Dispersed camping opportunities dominate the Thompson area landscape with multiple Bureau of Land Management sites scattered throughout the region. Located at approximately 5,000 feet elevation, these sites experience temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night even during summer months. Most dispersed camping locations require at least 2-3 miles of travel on unpaved roads that deteriorate significantly after rain.
What to Do
Morning hiking at Klondike Bluffs: Located near South Klondike Bluffs / Road 142 Dispersed, these trails offer cooler temperatures before midday heat. "There's tons of sites if you keep going towards the back but I wanted service so I was just off the pull off. Beautiful sunset and my cat loved to roll on the dirt," reports camper atea J.
Stargazing after 10pm: With minimal light pollution, most sites offer exceptional night sky viewing. At BLM 144 Dispersed, one visitor noted, "Plenty of room up there, gorgeous!" The best viewing occurs 2-3 hours after sunset when the moon is below the horizon.
Photography at Salt Valley: Capture dramatic landscape shots during golden hour lighting. "Camped right on the rim. Limited AT&T service," reports a visitor at Salt Valley, making it ideal for those seeking solitude while shooting landscape photos without modern distractions.
What Campers Like
Proximity to national parks: Many campers appreciate the strategic location for accessing nearby attractions. "Only 30 minutes from both Canyonlands and Arches National Parks and is about 40 minutes from the town of Moab. The site is reasonably priced," notes Joshua G. at Ballard RV Park.
Cell service reliability: For those needing to stay connected, certain areas maintain good coverage. "Full cell service w AT&T. Great sunrises. I found a spot near the entrance, but plenty of space to roam around," shares Malcolm C. about the State Land Road #144 Valley City sites.
Cost-free alternatives to Moab: Budget-conscious travelers value the free options. "Anything goes, just pack out what you bring in! I ride an adventure motorcycle so I can hit all the trails from here!" explains Brian R. at Dispersed Camping Outside of Moab - Sovereign Lands, highlighting the accessibility for adventure motorcyclists.
What You Should Know
Vehicle requirements vary significantly: Many sites require appropriate vehicles. "High clearance would be good if you want to go deep down into spots that are more rocky and sandy but if not you can find spots right along the road," advises Luke L. about Salt Valley dispersed camping.
Weather impacts road conditions: Clay roads become impassable when wet. "This area is a bentonite clay roads and DO NOT camp here if wet or possibility of significant moisture in future, you will get stuck," warns Greg L. about the State Land Road sites.
Noise factors to consider: Highway and rail traffic affect some sites. At Cotter Mine Road Dispersed Sites, one camper observed, "Great sunset/view but cars were driving by a lot from about 6-9. You can hear and see the highway traffic. Also the train and power lines."
Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites offer no facilities. "There are tons of spots to make your own little home for the night. Most spots have fire rings that have been made out of rocks by other campers or legit fire rings," explains Bailey A. about dispersed camping outside Moab.
Tips for Camping with Families
Seek out established sites with toilets: Some areas provide basic facilities suitable for families. "Very clean with hand sanitizer and GOOD, fluffy toilet paper. Ground is hard to drive stakes into, so bring some para cord if tenting. Watch out for cactuses," advises Ben R.
Consider dinosaur-related activities: The region offers paleontological sites kids enjoy. "The kids loved climbing the rocks and bonus there is a trail with dinosaur tracks!" shares Chelsey M. about her experience at Willow Springs Trail.
Timing matters for privacy: Early arrival ensures better site selection. "If you come after 3pm a lot of the good spots are taken and then you have to squeeze in so get there early to grab a spot!!" recommends Tris W. about dispersed camping areas.
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions first: Larger RVs should scout ahead. "NOT for bigger rigs! We knew better. Should not have been on that road in our fifth wheel. No turnarounds once we started on a steep, bumpy road with sharp turns. Broke a leaf spring," warns Kinnard about Salt Valley.
Consider established RV parks in Thompson: For full hookups and amenities. "Sites are gravel, level and very well maintained. All are pull through. Hookups are in excellent condition. Sites had plenty of room, many had tables and some had fire pits," shares Richard &. about Ballard RV Park.
Utilize early arrivals for level sites: Finding flat spots takes time in most areas. "There is a bit of a dip in the road so be careful on that but was fine to drive, go slow," advises Chrissy B. about accessing the best places to camp near Thompson, Utah.
