Top Free Dispersed Camping near West Bountiful, UT

Looking for the best dispersed camping near West Bountiful? Dispersed camping means that no facilities or amenities are provided, so that you can truly disconnect and get back to nature. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Utah excursion.

Best Dispersed Sites Near West Bountiful, UT (28)

    Camper-submitted photo from Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts
    Camper-submitted photo from Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts
    Camper-submitted photo from Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts
    Camper-submitted photo from Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts
    Camper-submitted photo from Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts
    Camper-submitted photo from Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts
    Camper-submitted photo from Mineral Basin Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Mineral Basin Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Mineral Basin Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Mineral Basin Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Mineral Basin Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Mineral Basin Dispersed

    2. Mineral Basin Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    31 Photos
    537 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed

    $6 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site

    3. Cascade Springs Dispersed Site

    8 Reviews
    33 Photos
    518 Saves

    Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest outside of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no toilets, no treated water, and no fire grates are provided. Camping in dispersed areas on the Forest is allowed for fourteen (14) days in any thirty (30) day consecutive period. Campers must move off Forest after reaching the 14-day limit. The stay limit also applies to all camping equipment (tents, chairs, ATVs, ATV trailers, etc.), even if used by a different person or group. Camping equipment must be removed by the end of the fourteen (14) day stay limit or the equipment may be impounded. Stay limits are implemented to reduce impacts to vegetation and wildlife habitat, as well as provide access to popular campsite areas for other visitors. There are extra responsibilities and skills that are necessary for dispersed camping. It's your responsibility to know these before you try this new experience. In most areas, dispersed camping is allowed up to 150 feet from a designated Forest Service Road, with some exceptions. Exceptions are based on protection of resources that may include water quality, soil conditions, and wildlife & fish habitat. No Dispersed camping within 100 feet of water (we recommend 200 feet). No dispersed camping where topography or existing vegetation limits vehicle travel (e.g. steep terrain, trees, brush). No dispersed camping within wet meadows or in saturated soil conditions. In these areas, walk-in tent camping and picnicking are allowed, however vehicle travel into these areas may be restricted. The public is asked to use existing pull-outs off the main road and walk in to take advantage of these areas that help provide clean water, productive soils, and habitats for fish and wildlife. Forest users can obtain Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM’s), that show where dispersed camping is allowed and roads and trails that are designated open to motorized vehicles

    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Millcreek Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Millcreek Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Millcreek Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Millcreek Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Millcreek Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Millcreek Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat

    5. Salamander Flat

    8 Reviews
    14 Photos
    409 Saves

    Salamander Flat trail connects the Timpooneke trail head with the Salamander Flat dispersed camping area and the Pine hollow trail. The trail starts by crossing a stream, then travels through large stands of fir trees, and crosses the road approximately 1 mile from the trailhead. The Salamander Flat dispersed camping sites and Junction with the Willow Hollow trail is .5 miles farther up the trail. From the dispersed sites, it is another .6 miles to the junction with the Pine Hollow trail #047. Trail users should be aware of the high level of use that this trail receives, and should expect to see each type of user group on any given day. This trail is subject to a wet trail closure order during the spring and early summer. These closures help to protect and sustain the trail during wet periods. The trail will be signed as closed to all uses except hiking when these closures are in effect. Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest outside of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no toilets, no treated water, and no fire grates are provided. Camping in dispersed areas on the Forest is allowed for fourteen (14) days in any thirty (30) day consecutive period. Campers must move off Forest after reaching the 14-day limit. The stay limit also applies to all camping equipment (tents, chairs, ATVs, ATV trailers, etc.), even if used by a different person or group. Camping equipment must be removed by the end of the fourteen (14) day stay limit or the equipment may be impounded. Stay limits are implemented to reduce impacts to vegetation and wildlife habitat, as well as provide access to popular campsite areas for other visitors.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Neffs Canyon Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Neffs Canyon Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Neffs Canyon Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Neffs Canyon Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Neffs Canyon Dispersed Site

