Torrey sits about 11 miles from Capitol Reef National Park's western entrance and serves as the closest town for dispersed camping on the surrounding BLM land and adjacent Fishlake National Forest. No water, no restrooms, no trash service at dispersed sites in this zone. Pack in a full supply of water since there are no reliable natural sources at most sites, and what appears on older maps is often seasonal.
BLM land along Highway 24 west of Torrey and the forest roads south toward Boulder Mountain have dispersed sites in both directions. The lower-elevation BLM sites are accessible by standard vehicle on most maintained gravel. Boulder Mountain roads climb above 10,000 feet and require high clearance on unpaved routes, with snow closures from November through May at the highest elevations. Fire restrictions apply through much of summer, so check the Richfield Field Office for current status. The 14-day stay limit applies across both BLM and forest land.
Capitol Reef's dispersed camping covers the options immediately adjacent to the park boundary, about 11 miles away. Torrey-area cabin campgrounds give a higher-comfort alternative if dispersed sites aren't the right fit for the group. Best with a high-clearance vehicle.
"We spent a week along Beas Lewis Flat Road just outside of Torrey, to explore Capitol Reef National Park. This is free BLM dispersed camping with a 14-day stay limit, no sites or services provided."
"Easy drive in, wide, dirt roads. Must be at least a hundred different sites."
"We had not dabbled into BLM (Bureau of Land Management) camping before, but this experience would encourage us to utilize it throughout the rest of our year-long trip to the national parks."
"We were not planning on going to Capitol Reef on our Utah trip but we got some unexpected snow at Canyonlands so we headed out early. So glad we made the trip!"
"Just to let folks know, this is not a BLM site. BLM sites have a pay station right when you pull into the campground."
"Most spots are obvious with back in or pull through parking, but other areas are more open and just up for the taking."
"Right outside of Torrey Utah. Multiple sites to choose from. Some very close for larger rigs and some far out the multiple dirt roads for those able to be more adventurous and seeking more privacy."
"Very quiet and right off the highway. Plenty of spots mostly level. Can be very windy. Good t-mobile coverage"
"This area is right off the road and it spans over quotes some distance. Depending on your mode of transportation you can get pretty far **back. **"
"If you’re someone who hasn’t upgraded to 4x4 yet, you won’t have issues accessing this site. Can’t speak for spots not directly in the entrance."
"Cool dispersed spot with great views. There’s a canyon that you can park pretty close to the edge. Some spots probably need 4x4 with decent clearance, but most are accessible if you drive slow."
"If you follow the road to the GPS spot you have to travel through a gate and a corner of private land to continue onto BLM land. You can access from the other side but ut will take a while."
"Fantastic dispersed camping area with stunning g views of the surrounding red rock formations and dark skies for star gazing. There is tons of space, especially the further back you drive."
"Easily traveled dirt road in. I drive and F250 but there were multi smaller vehicles and RVs. Great views a good amount of wind so be careful with your fires."
"Lots of tent camping sites too. There is some city light in the distance but still great spot for the night sky. Close to Capitol Reef so day trips were easy."
"This dispersed camping area provides a free place to stay right outside of Capital Reef."
"Pros: Pretty flat wherever you park. Very close to Capitol Reef National Park. Cons: Close to road so can be loud with traffic."
"Easy to find and plenty of spots available with several trails originating at the campsite and exceptional views of the surrounding landscape."
"Up on a mesa (not super high that it’s a tough climb), on Notom road which is paved, then turn on dirt road not far from Hwy 24 (maybe 1/4-1/2 mile)."
"Easy accessible blm land just outside capitol reef np. Great views in every direction. No wood fires permitted"
TravelerJust passed the park sign from the north there is a Spur Road with five primitive fairly dispersed sites. It's about half a mile down from the South Temple wash Campground. No facilities no picnic tables firings and the sites are well spread out. The road is fine for 35 ft Class A with tow. Excellent Verizon service.
TravelerRight outside of Torrey for access to food and fuel. Road is hard packed and easy to navigate. Campsites are spaced far enough apart to have some privacy.
TravelerHard packed roads with well spaced sites with firepits. Amazing views and good cell coverage. We love this spot!!
RangerThis hike is amazing. We brought our dog along. The end is absolutely gorgeous. There were a few sites around but it’s mainly just the trailhead parking lot, with little to no cover. No amenities. The panel is worth it
TravelerEasy drive to get to camp area, about 15 miles up a paved road into beautiful national park. There are about 15 spots in the Aspens, we went all the way to end and camped against Cold Spring lake.
Area was pretty full in October with lots of people deer hunting.
GuidePulled in at sunset had a fire ring along the water, facilities were clean and traffic died down by 10ish
GuideOur second visit as beautiful as the first. Quiet, remote with spectacular views
TravelerLittle crowded but tons and tons of spots along the road.
TravelerArrived after dark. Was easy to find a spot. Allot of others were close by but not too close
Primitive camping near Torrey, Utah offers direct access to Capitol Reef National Park's landscape without established facilities. The area sits at approximately 6,800 feet elevation with temperature variations of up to 30°F between day and night. Most dispersed sites around Torrey are situated on BLM land with rocky terrain requiring careful tent stake placement during frequent high winds.
Hiking Capitol Reef trails: From Capitol Reef National Park Dispersed Camping, campers can reach popular trails within minutes. "During our five days in the park, we had some favorite activities: backpacking in Upper Muley Creek, hiking to Cassidy Arch, picking and eating fruit right off the trees in the historic orchards, hiking the tough Navajo Knobs trail, and, most of all, the Sulphur Creek trail through a narrow beautiful creek with three waterfalls to climb down," one visitor reports.
