Dispersed camping areas around Tabiona, Utah sit at elevations between 6,800-8,500 feet, creating temperature variations of 15-25°F cooler than nearby urban areas during summer months. The region falls within the Ashley National Forest and Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest boundaries, with most free camping sites accessible via forest roads that remain open from late May through October, depending on snowfall and conditions.
What to do
Fishing at multiple alpine lakes: Several small lakes around Pyramid Lake Dispersed Camping offer trout fishing opportunities. "The trout were very active midday into the late afternoon. The only other people that came up were riding UTVs," notes one visitor to Pyramid Lake.
Hiking established trails: Trail networks connect many dispersed camping areas, with varying difficulty levels. "We camped on a peninsula right on the lake and set up our hammocks and started a fire. Fly fishing is great here, just remember your fishing license," mentions a camper at Pyramid Lake.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings provide opportunities to spot native wildlife. At Soapstone Basin Dispersed Camping, one camper reported: "Later I was told female squirrels will sneeze after mating! Not sure that's entirely true but the sneezing part was pretty cute!"
Off-road exploration: Forest roads accommodate various vehicle types for backcountry access. "If you drive further up, you'll find a nice variety of camping spots. My favorites are up towards the top," explains a visitor to Mill Hollow.
What campers like
Temperature relief from summer heat: The higher elevation provides natural air conditioning. "Headed up this way to escape the valley heat. Temps are significantly cooler," reports a camper at Soapstone Basin.
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution creates optimal stargazing conditions. At Mill Hollow Dispersed Camping, a visitor shared: "The sunsets, the moon out during the day, and the stars at night...just incredible!"
Waterfront camping options: Several areas offer sites adjacent to streams or lakes. "We camped here a couple times and I absolutely love it. You'll find the lake pretty soon after you've driven the gravel road for a few minutes where you can fish or just hang out," explains a Mill Hollow camper.
Mixed forest environments: The terrain features diverse vegetation patterns. "The Wasatch National Forrest is beautiful. There are many hidden lakes to explore and lots of big trees to help keep cool in the summer," notes a visitor to Soapstone Basin.
What you should know
Road condition considerations: Access roads vary significantly in quality. At Wolf Creek Pass Primitive Areas, a camper advises: "Come in on Hwy 35 to the summit and Wolf Creek Campground. Turn left into the grounds then left again to get to the road that leads to the FR91 which will take you back to the primitive areas."
Seasonal insect activity: Biting flies and mosquitoes affect some locations during summer months. "Every site in every area from here to mill hollow is packed with swarms of biting flies. Seriously," warns one Wolf Creek Pass visitor.
Limited cell service: Connectivity is unreliable throughout most dispersed areas. One camper noted: "I had ZERO AT&T service from the moment I crossed state lines from the north."
Variable site privacy: Camp spots offer different levels of seclusion. "There were lots of different site options... Some of them are fairly close together, but there's a good amount of visual privacy from trees etc. We didn't have any issues with loud neighbors which was super nice."
Tips for camping with families
Scout for level camping surfaces: Many dispersed areas have uneven terrain. At Juniper Point, a camper notes: "Finding level ground is somewhat challenging. We drove to the improved camping area and pay for shower use."
Pack additional water: No reliable water sources exist at most sites. "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."
Monitor weather forecasts daily: Mountain conditions change rapidly. "Camped here early last October and was surprised to end up having a very snowy adventure!"
Bring multiple layers: Temperature swings exceed 30°F between day and night. One visitor experienced how "high altitude means extreme weather is common so prepare accordingly!"
Tips from RVers
Scout ahead before towing: Many forest roads become progressively more challenging. One camper at Currant Creek Rd Dispersed advises: "Plenty of dispersed spots along the ridge road. Most have easy pull in access and fire rings. Beautiful views from multiple spots along the ridge but comes with the expected exposure to wind/sun."
Prepare for active weekends: Traffic patterns intensify during peak times. "Main road is dirt, was there on 6/28 weekend. No stop traffic!!! I'm full time rv'er. Never seen anything even close to this."
Ridge locations trade privacy for views: Higher elevation sites offer vistas but less shelter. "More privacy for the spots further along the road some nestled in beautiful aspen groves."
Check clearance requirements: Road conditions vary seasonally. "This area has many camp sites to choose from, traveling from the highway 150 will absolutely require 4x4 but the other end could manage without."
