Best Dispersed Camping near Snowbird, UT

Primitive camping opportunities exist throughout the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest surrounding Snowbird, Utah, with several designated dispersed camping areas requiring permits. Mineral Basin Dispersed, located on the backside of Snowbird Ski Resort, provides free primitive sites with established fire rings but no amenities. Other nearby options include Cascade Springs Dispersed Site, Albion Basin Dispersed, and Pittsburgh Lake Dispersed, all situated within the Wasatch Mountains at elevations typically above 8,000 feet. These areas generally operate under Forest Service management with varying regulations depending on specific location.

Access to most dispersed sites requires navigating unpaved mountain roads that range from well-maintained dirt paths to extremely rough terrain with large rocks and washouts. A review of Cascade Springs notes that "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." Many areas like Mineral Basin can be reached with standard vehicles, though bottom scraping may occur on rougher sections. Higher elevation sites such as Pittsburgh Lake require a 1.5-mile hike with 1,500 feet of elevation gain from the trailhead. Most dispersed camping in this region follows the standard 14-day limit common on national forest lands.

The Wasatch Mountain terrain provides spectacular alpine scenery with small lakes, meadows, and forested areas ideal for primitive camping. Wildlife sightings including elk and moose are possible, particularly during early morning and evening hours. Campers report varying levels of solitude depending on location and timing. A visitor to Pittsburgh Lake mentioned that "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." Many areas experience heavy recreational traffic during summer weekends, especially from off-road vehicles. Weather conditions change rapidly at these elevations, with one camper noting they "got caught in snow with a sudden drop in temp" while camping at Wall Lake. Cell service is typically unavailable throughout most dispersed camping areas near Snowbird.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Snowbird, Utah (70)

    1. Mineral Basin Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Alta, UT
    4 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."

    2. Cascade Springs Dispersed Site

    8 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    9 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."

    3. Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts

    8 Reviews
    Mounthaven, UT
    8 miles
    Website

    "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."

    4. Salamander Flat

    8 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    10 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"

    5. Albion Basin - Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Alta, UT
    3 miles

    "Area is not illuminated, as is expected, so I prepared a headlamp and a backup lantern for the hike."

    "Another beautiful dispersed campground site that sits in a beautiful meadow at the top of one of the busiest canyons in the country!"

    6. Pittsburg Lake Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Alta, UT
    3 miles
    Website

    "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"

    7. Sawmill Picnic

    4 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    9 miles
    Website

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

    8. Twin Peaks Wilderness Area - Dispersed

    1 Review
    Mounthaven, UT
    4 miles

    "These are all backcountry sites and you have to be at least a 1/2 mile from any road before camping.  The best spots are more than a mile in at the meadows anyway!"

    9. Squaw Peak Road Dispersed

    15 Reviews
    Provo, UT
    21 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."

    10. Millcreek Canyon Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Mounthaven, UT
    8 miles

    "Aire trail there are a few premade dispersed camping spots. 1 is good for groups of 3 tents with a nice big fire pit and the others are smaller for 1 or 2 people sharing a tent."

    "The hike is moderately difficult, especially carrying overnight gear, but it’s super worth it. There are dozens of locations along the trail you can just venture off into to camp."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Snowbird, UT

244 Reviews of 70 Snowbird 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.

  • 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.

  • Whitney W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2020

    Hobble Right Fork Dispersed

    Beauty in Abundance

    I love this canyon. There are so many places to disperse camp as a group or a an individual. One thing to know is that you will likely encounter cattle. They roam all over the hills. Download a map prior to entering Hobble Creek as you lose reception at the beginning.

    You will have to drive a dirt road that is less than fair at times. You won't need high clearance but a good suspension or airing down will help.


Guide to Snowbird

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Snowbird, Utah, where stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures await. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • The Squaw Peak Road Dispersed area provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect backdrop for your camping experience.
  • For those seeking solitude, the Mineral Basin Dispersed site offers a peaceful environment, allowing you to connect with nature while enjoying the stunning alpine scenery.
  • If you’re looking for a picturesque spot, the Cascade Springs Dispersed Site features panoramic views that are sure to impress, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Snowbird

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the trails around Albion Basin - Dispersed, which provide access to beautiful lakes and scenic vistas.
  • The Millcreek Canyon Dispersed Camping area is ideal for trail running, with numerous paths that cater to both casual walkers and serious runners.
  • For those interested in off-roading, the rugged roads leading to Pittsburg Lake Dispersed offer thrilling adventures and access to stunning alpine lakes.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Salamander Flat

  • The Salamander Flat area is known for its spacious sites, making it a great choice for larger groups or families looking to enjoy a weekend getaway.
  • With picnic tables and nearby hiking trails, Salamander Flat provides a convenient base for exploring the beautiful surroundings while enjoying a comfortable camping experience.
  • Keep in mind that this area can get busy on weekends, so arriving early can help you secure a prime spot to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping near Snowbird, Utah?

Several dispersed camping options exist within driving distance of Snowbird. Albion Basin - Dispersed is one of the closest options, located in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Another excellent choice is Millcreek Canyon Dispersed Camping, which offers more remote sites with beautiful mountain views. Both areas require adherence to Leave No Trace principles. Most dispersed sites around Snowbird are accessible in summer and fall, with winter closures due to snow. Always check current Forest Service regulations before camping, as some areas require permits or have specific restrictions during fire season. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing many of these dispersed sites.

Is dispersed camping available in Mineral Basin near Snowbird?

Dispersed camping options near Mineral Basin are limited due to the area's status as a ski resort territory. However, nearby alternatives include Twin Peaks Wilderness Area - Dispersed, which offers primitive camping opportunities for those willing to hike in. Another option is Cascade Springs Dispersed Site, though be aware that the access road is challenging with washouts requiring 4WD and high clearance vehicles. The Alpine Loop area provides additional dispersed camping opportunities within reasonable driving distance of Snowbird. Always check with the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest for current regulations and seasonal closures before planning your trip.

What amenities are available at Snowbird campgrounds for dispersed camping?

Dispersed camping around Snowbird is primitive by nature, with minimal to no amenities. Nearby Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area offers wide open spaces suitable for both tents and RVs with good dirt road access, but no facilities. Similarly, Dispersed Camping--Mill Hollow/Utah FR054 provides peaceful, scenic camping but requires visitors to be fully self-sufficient. Most dispersed sites in the region require campers to pack in all water, pack out all trash, and dig catholes for human waste at least 200 feet from water sources. Fire rings may exist at some established dispersed sites, but you should always check current fire restrictions. Cell service is typically limited or non-existent, so plan accordingly.