Tent campsites near Torrey, Utah range from riverside spots to wooded mountain settings. The area spans elevations from approximately 7,000 feet to over 9,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between camping locations. Primitive camping areas typically require visitors to travel unpaved roads, with higher elevation sites becoming inaccessible after snowfall, usually from October through May.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Oak Creek Reservoir provides fishing access in a remote setting. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting fishing conditions.
High-elevation hiking: Sites at Elkhorn Recreation Site connect to mountain trails. "This is a really nice campground it is primitive with some out houses and picnic tables. You are in the quackies and in the trees. It is higher elevation so make sure you bring your coat," notes camper Brad B.
Wildlife observation: Bear sightings occur in forested camping areas. One camper at Polk Creek Road Dispersed Camping reported: "There is a mama bear and cub in the area although we didn't see her."
Cathedral Valley access: Continuing past camping areas on forest roads leads to more remote viewpoints. "If you follow the road all the way up you can access Cathedral Valley Campground (great views from up there)," reports Azaali J.
What campers like
Temperature differences: Higher elevation sites offer escape from summer heat. "Weather is cooler than in Capitol Reef so it's a nice place to recharge and escape the heat," notes a camper about Polk Creek Road camping.
Secluded riverside spots: Fremont River Dispersed Site offers water access with privacy. "Right outside of capitol reef national park. Camping right on the water, plenty of room & some privacy," reports Danielle S.
Stargazing opportunities: Minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. Campers at Spencer Flat Dispersed Camping report, "it's quiet and dark. All cars should be capable."
Early morning views: Sunrise perspectives vary by camping location. One camper at Burr Trail notes their "site overlooked a small canyon and wash and provided great sunset and sunrise views."
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Access requirements differ by location and season. About Burr Trail Rd Dispersed Camping, one camper states: "This spot is just before you head down into Long Canyon on the Burr Trail Rd. Approx 30 to 45 min from Boulder."
Primitive conditions: Most sites lack basic facilities. A Spencer Flat camper reports, "There are absolutely no services or amenities here. Great views into Steep Creek Canyon."
Wind exposure: Some sites experience significant wind due to elevation and terrain. "The weather was amazing but a little windy as its on a bluff," notes a camper about Burr Trail.
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary by season and location. One camper at Polk Creek Road advises, "Lots of firewood in close vicinity so no need to bring any in with you (check for fire restrictions before)."
Tips for camping with families
Bear safety protocols: Store food properly at forested sites. "Be ware of bears. Use the food boxes," advises a camper at Barker Reservoir Area.
Kid-friendly recreation: Some sites offer space for children's activities. Brad B. shares about Elkhorn Recreation: "there is still plenty of room for the kids to bring bikes and 4 wheelers."
Water access considerations: Riverside campsites allow easier water activities. At Fremont River, a camper describes "Several little roads dispersed all along this area so if you miss one just go to the next. Right along the little Fremont river but also right off the road."
Cold nights year-round: Higher elevations require proper sleeping gear even in summer. "It is higher elevation so make sure you bring your coat. We stay up here quite often during the elk hunt," notes one Elkhorn camper.
Tips for RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: Some sites demand high-clearance vehicles. About Horse Canyon Camping, Barbara L. cautions: "High clearance vehicles only. We hit out bumper in one spot with 11" of clearance on the truck. No trailers or RVs."
Site sizing considerations: Limited level spaces exist for larger vehicles. Michael O. notes about Burr Trail: "40+ foot 5th wheel, 4x4 Ram. After a conversation with the Info center in Cannonville, we chose to drive through Long Canyon, past the Long Canyon overlook to Wolverine Loop Road."
Seasonal road access: Spring mud and winter snow affect site availability. The road to Elkhorn "is dirt and sometimes can have ruts and is bumpy but has really good access and is well maintained."
