife sightings are possible throughout the region, though visitors should prepare for variable conditions. Unfortunately, trash has been reported at several locations. "The ground had plenty of bottle caps, nails, and a little bit of glass," noted one visitor at Miners Canyon, while another mentioned the area was "magnificent" with "incredible views" despite these concerns. Cell reception varies by location, with Miners Canyon reporting good Verizon service.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Saratoga Springs, Utah (61)

    1. Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    21 Reviews
    Saratoga Springs, UT
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "Very easy access public land right on Utah Lake. Packed gravel and dirt road going in is lumpy from use but smooths out a bit farther in. Side roads to sites are anyones guess."

    "Spent a few nights there, easy access to Saratoga Springs for water, dump, and groceries."

    2. Miners Canyon BLM

    11 Reviews
    Saratoga Springs, UT
    10 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,"

    3. Squaw Peak Road Dispersed

    15 Reviews
    Provo, UT
    17 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."

    4. Soldier's Pass Utah Backcountry

    6 Reviews
    Eagle Mountain, UT
    12 miles

    "Set up was easy, drove past the BLM sign about half a mile and stayed on a flat open area. Mosquitos were terrible, bring bug spray! Happy camping!"

    5. Salamander Flat

    8 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    16 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"

    6. Eagle Mountain Dispersed

    1 Review
    Eagle Mountain, UT
    5 miles

    "This is BLM. A couple of different camping sites. Most have fire rings but no water or bathrooms. You will need a 4x4 with high clearance to get up the mountain (the road is rough)."

    7. Sawmill Picnic

    4 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    14 miles
    Website

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

    8. Cascade Springs Dispersed Site

    8 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    19 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."

    9. Mineral Basin Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Alta, UT
    22 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."

    10. Lone Peak Cirque Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Alpine, UT
    15 miles

    "I've been wanting to summit Lone Peak since I first moved to Utah in 2012. "

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Saratoga Springs, UT

247 Reviews of 61 Saratoga Springs 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.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    Many Sites of Varying Sizes

    Very easy access public land right on Utah Lake. Packed gravel and dirt road going in is lumpy from use but smooths out a bit farther in. Side roads to sites are anyones guess. Some are pretty reasonable, others are like mine fields. Suggest you park on the road and walk in. Many sites are “pull-throughs” so one entrance can be better than the other. Some great spots up the hill but you’ll need high clearance and 4wd. Bugs weren’t bad on this warm mid-September day. Some trash but I’ve been to more formal places with more trash than this. Access to the lake and lots of space to hike. Nice view of lights from the Provo side of the lake at night.

  • 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.


Guide to Saratoga Springs

Dispersed camping near Saratoga Springs, Utah offers primitive sites on BLM lands with elevations ranging from 4,500 to 8,000 feet. The region experiences dramatic temperature shifts between seasons, with summer highs reaching 95°F and winter lows dropping below freezing. Several campsites require high-clearance vehicles, while others remain accessible to standard passenger cars on maintained dirt roads.

What to do

Morning hiking: 3-4 miles to neighboring peaks at Squaw Peak Road Dispersed offers moderate trails with minimal elevation gain. "We were just looking for a place to park our RV while we visited our daughter in Eagle Mountain. There was plenty of room. There were a number of trucks with flatbed trailers that I assume transported ORV's," notes one visitor.

Paraglider watching: Dawn hours recommended at Miner's Canyon Dispersed. "Watching the paragliders on the weekends is cool as well," shares one camper. Many launch from nearby hillsides, providing aerial entertainment for those in camp.

Off-road driving: Higher elevation options at Cascade Springs Dispersed Site require proper equipment. "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," advises one visitor.

What campers like

Mountain panoramas: Optimal at sunrise/sunset when light conditions enhance visibility. At Mineral Basin Dispersed, "The ride up to mineral basin was dirt roads with amazing views. The campsite we settled on was absolutely beautiful. Very quiet and peaceful, great place to get back to nature and forget about day to day things."

Lake access: Morning hours recommended when winds are typically calmer. "Simple primitive camping, a few spots for rv and trailers to pull through, good amount of area to pitch a tent. Rock fire rings, not too far from town. Pretty quiet, some road noise. Fantastic lake and mountain views," reports a visitor to Miners Canyon BLM.

