Dispersed camping near South Jordan, Utah provides access to multiple camping areas within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. These primitive sites range from 4,500 to 9,000 feet in elevation, creating distinct climate zones and camping experiences depending on location. Seasonal restrictions apply at many sites, with several locations including Neffs Canyon only open from July 1 through November 1, and road closures affecting winter access to others.
What to do
Trail running accessible routes: Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts features numerous trails popular with local runners. "Millcreek Canyon is home to some wonderful trails that can be accessed by foot or bike. Although the canyon offers many hiking trails, the main use of the trails seems to be for trail running," notes Sean H.
Peak summiting opportunities: The wilderness areas provide access to challenging summits with technical routes. A camper at Lone Peak Cirque Dispersed explains, "When you arrive in the cirque you're greated by 270 degrees of granite wall towering up to 600' tall! The campsites are scattered along the trail with the first coming about a mile for the cirque proper on the right in a meadow."
Water activities with children: Some sites provide stream access for family water play. Kelli R. shares that at Millcreek Canyon, "We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river. Just a fun time."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer prime opportunities to see local wildlife. "Everytime we come here we also see moose and deer. Best time is definitely fall," reports Alan B. about Millcreek Canyon.
What campers like
Mountain panoramas: Cascade Springs Dispersed Site offers exceptional views of surrounding peaks. "Mt Tiponogous is in full view and the panoramic views are all great as well," writes Skylar G.
Riverside relaxation: The sound of running water creates a natural white noise at many sites. Jenny R. describes her experience at Mineral Basin Dispersed: "The campsite we chose was off a small spur road which offered privacy and was along a small stream. The flowing water provided some great ambiance and white noise while we slept."
Secluded sites: Several areas provide privacy despite proximity to urban areas. Connor O. explains that Mineral Basin is "our go to camping spot when we want to get outside, but not drive too far from the city. You can still feel secluded, even though it fills up quickly on the weekends."
Forest shade: Pine and aspen stands provide natural shelter at many sites. "Great backpacking with lots of wildlife. 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," recommends Alan B.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Most dispersed sites require permits with varying costs. For Millcreek Canyon, "Be careful there is a 5$ per car fee sneaking at the entrance," warns Conner about the entrance fee.
Road conditions vary seasonally: Squaw Peak Road Dispersed requires careful planning as "the road turns into pavement to dirt, and once on the dirt road, it's rocky, has potholes and the road thins out," according to Jeni N.
Site availability fluctuates: Finding open sites can be challenging, especially on weekends. One camper reports that at Salamander Flat "all the sites said no reservation, first come first served, but they were all reserved with no campers."
Water source planning: Natural water requires treatment. Alan B. warns about Lone Peak Cirque: "Be warned however to bring a lot of water (at least 3 L each) and a filter if you plan on staying overnight in the cirque. All water is runoff so also make sure there is still snow up there as that is your only water supply."
Tips for camping with families
Water play locations: Identify kid-friendly water spots before your trip. "We love Millcreek Canyon for camping, hiking, or even just going up for dinner at their day use spots. Pet friendly. One of our families favorite canyons," shares Kelli R.
Easy access sites for children: Some areas have less demanding approaches than others. "Salamander Flat and large camping sites. Toilet available. There's a river to play in at a pull off just a few minutes down the road," notes Ash S.
Winter camping with snow: Some sites accessible year-round provide winter camping opportunities. "Seemed like we had a fair bit of traffic on the road we stayed on and about 4 inches of snow," reports a camper about Meadows Past Squaw Peak.
Tent-specific sites: Many areas have flat spots prepared for tents. Valerie T. shares about her Salamander Flat experience: "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."
Tips from RVers
Off-road capable vehicles needed: High clearance is essential for many sites. At Cascade Springs Dispersed Site, "the road is atrocious. Dont come unless you have some serious high clearance 4wd vehicle or you will bottom out and destroy your vehicle," warns one camper.
Limited size options: RV sites typically accommodate smaller rigs only. "Perfect for tent camping and small trailers, spots are not big enough for bigger RVs and trailers," notes Juan G. about Meadows Past Squaw Peak.
Cellular reception varies: Some areas maintain usable connectivity. Austin T. reports from Cascade Springs, "We have Verizon & TMobile & both had service. Good enough to stream music."
Dispersed RV parking spots: Free options exist for self-contained RVs. Kevin H. explains at Miner's Canyon Dispersed: "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."
