Dispersed camping near Wendover offers stark desert camping on BLM land surrounding the Bonneville Salt Flats at approximately 4,300 feet elevation. The area experiences extreme temperature fluctuations with summer highs reaching 100°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. Wind patterns intensify seasonally, particularly during spring afternoons when gusts regularly exceed 25 mph across the exposed terrain.
What to do
Explore nearby caves: At the dispersed camping area near the base of a hill, visitors can explore the surrounding desert terrain. "There is a view of the Bonneville Salt Flats. No hiking trails, but it's easy to wander around in the desert and visit a nearby cave. Very peaceful," writes Fred S. about his Dispersed Site at the Base of A Hill.
Search for agates: The mountains surrounding dispersed camping areas contain interesting geological specimens. Alan B. shares about Volcano Peak Campground: "If you want to rock hound there are better pieces of multicolored agate high up near the ridges of the range. There are still some lower on the slopes but are mostly clear to white from being thoroughly picked over."
Watch wildlife: Early mornings offer wildlife viewing opportunities near the mountain foothills. "We even had some prong horned sheep near us on the mountain," notes Taylor S. when describing her experience at the BLM site by Salt Flats.
What campers like
Unobstructed night skies: The remote location provides exceptional stargazing conditions away from light pollution. Ray W. comments about Volcano Peak Campground: "The wind settled at night and the stars were highly visible due to little light pollution. You can honestly pick your own adventure and there's plenty of space to be far away from other campers."
Cell service availability: Many dispersed sites maintain connectivity despite their remote setting. "Never saw another human but still had Verizon cell service. So quiet, beautiful stars," reports Brian about his stay at the Dispersed Site at the Base of A Hill.
Sunrise views: Early mornings offer spectacular views across the salt flats. Georgia L. from Silver Island Mountains notes: "Camped here to go onto the salt flats for sunrise was a beautiful place. A few people parked here but were far enough away to have privacy, great free place to camp if visiting the salt flats."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed sites often have challenging surfaces. "Road in is passable with 2wd but very washboarded. I used 4 high on a wet, muddy day and still slid around just a bit," explains Niko L. about Volcano Peak.
Wildlife concerns: Small animals may damage vehicles at certain sites. Ashley L. warns at Volcano Peak: "Great spot and loved the view over the salt flats. Rodents chewed through our windshield fluid lines and god knows what else. Very unfortunate lol. 10/10 other than that so just be aware."
Wind intensity: Strong winds are common and can affect camping comfort. Stephanie S. mentions about Lost Boys Peak Campsite: "I remember it was super windy! Not sure if that is a constant thing or just unlucky weather for us."
Tips for camping with families
Bring sufficient water: No potable water exists at dispersed sites around Wendover. The nearest reliable water source is at commercial facilities like the KOA, which has "nice facilities" according to Todd G.
Consider dog-friendly alternatives: For families with pets seeking more amenities, options exist. Jeff L. notes about Wendover KOA: "Good utilities, nice facilities. Excellent access to salt flats and casinos. The park is gravel but there are a few grass patches. The dog park is gravel."
Plan for temperature management: The area experiences extreme temperature fluctuations between day and night. "The temperature was nice, a bit windy at times but tolerable," says Philip D. about his week-long stay at Lost Boys Peak Campsite.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: The sloping terrain requires preparation for parking larger vehicles. Thomas R. from Silver Island Mountains advises: "Some graded camp areas and gravel roads, some are a bit washboard but not too bad. Be ready to level your rig as everything slopes towards the salt flats."
Site selection strategy: Finding the right dispersed site requires driving beyond the initial areas. Kelda C. recommends: "If you're considering staying in the BLM lot at the bottom of the hill, definitely drive the extra few minutes to these sites. Super private, gorgeous views, fire rings and decent cell service."
RV-specific amenities: For RVers needing hookups, limited established options exist. Craig & Linda L. describe the Wendover Nugget RV Park: "Just a level parking concrete pad back in only. No tables just Water electric sewer hook ups. Is a small horse Shoe shape location. Must check in with Nugget Casino hotel desk."