    6. Neffs Canyon Dispersed Site

    2 Reviews
    5 Photos
    131 Saves
    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Dispersed
    • Firewood Available
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Peaks Wilderness Area - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Peaks Wilderness Area - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Peaks Wilderness Area - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Peaks Wilderness Area - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Peaks Wilderness Area - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Peaks Wilderness Area - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Albion Basin - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Albion Basin - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Albion Basin - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Albion Basin - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Albion Basin - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Albion Basin - Dispersed

    8. Albion Basin - Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    10 Photos
    189 Saves
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Tent Cabin
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from Squaw Peak Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Squaw Peak Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Squaw Peak Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Squaw Peak Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Squaw Peak Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Squaw Peak Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Desolation Primitive Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Desolation Primitive Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Desolation Primitive Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Desolation Primitive Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Desolation Primitive Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Desolation Primitive Sites
Showing results 1-10 of 28 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In West Bountiful

107 Reviews of 28 West Bountiful Campgrounds


  • r
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Mountain Dispersed
    Oct. 15, 2024

    Eagle Mountain Dispersed

    Remote but hard to get to

    This is BLM. A couple of different camping sites. Most have fire rings but no water or bathrooms. You will need a 4x4 with high clearance to get up the mountain (the road is rough). There are sites at the bottom of the mountain that you can get an RV or car in but those are crowded and around the shooting range. We had a great time at the top with beautiful views and quiet. Nobody else around. oHV area too.

  • Mike
    Camper-submitted photo from Miner's Canyon Dispersed
    Oct. 3, 2024

    Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    Very quiet and secluded

    Arrived very late. Very easy to find. Directions brought us right to the location. Road was rough into the sites and were hard to determine specific sites. Ended up pulling into edge of field. Definitely a good quiet night's sleep

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Cascade Springs Dispersed Site

    Great Camping and Off-Roading

    The views are great but the road is definitely washed out. You will need 4WD and high clearance to pass through the washouts and rocks which start near the entrance and go all the way to the top.

  • Maya G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Miners Canyon BLM
    Sep. 17, 2024

    Miners Canyon BLM

    It was fine

    Rough roads. The main one isn’t so bad but the side roads are awful. Tons of flies. Like actually so many. Campsites are far away from each other which was nice. Fire ring was filled with trash. Lake is disgusting, dead fish on shore and trash, don’t swim in it. An obviously “long term” resident said he wouldn’t swim in it, one of the factories on the other side of the lake dump into it.

  • Devin B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Sep. 11, 2024

    Salamander Flat

    It’s a campsite

    After a long day of travel we just wanted to get to any site and camp. This is a national forest so there is technically a park permit required. However, we have an annual park pass and they accept that as well. It is an honor system kind of park permit. They ask you to scan the QR code or pay at the self pay station. $10 for a 3day pass, $20 for a 7 day pass.

    The drive up to this site is winding and the cars seem to be used to driving it because they come around the corners pretty fast. Drive carefully and stay on your side of the road. It site is just after mile marker 17.

    The site is huge! Lots of space for people, cars, RVs and trailers. The road is paved until you turn in and then it’s a regular dirt road.

    The major con in this park in general is the bathrooms are yucky especially at this site.

    This seems to be a local hangout for the youngsters as well. They were not a bother to us however, they were letting loose, having a good time at their site. They left around 11 or so.

    No service with AT&T

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin
    Sep. 6, 2024

    Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin

    Quiet and peaceful

    We stayed here for the night on our rooftop tent. It’s very quiet, barely any people. There’s man made firepits made out of rocks of people who have stayed here. It’s chilly and very pretty around. Nice view of the sunset. There’s no cell service.

  • Skylar G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Cascade Springs Dispersed Site

    Best views in Utah?

    I want to start positive and say that the views are some of the best! Mt Tiponogous is in full view and the panoramic views are all great as well. It was only my group that camped up there the night we camped, but a couple people did drive by for some off road action. Speaking of off road action, the road is atrocious. Dont come unless you have some serious high clearance 4wd vehicle or you will bottom out and destroy your vehicle. I’m saying this as someone from Lake City CO who grew up driving the Alpine Loop, the road is BAD!