Explore nearby canyons: Many sites offer canyon access right from camp. "There's a canyon that you can park pretty close to the edge. Some spots probably need 4x4 with decent clearance, but most are accessible if you drive slow," notes a camper at Capitol Reef Dispersed Camping.
Trail access from camp: Cooks Mesa Trailhead Dispersed offers immediate trail access. "The trailhead is right there, so it's perfect! Probably 10-15 sites if you look around and get deep towards the hills," explains a reviewer.
Sunset viewpoints: Elevated camping spots provide excellent sunset watching. At Overlook Point Dispersed Site, a camper noted, "Easy to find & pretty smooth road to some nice spots. Beautiful view! Easy access to downtown Torrey & Capitol Reef National Park."
Cell connectivity: Unlike many remote areas, most Torrey dispersed sites maintain cell service. "Great spot to pull out for the night or more. We stayed 2 nights due to its proximity to town and capitol reef NP... Great sunset and sunrise spot, with 2 bars of T-Mobile service," reports a Cooks Mesa Trailhead visitor.
Protected fire pits: Many sites feature well-built stone fire rings that provide wind protection. "One site had an epic rock fire pit that created a perfect little oven on a windy night," shares a camper at Cooks Mesa Trailhead Dispersed.
Wind conditions: Most sites experience significant wind due to their exposed positions. At Beas Lewis Flat Dispersed, a camper warned, "This is a beautiful spot not far at all from the Park. You're up on a beautiful bluff but we won't stay again due to relentless wind. Zero wind in the park just a 15 min drive away but the wind here was just terrible."
Tent challenges: The rocky ground makes traditional stakes ineffective. "The ground is solid rock and it can be windy, so tents might have a rough time. Perfect for car camping and vans," notes a Capitol Reef Dispersed camper.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality. "If you follow the road to the GPS spot you have to travel through a gate and a corner of private land to continue onto BLM land. You can access from the other side but it will take a while," explains a Capitol Reef Dispersed Camping visitor.
Avoid exposed sites: For families with children, seek protected spots. "We camped down in the gully a little to get out of the wind. Beautiful view of thousand lake mountain and surrounding red rock. From our campsite we could hear the creek which was about 10 feet below," suggests a visitor at Capitol Reef Dispersed Camping.
Find established areas: The most family-friendly sites have defined boundaries. "Plenty of sites available. If you're someone who hasn't upgraded to 4x4 yet, you won't have issues accessing this site. Can't speak for spots not directly in the entrance. Limited shade but if you get lucky you will find a spot with a tree or two," explains a camper at Cooks Mesa Trailhead.
Check for wildlife: Some sites have small wildlife concerns. "Was only here for an overnight and a rat crawled up into our warm engine bay and chewed through our fuel injector copper wires. Had to spend the whole afternoon in Bicknell at Park Auto supply fixing the damage," warns a visitor at Overlook Point.
Clearance considerations: RVers should scout before committing to a spot. "We got a little overzealous with the clearance. But, we just got a little overzealous with the clearance. There are plenty of spots that are easily accessible," explains a camper with a 26-foot Class C at Beas Lewis Flat Dispersed.
Ridge access: Many RVers recommend specific areas. "We were able to drive up on a high ridge of the pull-out area that the RVs could not easily access, so we felt alone and watched the gorgeous sunsets from our campsite each night," reports a visitor at Capitol Reef National Park Dispersed Camping.
Site distribution: For larger rigs, several areas offer suitable space. At 1280 Beas Lewis Flat Road, "This site located between Capital Reef NP and Torrey Utah is large and welcoming. Diverse rigs can be accommodated with reasonable privacy. Ridge views and protected valley locations."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find dispersed camping near Torrey, Utah?
One of the most popular dispersed camping areas near Torrey is Beas Lewis Flat Dispersed, located just outside town. This area offers numerous sites along a dirt road with a 14-day stay limit. The first areas off UT-24 get busy, but driving further in reveals more secluded spots. Another option is Hole in the Rock Road Dispersed at Utah 24, which is conveniently located about a quarter mile off Utah 24 with level spaces suitable for large RVs. Both locations provide excellent access to Capitol Reef National Park while offering the freedom of dispersed camping with no facilities or fees.
What are the BLM camping options near Capitol Reef National Park?
BLM land surrounding Capitol Reef offers multiple dispersed camping options. Capitol Reef National Park Dispersed Camping provides a free alternative to the park's developed campground. These areas have become popular for visitors looking to explore the park without paying for accommodations. Haycock Ranch Road BLM is another excellent option with spread-out sites and minimal neighbors, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. This area offers good Verizon cell service and serves as a central location for exploring multiple parks in the region. All BLM sites in the area typically have a 14-day stay limit with no facilities, so come prepared with all supplies.
Are there any free camping sites available in Torrey, Utah?
Yes, Torrey is surrounded by free camping options on public lands. Temple Mt. Rd. Dispersed offers free wilderness camping on state land between BLM areas, often providing a better experience than nearby established campgrounds. Another free option is Road 1280 East of Torrey Utah, which accommodates large RVs and provides convenient access to Capitol Reef National Park. Most dispersed sites around Torrey follow standard BLM rules: 14-day maximum stays, pack in/pack out trash policy, and no provided facilities like water or toilets. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and be prepared with all necessary supplies when utilizing these free camping areas.
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