Tent camping near Sigurd, Utah provides access to several dispersed camping sites throughout the high desert landscape at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet. The region experiences significant temperature swings, with summer daytime highs averaging 85°F dropping to 45-50°F overnight. Access roads to most camping areas remain open from late April through October, with several sites requiring high-clearance vehicles during wet conditions.
What to do
Fishing at higher elevations: Polk Creek Road Dispersed Camping serves as a convenient base for anglers accessing mountain lakes. "Weather is cooler than in Capitol Reef so it's a nice place to recharge and escape the heat," notes Azaali J., who mentions there's "a mama bear and cub in the area although we didn't see her."
Mountain biking on nearby trails: The Willow Creek Road - Dispersed Site sits adjacent to mountain biking trails. Daniel S. notes this spot is "RIGHT next to a mountain bike trail, so expect some early-morning bikers to be coming down." At 8,000 feet elevation, the site offers cooler temperatures for summer riding.
Wildlife viewing: When camping at Elkhorn Recreation Site, visitors often spot elk, deer, and various bird species. Brad B. shares, "We stay up here quite often during the elk hunt and it is quite busy in the fall but there is still plenty of room for the kids to bring bikes and 4 wheelers."
What campers like
Accessibility from highways: The Fish Lake National Forest Campsite offers easy access for travelers. Megan W. reports, "The road was pretty doable in our truck, but it think it would be easy in a sedan too... About a 7-10 min drive to the freeway. No freeway noise though."
Privacy among junipers: Dispersed Sandy Lot provides isolated camping options. Bruce J. notes, "There was no one here at all and 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."
Sunset views: Campers at Whiskey Creek Road USFS Dispersed appreciate the elevated vistas. Chula R. shares, "Camp was relatively flat, good trees for shade and elevated to allow for nice views and a breeze. Kids enjoyed exploring and climbing the small trees." The site sits approximately 20 minutes from Highway 50.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans typically affect the entire region during summer months. Azaali J. reports at Polk Creek Road, "There's currently fire restrictions so we didn't have a fire but we set up a nice little sitting area around the fire with logs we found in the forested area."
Water availability: No running water exists at most dispersed sites. At Maple Hollow, Andrew M. notes "Water supply is turned off at all water sites - unsure whether this is related to flood damage or something else," indicating intermittent water supply even at established sites.
Road conditions: Access roads deteriorate quickly after rain. Bob H. warns about Maple Hollow: "5 mile rough gravel road for access. Could not find a site in the camp itself, but many pull off on the way up."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife safety: Keep food secured in hard containers as bears frequent the area. At Fish Lake National Forest, Christy S. notes, "We took a short walk and did encounter a small herd of cows near the road," indicating livestock also roam freely.
Temperature planning: Pack warm clothing regardless of season due to dramatic overnight temperature drops. Tracey W. cautions about Willow Creek Road, "You are at almost 8000 ft so not a winter camping spot."
Space for activities: Some sites provide open areas for children to play safely. At Whiskey Creek Road, Chula R. mentions, "Kids enjoyed exploring and climbing the small trees. Previous campers made fire pits. No one to be seen for miles."
Tips from RVers
Trailer access limitations: Many dispersed sites accommodate only smaller trailers under 25 feet. At Maple Hollow, Andrew M. advises, "Much bigger climb than expected, so if towing a heavier trailer be aware. Gravel road is well maintained with minimal washboard...Limited space for small trailers/campers."
Turnaround space: Look for pull-through options if driving larger rigs. Alisa H. found at Fish Lake National Forest "a gorgeous pull through with beautiful views. Minor I70 noise, had cell service- T-Mobile. Private, only had 3 cars drive by in 18 hours."
Seasonal timing: RV camping is most accessible from June through September. Bruce J. notes at Dispersed Sandy Lot, "We were looking for an easy place away from the interstate to split our drive from Idaho to St George in half," highlighting its convenience as an overnight stop.