  • Ben H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Squaw Peak Road Dispersed
    Aug. 17, 2024

    Squaw Peak Road Dispersed

    Bumpy road

    The road leading here is very bumpy. There are two specific spots that are really bad. 4x4 is almost a requirement. I did however see some people make it up in a van so it is possible. The coordinates lead to an open field with a lot of campsites. I would suggest parking in the lot a little further ahead on the left. This road is a popular destination so people ride up and down it a lot. The views are well worth it and there is also some hiking trails around here as well. There are more dispersed camping sites further along this road. I was able to get a very spotty one bar signal of Verizon while near the coordinates.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo

    Absolutely Perfect

    We could not have asked for a more perfect spot. The views were immaculate, the sites were very spread out, it was the end of September and all the leaves were changing.

    No notes. Can’t recommend this spot enough.

  • Elvira M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Miners Canyon BLM
    Jul. 19, 2024

    Miners Canyon BLM

    Busy

    It was very easy to find, since we could see RV since a long way down the road. We turned in and took one of the first sites though there were a lot of RVs further down.

    A lot of the RVs looked like they were laughing the 14 day limit, almost to the point we were convinced they were living at this site. There was also several people with lose dogs, which made us not wanting to go closer to the water.

    Otherwise the site itself is OK, it’s a little uneven, but we managed fine with our RV.

  • John H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Jul. 9, 2024

    Salamander Flat

    Utah has the worst system

    All the sites said no reservation, first come first served, but they were all reserved with no campers. Camp host, as usual, nowhere in sight. I've camped in 43 states for decades and Utah is easily the worst state to camp at due to this system of theirs.

    Also the drive up there is about 6 miles of winding hell with idiot children driving so fast I'm surprised there's not a death every day.

  • Bryce R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo
    Jun. 23, 2024

    Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo

    Tons of free camping in the area.

    There are tons of free site all up and down the main road. The only problem is it is busy if you leave on Friday plan to get there by 3 at the latest. Spots fill quick.

  • Lilly A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Springs Dispersed Site
    Jun. 22, 2024

    Cascade Springs Dispersed Site

    Beautiful but not private

    Honestly, the only saving thing about this campsite is how beautiful it is. It truly feels like you are on top of the world. But, there were many downsides and we will not be returning. First, the road to get there was horrible. Don’t go up there unless you’re ready to do some off-roading. Second, the campsite had zero shade — so make sure to bring a canopy of some sort; there are no trees around the site. Third, the campsite is all gravel, so if you have a dog, be careful they don’t burn their paws (it was hot! We had to keep our dog in our man-made shade)! Lastly, at least 20 cars drove through the campsite per day, and this seems to be a spot a lot of people stop and get out and walk around. Then, someone set up camp right next to us! So, if you truly want to primitive camp, where it’s just you and nature, and have privacy, this is not the place to go.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Miner's Canyon Dispersed
    Jun. 21, 2024

    Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    Nice free spot near Salt Lake City

    Easy drive into the area, paved road up until you turn down toward the lake. Nice gravel road for the next half mile. 6 other RVs here when I stopped on June 20th.

    A little loud from the generators but sound of waves from the lake help drown it out.

    Some established fire pits. Overall the place was clean and felt safe.

  • Conner The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Skull Valley Rd Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 17, 2024

    Skull Valley Rd Dispersed Camping

    (Along 196) Endless off road fun and private dispersed

    First of all there is no pull out at the coordinates. In fact it represents just as a reference for the highway road off the 80 highway you go along 196 and there are pull off roads leading to either straight up the side of a mountain or along the valley.

    I parked at lone rock which is basically just a shooting range. You name it they obliterated it with ammo. Oh well I climbed to the top of the lone rock which was pretty epic. Fucking windy night and dusty I hate dust so much. Maybe if I parked down road inside the sagebrush it would have broke the wind. Also lone rock was full of trash :(

    Glad I live in lush Colorado away from these deserts. Except alamoda area I guess.

  • Steven B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Horseshoe Knoll - Dispersed Camping
    May. 2, 2024

    Horseshoe Knoll - Dispersed Camping

    Quiet

    Stayed for 1 night. Very quiet and private. I imagine if during the busy season this place would not be a great place to stay but the last week of April was not busy and it was very quiet.