Night sky viewing: Best during new moon phase for optimal star visibility. At Miner's Canyon Dispersed, "I'm enjoying the views from this spot, it's flat after a wiggle or two. couple of abandoned tents and people coming and going either for a visit or overnight," notes one camper.

What you should know

Site availability: Weekday arrivals recommended as weekend traffic increases significantly. "We didn't stay. It's pretty as you drive in and if you keep to yourself you might be okay but there are quite a few long term residents along with all their garbage," reports one visitor to Miners Canyon BLM.

Water sources: None available at sites throughout the region. At Salamander Flat, "Nice area and large camping sites. Toilet available. There's a river to play in at a pull off just a few minutes down the road. Tons of trails. A couple of deer wandered right through our campsite."

Weather considerations: Strong winds common particularly at lakeside locations. "The wind sometimes is fierce and relentless," warns a camper at Miner's Canyon Dispersed.

Tips for camping with families

Site selection: Flat areas with natural boundaries provide better containment for young children. At Squaw Peak Road Dispersed, "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."

Wildlife viewing: Dawn/dusk optimal for spotting local deer and small mammals. "Stayed for the weekend and it was great! Had the spot right next to the bathrooms but not too stinky or loud. Gotta make sure you get there kinda early or most spots will be taken," advises a visitor to Salamander Flat.

Alternative facilities: 20-minute drive to town for bathroom access when needed. "Easy drive into the area, paved road up until you turn down toward the lake. Nice gravel road for the next half mile. 6 other RVs here when I stopped on June 20th," reports a camper at Eagle Mountain Dispersed.

Tips from RVers

Leveling challenges: Bring blocks/levelers as most sites feature uneven terrain. "This is BLM. A couple of different camping sites. Most have fire rings but no water or bathrooms. You will need a 4x4 with high clearance to get up the mountain (the road is rough). There are sites at the bottom of the mountain that you can get an RV or car in but those are crowded," notes a visitor to Eagle Mountain Dispersed.

Dump station locations: Maverick gas station approximately 5 miles from main camping areas. "With 5th wheel, took a couple sites before we were happy. 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. Visible and Verizon pretty good. Cricket 2 bars. No facilities, but we're self contained. Maverick gas station about 5 Miles'ish down the road has free dump station," shares an RVer at Miners Canyon BLM.

Site selection: Arrive before noon for best chances at flat, accessible spots. "We have seen tents as well as trailers camping in this area (as long as you are comfortable pulling your trailer on unpaved mountain roads). The campsite we chose was off a small spur road which offered privacy and was along a small stream."

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Saratoga Springs dispersed camping areas?

Dispersed camping areas around Saratoga Springs typically offer minimal to no amenities. At Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area, you'll find wide open spaces suitable for both tents and RVs with good dirt road access, but no facilities. Skyline Drive provides pull-in camping spots near a creek with beautiful rock formations but no services. Most dispersed sites are primitive with no toilets, running water, trash services, or hookups. Pack in all necessary supplies and be prepared to pack out all waste. Cell service varies significantly by location.

Where is dispersed camping allowed in Saratoga Springs?

Dispersed camping near Saratoga Springs is available in several nearby areas. Miners Canyon BLM offers dispersed camping along the lakeshore with beautiful views, though be prepared for some trash issues from previous campers. Horseshoe Knoll - Dispersed Camping is another option located on BLM land with fairly level sites, some requiring 4WD access. Other dispersed camping options exist throughout the Uinta National Forest and on BLM lands surrounding the Saratoga Springs area, typically requiring Leave No Trace practices.

Are permits required for dispersed camping at Saratoga Springs?

Permits are generally not required for dispersed camping in areas near Saratoga Springs. Dispersed Camping Willow Spring (Wasatch) and Dispersed Camping--Mill Hollow/Utah FR054 operate under standard National Forest dispersed camping regulations, which typically allow free camping without permits. Most dispersed sites follow Leave No Trace principles and have a 14-day stay limit. Always check with the local BLM office or Forest Service for any seasonal restrictions or fire bans before your trip.