Camping near Vernon, Utah provides access to remote desert landscapes at elevations around 4,500 feet. The region experiences temperature swings of 30-40°F between day and night, particularly in spring and fall. Most roads to dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles due to rutted conditions, with local campgrounds offering limited cell service outside major carriers.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Vernon Reservoir Campground offers fishing for tiger trout and other species. "The reservoir had good fishing; we caught a couple tiger trout. We camped in early October and the algae was extreme," notes one visitor to Vernon Reservoir Campground.
Stream exploration: Clover Springs Campground features a small natural waterway perfect for children. "It has a nice little creek. Great for kids and dogs to play in. Very few deep spots. Not really a fishing spot and if you were to catch it would be small," reports a camper at Clover Springs Campground.
OHV riding: Seven Mile Pass area offers extensive trails for off-highway vehicles. "This is a large area in the west desert available for disperse camping. No services and no water, and not particularly scenic. It's fun to ride ATVs and go shooting," states one reviewer who frequented the area.
What campers like
Mountain views: Miner's Canyon Dispersed camping provides panoramic vistas. "Easy drive into the area, paved road up until you turn down toward the lake. Nice gravel road for the next half mile... Overall the place was clean and felt safe," says a camper at Miner's Canyon Dispersed.
Paraglider watching: From certain dispersed sites, you can watch paragliders on weekends. "The view is gorgeous in the mornings and evenings. Watching the paragliders on the weekends is cool as well," mentions a visitor to Miner's Canyon.
Solitude during weekdays: Campgrounds near Vernon are significantly less crowded midweek. "I didn't get a place but the location seemed nice with a little creek. A bit colder here due to the mountains. There is benches and a bonfire place at each spot," reports a visitor to Ophir Canyon Campground.
What you should know
Wind conditions: Many camping areas experience significant wind, particularly in exposed sites. "There's no shade so be prepared. It's not spectacular and heavily used by the ATV crowd but you can easily find a decent place for an overnight," advises a camper about Seven Mile Pass.
Water availability: No potable water exists at most dispersed sites. "No bathrooms anywhere, it's as roughing it as it can get. And the wind sometimes is fierce and relentless," states a visitor to Miner's Canyon Dispersed.
Seasonal temperature variations: Nights can drop below freezing even when days are warm. "We went in March and it was a little cold, but we setup the trailer and the heater worked great. There are several dispersed areas around for the weekends when this place is probably crowded," notes a camper at Vernon Reservoir Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Creek access for kids: Clover Springs offers a shallow creek ideal for children. "We stayed here last summer and will probably go back again in a couple weeks. It's a nice little campground if you have a water filter," recommends a visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Settlement Canyon provides chances to see deer and other wildlife. "We woke up to see cows in the morning which the kids loved. Had some great areas for hiking and is really close to the reservoir for some awesome fishing," shares a camper at Settlement Canyon.
Mine exploration nearby: Cherry Creek area features old mines that can be explored with proper vehicles. "My friends and I go here every year to go camping! It's a fantastic place to go and explore old mines and great views! Just bring your side by sides and/or four wheelers," suggests a visitor to Cherry Creek.
Tips from RVers
Campground levels: Many sites require leveling blocks for trailers. "Sites are fairly level. However you will definitely need blocks if you bring a trailer/pull behind. Got the last site. Definitely get near the water and trees if you can," advises an RVer at Clover Springs.
Generator noise considerations: Running generators can disturb neighbors in quieter campgrounds. "Fun little place. Well known judging by the number of people camping there. Overall fairly quiet and enjoyable evening," notes a camper at Miner's Canyon Dispersed.
Limited hookups: Most sites are dry camping with no services. "I like that this locations feels primitive, but isn't far from civilization. We went in March and it was a little cold, but we setup the trailer and the heater worked great," shares an RV camper about Vernon Reservoir.
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