Best Dispersed Camping near Wendover, UT

Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Wendover, Utah, primarily on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land surrounding the Bonneville Salt Flats. Several free primitive sites include Volcano Peak Campground, Silver Island Mountains, and Rishel Mountain dispersed areas. These sites offer spectacular views of the salt flats and mountains with varying levels of accessibility. According to reviews, most sites feature established fire rings and provide ample space between campsites for privacy. Camping directly on the salt flats is prohibited to protect this fragile natural resource.

Access roads to most sites consist of unpaved, washboard dirt roads that can be navigated by standard passenger vehicles, though high-clearance is beneficial. Several campers noted that "the road is washboarded but totally doable" for most vehicles. Sites closer to the main roads accommodate RVs and trailers, while more remote locations require 4WD. No amenities exist at these primitive sites; visitors must bring all necessary supplies including water. The nearest services are available in Wendover, approximately 15-20 minutes away.

Weather conditions can be extreme with significant wind exposure, particularly for tent campers. Temperatures fluctuate dramatically between day and night. Cell service is generally available but varies by carrier, with Verizon reported as fair to good throughout the area. The night sky offers exceptional stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. Wildlife sightings may include pronghorn sheep on nearby mountains. Visitors should practice Leave No Trace principles, as these areas have no trash collection or sanitation facilities. All sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations or fees required.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Wendover, Utah (12)

    1. Volcano Peak Campground (Dispersed)

    39 Reviews
    Wendover, UT
    5 miles
    Website

    "You can’t camp on the salt flats but this is the next best thing. Unpaved road but very reasonable for even 2WD."

    "Private and quiet spot off the highway to camp near the Salt Flats. If you get a spot that can prevent some of the major winds in this area it will be best for you if you’re camping in a tent."

    2. Silver Island Mountains by Bonneville Salt Flats

    9 Reviews
    Wendover, UT
    4 miles

    "Set up camp near Bonneville salt flats above the Silver Island Mountains backcountry byway. There are many campsites and all are far away from each other. As well as far away from highway."

    "This is right next to the highway near Bonneville Flats. You can see the highway, but I can’t hear it right now, probably tonight I will be hearing it more. Couple of other campers just spread out."

    3. BLM by Salt Flats - Dispersed Site

    8 Reviews
    Wendover, UT
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "Exit Bonneville Speedway. Head N past Sinclair (on right)."

    "This particular spot is at the base of the mountains and had a large flat area perfect for our Sprinter, a fire pit, and large rock formation great for climbing."

    4. BLM Site next to Salt Flats

    4 Reviews
    Wendover, UT
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 320-8300

    "Super close to the Bonneville salt flats. Large open area and would accommodate larger rvs and then some off-road spots that would need to be for 4x4."

    "There is a gas station nearby which is great and a trucker stop to stay at if you so choose. I didn’t stray far from the main road but other vehicles were pretty far out."

    5. Rishel Mountain Dispersed Sites

    4 Reviews
    Wendover, UT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "We were able to drive in fairly easily despite long stretches of washboard roads and minor ruts. The surrounding area is beautiful and the night sky was stunning."

    "Just off the I-80 on your way to Wendover. The main things here are the views. I would recommend getting here close to sunset and leaving shortly after sunrise."

    6. Pilot Peak Lookout

    3 Reviews
    Wendover, UT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "Bonneville Speedway Access Rd > Left on Leppy Pass Rd till you reach a strange mysterious government building > Right on Silver Island Loop Rd > veer right on Volcano West Rd

    Dope spot on"

    "The wind on top of the hill was brutal around 8pm so I went back down the road a little ways to set up camp.
    Not many people here in late June and it is pretty warm, in the mid 80's."

    7. Bonneville Salt Flats BLM

    4 Reviews
    Wendover, NV
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "You cannot camp on the salt flats but you can camp on the BLM property right north of the flats. The road will Y branch to the left of going to the parking spot of the flats."

    "I’ve loved visiting and driving across the Bonneville salt flats for decades."

    8. Lost Boys Peak Campsite

    2 Reviews
    Wendover, UT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "The road in here was a bit bumpy, a washboard type dirt road. But other than that it was a great place to camp. The weather was nice, a bit windy at times but tolerable."

    "We were able to find plenty of camp spots for our off road trailer but I bet any trailer could make it as the road was not crazy bumpy or anything. I remember it was super windy!"

    9. Dispersed Site at the Base of A Hill - BLM

    2 Reviews
    Wendover, UT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "The dispersed site that I camped at is about 100 yards north of this particular site on an unnamed dead end track. Both sites are located off of Lower Rishel Peak Rd."

    10. Cave Hill Dispersed Site

    1 Review
    Wendover, UT
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "If you have 4x4 and some ground clearance you can make it to the top. Great secluded spot."

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Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Wendover, UT

75 Reviews of 12 Wendover Campgrounds



Guide to Wendover

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Wendover, Utah, where vast landscapes and serene environments await outdoor enthusiasts. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in nature.

Dispersed campers should check out Volcano Peak Campground

  • The Volcano Peak Campground (Dispersed) provides stunning views of the mountains and salt flats, making it a perfect backdrop for a peaceful getaway.
  • Campers appreciate the privacy offered here, as sites are well-dispersed, allowing for a tranquil experience away from neighbors.
  • Accessing this site can be challenging due to washboard roads, so it's best suited for those with vehicles that can handle rough terrain.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Wendover, Utah

  • When visiting the BLM by Salt Flats - Dispersed Site, be prepared for limited amenities; there are no drinking water or electric hookups available.
  • This area is known for its breathtaking sunrises over the salt flats, making it an ideal spot for early risers and photographers alike.
  • Keep in mind that the road conditions can be bumpy, so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended for a smoother experience.

Enjoy breathtaking views while free camping near Wendover

  • The Silver Island Mountains by Bonneville Salt Flats offers numerous dispersed sites with ample space between campers, ensuring a quiet and relaxing atmosphere.
  • Be aware of the flies that can be bothersome before sundown, but once the sun sets, the area transforms into a peaceful retreat perfect for stargazing.
  • This location is also great for those who enjoy exploring, as there are plenty of opportunities for wandering in the surrounding desert landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Wendover, UT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Wendover, UT is Volcano Peak Campground (Dispersed) with a 4.9-star rating from 39 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Wendover, UT?

TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Wendover, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.