Dispersed camping opportunities around Sterling, Utah exist primarily within Fishlake National Forest at elevations ranging from 7,000-8,000 feet. The area features juniper forests, open meadows, and access to several mountain biking and UTV trails. Road conditions vary significantly with seasonal changes, becoming particularly challenging after rainfall or during spring runoff.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: In West Fork - Whiskey Creek dispersed camping area, wildlife sightings are abundant. As one camper noted, "If you're looking for a fun backpacking camping trip where you're guaranteed to see tons of wildlife, this is it... You can park at the trailhead and hike up only 2 miles before you start seeing deer and elk everywhere."
Target practice: The terrain at some sites creates natural backstops for shooting activities. At Willow Creek Bowl, one visitor mentioned, "Access to a 'hollow' with a high bank that's perfect for target practice of any kind."
UTV trail access: Several rustic camping areas near Sterling connect directly to trail networks. A camper at Jimmy's Fork noted, "Many places to camp. For best selection arrive in the middle of the week. Good UTV trails nearby."
Backpacking with kids: Some areas offer shorter hikes suitable for children while still providing seclusion. At Whiskey Creek, a parent shared, "Was able to hike in with my 8 year old, and he loved it. Great secluded dispersed spot for wildlife watching."
What campers like
Privacy and solitude: Weekday camping provides the most secluded experiences in the Sterling area. At Fish Lake National Forest Campsite, a visitor observed, "We pulled in after sunset to stop before going all the way north to SLC... There was a roundabout at the coordinates and another van was there, but there looked to be 3-4 more small spots for tents or vans."
Accessibility from main roads: Many primitive camping sites require minimal travel from highways. One camper at Fillmore Wildlife Management Area mentioned, "Spent a couple nights here and it was perfect for our circumstances. The road was a little rough the further east we went but it worked out okay."
Mountain biking access: Some sites provide direct access to biking trails. A camper at Willow Creek Road noted, "This was a great site to stop and pitch my rooftop tent. Not too far up the canyon, and it was very quiet. It is RIGHT next to a mountain bike trail, so expect some early-morning bikers to be coming down."
Scenic sunset views: Several sites offer unobstructed western exposure. A visitor mentioned, "Campsite I stayed at/the drive up is amazing during sunset."
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Many access roads become problematic after precipitation. At Fillmore Wildlife Management Area, a camper warned, "Wouldn't want to be here if it was raining, looks like it would be slimy."
Cattle presence: Free-range cattle frequent many dispersed camping areas near Sterling. At Dispersed West Fork 8 Mile Road, a camper reported, "I found a spot on Eight Mile road, just off i-15, near the east side of the national forest... Not another person in sight except for maybe 2 cars that drove by during the night. Plenty of cows and cow patties around though!"
Water sources limited: Plan to carry sufficient water for your stay. One camper at Willow Creek Bowl noted, "It's a bit of a walk to the creek for water, so bring lots."
Elevation considerations: Many sites sit at higher elevations with cooler temperatures. A camper at Willow Creek Road observed, "You are at almost 8000 ft so not a winter camping spot."
Tips for camping with families
Choose locations with natural features: Select sites that offer built-in entertainment. At Ephraim Manti Dispersed, a camper shared, "This was fun! It was about 45 minutes to an hour out of town and lots of twisty roads, the scenery was pretty. I'm just happy I found a place to go camping with my love and set up our hammocks!"
Create bathroom solutions: No facilities exist at dispersed sites. A camper at Willow Creek Bowl advised, "No toilets, so bring your own or be prepared to dig a latrine."
Consider wildlife encounters: Some areas have reported wildlife activity near tents. One camper at Fish Lake National Forest Campsite warned, "I do not recommend tent camping here solo though. This wasn't my first time tent camping solo either. As I was laying in my sleeping bag inside my tent around 11pm, some creature started stalking me around midnight."
Pack extra layers: Temperature fluctuations can be significant at higher elevations. Morning and evening temperatures often drop substantially, even in summer months.
Tips from RVers
Spot selection limitations: Many rustic camping areas near Sterling have limited spaces for larger vehicles. A camper at Fish Lake National Forest noted, "Super easy access for any car if roads are dry. Lots of places to get back in the junioers a lil and have a nice private place to sleep."
Cell coverage varies: Connectivity differs significantly between sites. A camper reported, "Got to road after dark / left before dawn and easily found my way in and out of area. Really quiet despite being so close to the interstate."
Arrive early on weekends: Competition for suitable spots increases Friday through Sunday. One camper suggested, "For best selection arrive in the middle of the week."
