Dispersed camping near Spanish Fork, Utah provides access to both mountain views and lakeside camping with minimal development. Sites range from 5,000 to 8,000 feet elevation, offering cooler summer temperatures in higher locations. Most accessible camping areas require at least moderate clearance vehicles, while some demand high-clearance 4WD, particularly after rain when dirt roads become challenging.
What to do
Creek exploration: Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area offers access to nearby water features and trails. "Keep going up the road there are more than a few turnouts worth staying at for those of us with tents. We found a decently sized one roughly 4 and a half miles up the road. Beautiful view over the valley," notes camper Andrew S.
Stargazing opportunities: The higher elevations around Spanish Fork provide excellent night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. At Hobble Right Fork Dispersed, one camper mentioned, "Lower light pollution makes the stars pretty visible and there's lots of wildlife as well. I personally like the mix of meadows and trees."
Paragliding observation: Free dispersed camping sites near Utah Lake offer unique aerial viewing. "The view is gorgeous in the mornings and evenings. Watching the paragliders on the weekends is cool as well," shares Robby K. about camping at Miner's Canyon.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Skyline Drive offers creek-side camping spots with shade and natural ambiance. "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," reports Michele.
Mountain panoramas: Many campers appreciate the expansive views from elevated sites. "We camped towards to the top. It had plenty of room for tents amongst the trees and in the field," notes Jeni N. about Squaw Peak Road Dispersed, adding that "words can't describe how beautiful" the location is.
Privacy options: Several dispersed areas provide secluded spots for those willing to search. "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," shares Spencer L.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many access roads deteriorate with elevation gain. "After Hood Campground, a stretch began that was really only suitable for 4WDs. Rocks, deep ruts, etc. We managed it with the 2WD, but we had to give it our all," explains Thomas R.
Seasonal closures occur: Roads to many sites close during winter months, and some remain closed into spring. "Had to hike in because it was closed to vehicles when my wife and I went. It was a fun and beautiful hike," reports Kyler N.
Water access considerations: While Utah Lake borders some sites, water quality varies. "The lake isn't safe to swim or drink from at this time due to algae," cautions John L. about Miners Canyon BLM.
Trash management challenges: Pack out all waste as no services exist. "I didn't give Miner's Canyon five stars because of the excessive trash dumping that occurs at the sites. Otherwise it is a very enjoyable campsite," notes Joshua E.
Tips for camping with families
Select more developed areas: For camping with children, choose areas with minimal hazards. "We stayed 2 nights, and after dusk, the noise was minimal. You can hear some traffic noise from the highway, but it's faint," notes Tyrinn B., who found Skyline Drive suitable for an extended stay.
Check for level ground: Many dispersed sites have uneven terrain that makes tent setup challenging. "You won't need high clearance but a good suspension or airing down will help," advises Whitney W. about Hobble Right Fork.
Consider noise levels: Some areas experience significant recreational vehicle traffic. "This site is an entrance for off roading so it gets noisy and dusty at 8:00 am," warns one camper about roadside camping locations.
Tips from RVers
Larger rigs require scouting: Sheep Creek Camping Area has limitations for RVs. "Road is in ok shape. Only few places small vehicle can park. Not for RV's or larger trucks really. I could barely turn RV around to go out," warns Rick W.
Look for established pull-offs: Many dispersed sites have informal parking areas. "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 anyone's guess," explains Susan C., adding that "some are pretty reasonable, others are like mine fields."
Seek higher elevation in summer: For better temperatures, RVers recommend heading uphill. "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. July day temps in the low 80s."
