Dispersed camping opportunities near Springdale, Utah range from 4,000 to 6,500 feet in elevation, creating varied camping conditions throughout the year. The area receives approximately 15 inches of rainfall annually, mostly during summer monsoon season when afternoon thunderstorms are common. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations while summer daytime highs often exceed 100°F.
What to do
Explore waterfall hikes: Leeds Canyon Dispersed #1 offers easy access to nearby natural features including a historical kiln. One camper noted, "A sweet little trail leading to a historical kiln... It was only a 1-2 block walk to Leeds Creek to sit on a rock and soak feet in creek."
Visit less-crowded climbing areas: Lambs Knoll Climbing Site Camping serves as a dedicated area for climbing enthusiasts with established tent sites nearby. "This is a new very nice parking area with a vault toilet that has been developed by the BLM for folks climbing the nearby rock features," explains one visitor who appreciated the designated camping areas.
Stargaze away from light pollution: Tent campsites near Springdale often provide excellent night sky viewing opportunities. At Zion Glamping Adventures, one camper shared their experience: "The view here at night is AMAZING. There's barely any light pollution here so it was a stargazers dream."
Backpack to remote sites: For experienced hikers seeking solitude, La Verkin Creek Trail Campsites offers backcountry camping with permit requirements. A visitor to Campsite #10 reported, "Hiked in via Hop Valley, easy in, tough out. The Campsite is nestled in some ponderosas up off the bank of the stream, which you have to cross from the trail."
What campers like
Creek access for cooling off: Several camping areas near Springdale feature natural water features. At Kolob Road BLM Dispersed, campers appreciate the ambient water sounds: "We stayed here for a night by Zion and loved it. It was just off the road, but not too much traffic noise. The little river by the site is very pretty."
Spaced-out sites for privacy: Many dispersed camping areas offer good separation between campsites. One Leeds Canyon visitor noted, "Beyond gorgeous views with camping spots really spread out!"
Easy access to trailheads: Location near popular hiking destinations makes certain sites particularly valuable. A camper at Kolob Road BLM noted it was "Just 8 mins from the Left Fork subway trail head makes this spot ideal for those looking for an easy early start."
Panoramic desert vistas: The landscape surrounding tent campsites near Springdale provides dramatic scenery. At Kolob Terrace Road, a camper enjoyed that "The sunset from this site was gorgeous! Panoramic views. Convenient 25 minute drive to Zion National Park."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many dispersed sites require navigating unpaved roads. At Kolob Road BLM Dispersed, one reviewer cautioned: "Small tight area to get into...strongly do NOT recommend TTs or any RV at this BLM spot due to steep downhill rd and no turnarounds! Tent or van nomads only due to no tt turnarounds!"
Seasonal crowding affects availability: Spring and summer bring more competition for campsites. A Kolob Terrace Road camper observed: "Spring Break week every site was packed. We had to wait for someone to vacate before finding something that would work."
Weather preparedness is essential: Desert conditions can change rapidly. One Leeds Canyon camper shared: "It was also very windy at night (but not during the day) when I went, but I'm not sure how common that is throughout the year for the area. At the very least, it was windy enough when I was there that I was getting legitimately worried about the well-being of my tent."
Pack out all waste: Poor stewardship impacts these free camping areas. One camper at Leeds Canyon reported: "The only negative would be solely blamed on Humans.. 'LEAVE NO TRACE' pick up your trash! I picked up a full bag of booze bottles, trash, Easter candy & tons of broken glass and dishes, tp."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with reliable access: When camping with children, consider accessibility. For Leeds Canyon, a camper advised: "Gravel road to the sites was well maintained, but sometimes narrow. Campsite was spacious for our 25' Class C Winnebago View."
Look for natural features kids can explore: Water features provide entertainment for children. At Kolob Road BLM Dispersed, campers report: "Surrounded by the beginning mountains of zion. Had the campground to myself had multiple sites here with firepits next to the creek to spend the day in."
Consider developed alternatives during peak times: For families needing more certainty, established campgrounds may work better. At Zion View Camping, visitors can access amenities while maintaining a natural setting, though availability requires planning ahead.
Bring sufficient water supplies: With no reliable water sources at most dispersed sites, families need to pack accordingly. Most tent campsites near Springdale, Utah require complete self-sufficiency for water needs.
Tips from RVers
Scout before committing: Several dispersed camping areas have limitations for larger vehicles. For Leeds Canyon, one RVer suggested: "We went with 26ft trailer mid march. As someone else mentioned it is good for rv only on the first four or so. After that we wondered how we were going to turn around."
Consider size restrictions: Not all camping areas accommodate RVs equally. A Kolob Road BLM visitor warned: "Tent or van nomads only due to no tt turnarounds!"
Be prepared for dust: Proximity to unpaved roads affects air quality. At Leeds Canyon, an RVer noted: "Sites are along a well maintained FS gravel road so dust may be a concern."
Plan for limited amenities: Most free camping areas lack hookups or facilities. At Kolob Terrace Road, tent and small RV camping works best with self-contained setups.
