Tropic, Utah sits at 6,260 feet elevation at the eastern edge of Dixie National Forest. The area features dramatic sandstone cliffs and pinyon-juniper woodlands, with temperatures averaging 32°F cooler than lower elevation destinations in summer. While developed campgrounds remain open through mid-October, many dispersed camping areas in national forest land stay accessible year-round, though some dirt access roads become impassable after rain.
What to do
Trail riding from equestrian sites: Coyote Hollow Equestrian Campground connects to several regional riding routes. "This small equestrian cg has only 4 large back in spots. Vault toilet but no garbage or potable water. Livestock water in season, but not potable to drink for humans," notes Greg L. from Coyote Hollow Equestrian Campground.
Boondock near Bryce Canyon: Position yourself close to the national park without the crowds or fees. "Ten miles to Bryce Canyon visitor center and 9 miles west to the Red Canyon visitor center. Off-road vehicles are allowed in the area but few passed nearby and none were bothersome," reports Tom W. from FS #117 Rd Dispersed Camping.
Explore Red Canyon: Visit the often-overlooked Red Canyon area with similar geology to Bryce but fewer restrictions. "Bryce was nice, but Kodachrome is twice-as-nice. Seriously though, tough and rapidly changing bike trails, amazing scenery, fresh new, clean, well designed, beautiful campsites," shares Jenn H. who stayed at Bryce View Campground.
What campers like
Natural privacy: Sites spread across the forests provide seclusion. "Just kept following the roads through the woods until I found a campsite along a ridge. Very beautiful views and clean camping areas. 2wd acceptable to get up there through the woods," explains Allan C. about dispersed camping near Tropic.
Dark skies: The distance from major cities makes for excellent stargazing. "The stars were gorgeous and plentiful and we witnessed a meteor shower in late May," writes Michael D. from FR3623 Dispersed.
Wildlife viewing: The varied terrain supports diverse animal populations. "Pronghorn deer come every day morning and afternoon," reports Adam B. who camped at Tom's Best Spring Road in Dixie National Forest.
High elevation cooling: Summer temperatures remain comfortable even when surrounding areas get hot. "At 8100' elevation it's a great place to beat the heat. Sites can be all sun or all shade. Many first come first serve, which is good for a last minute trip," explains Colette K. from Pine Lake Campground.
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access to horse campgrounds near Tropic requires preparation. "The road in needs a high clearance 4 wheel drive vehicle. We could not drive in. The camping spot looked nice, quiet and tucked away. But also right by a stream, and prone to muddiness after rain," warns Justin C. about Henrieville Creek.
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary by season and location. "No charcoal or open fire. The ditch to get in to the place can be deep. But definitely nice spots nice and quite," notes Mark D. about Tom's Best Spring.
Limited facilities: Most sites around Tropic lack amenities. "No running water, no sewage, no electricity, so come prepared," is common across all reviews of dispersed camping areas.
Seasonal closures: Access changes throughout the year. "All roads that lead to dispersed camping sites in the Bryce Canyon area are closed by the NPS," reported Caitlin H. in April, though most reopen by May.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Water features provide recreation options. "The lake was pretty low when we got there, but there's easy enough access from the campsite," mentions Jen R. about Pine Lake Campground, adding "it seemed like this was the best camping in the area if you want something remote enough to feel like you're camping."
Easier access sites: Look for spots that don't require difficult driving. "We drove in about a mile on a nice gravel main road. Found a nice secluded spot about 100 yards off the main road," explains Mark B. who stayed at Tom's Best Spring Rd.
Pack for temperature swings: Prepare for cold nights even in summer. "We had a big open spot with trees for hammocks and there was a fire pit which came in handy since it got super duper cold," advises Michael D. about dispersed camping.
Bug protection: Insects can be problematic in certain areas. "The bugs were relentless. On one occasion, a horsefly bit through my husbands shirt, so be sure to pull out of the bug repellent hacks you can find!" warns Sunshine M.
Tips from RVers
Solar availability: Campers with solar systems can find suitable spots. "Among the tall pines yet enough sunlight for solar panels. Four bars of AT&T 4G," notes Tom W. about dispersed camping off FS #117 Rd.
Site selection for bigger rigs: Several areas accommodate larger vehicles. "Plenty of available sites, many drive through. Many could accommodate our 35' motorhome," shares Tom W.
Cell connectivity: Remote work is possible from select locations. "Excellent camping spots. Good road. Plenty of spaces for big rigs. Shade if you want it, open fields for solar if needed. Verizon cell service was excellent," reports Savannah from Losee Canyon.
Road preparation: Expect washboard surfaces on unpaved routes. "That 5 mile drive on the gravel road to get to the campsite is no joke — tie down everything that can be tied down," advises Jen R. about the approach to Pine Lake Campground.