  • Kim J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Skull Valley Rd Dispersed Camping
    Apr. 28, 2024

    Skull Valley Rd Dispersed Camping

    Silver mountain byway

    My favorite place to camp. Other campers are respectful at night and friendly during the day. Nights are quiet and the moon is usually super bright.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Salamander Flat
    Nov. 22, 2023

    Salamander Flat

    Breathtaking view!

    I actually stayed a bit earlier on (at a trailhead parking lot; didn’t see any signs that said I couldn’t) down the road because this section of the road was closed and I just have to say what a fantastic view! The mountains up here are truly breathtaking and I would highly recommend staying anywhere in this area if you can. The weather was quite cold and crisp but worth every second of it. The night was quiet as I spent most of it in my car but the sunrise was like no other. Highly recommend

  • Adrea D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Miners Canyon BLM
    Nov. 4, 2023

    Miners Canyon BLM

    It's a pretty spot

    The road gets graveled but dirt bikes and ATVs come through and mess it up some. Some of the spots have seen better days. If you get a good spot it's great. The view is pretty. Beware of coyotes if you have animals.

  • BoneMonkey ..
    Camper-submitted photo from Horseshoe Knoll - Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 21, 2023

    Horseshoe Knoll - Dispersed Camping

    Exposed, loud, buggy, but easy access

    Camped 10/20-22/2023. Lots of horse flys during the day, and evening/dusk swarms of mosquitoes along with morning just before sunrise. Without our screened in sun shelter, we would have been miserable. 

    Lots of four-wheelers and UTVs using the knoll and the trails. Extremely loud and stirs up lots of dust.

    The no shooting/firearms sign at the entrance did not deter multiple shooters that were close by. There was lots of shooting and we found many empty shell casing laying about.

    Many of the trails had fire pits built in the middle of them with lots of nails and broken glass laying everywhere. Be very careful driving a vehicle back onto the knoll.

    Most level camping areas will be to the North/South of the actual knoll. Its also ideal to came around the knoll not only for level ground, but to avoid getting in the way of the four-wheelers/motor bikes. 

    We got cell service with both T-Mobil and Verizon. 

    No bathrooms, water, and very little shade shelter.



Guide to West Bountiful

Camping near West Bountiful, Utah, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore Antelope Island State Park: This park is famous for its stunning views and wildlife. One visitor at Bridger Bay Campground said, "Beautiful views of the lake. Hook ups were really easy to use for the trailer."
  • Water Sports at Jordanelle State Park: Enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming. A camper at Hailstone - Upper Fisher Campground mentioned, "Clean campground with access to water sports, and very close to Park City."
  • Hiking Trails: There are numerous trails around the area. One camper at Granite Flat noted, "The drive and location is beautiful. The campground is large and there is a lot of privacy."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking landscapes. A review for Anderson Cove states, "Tucked away from SLC, it's a perfect little oasis."
  • Wildlife Sightings: Many enjoy spotting local wildlife. A visitor at Bridger Bay Campground shared, "Watching sunset on the lake and seeing bison lounging on the beach was magical."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and well-maintained sites are a big plus. A camper at Salt Lake City KOA said, "The facilities were clean. The hook ups worked great even in the snow."

What you should know:

  • Bugs Can Be a Problem: Some campgrounds have issues with bugs, especially near water. A camper at Bridger Bay Campground warned, "The camp host did send out a notice about the bugs before our arrival, but we did not anticipate the literal swarms of no-see-em's and mosquitoes."
  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads or train tracks. A review for Salt Lake City KOA mentioned, "Sleep was not great with the freight trains blaring through the night."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Little Mill noted, "The site is off the main canyon road and there is some traffic noise during the day."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for places with playgrounds or water access. A camper at Echo Island RV Resort said, "This was my dog's favorite campground so far. They have so much room to walk, and plenty of wildlife around to keep them interested."
  • Plan for Noise: If your family is sensitive to noise, consider campgrounds away from roads. A review for North Fork County Park mentioned, "The water levels were high so the creek was running pretty fast which made it loud but honestly it drowned out any noise from neighbors."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and earplugs for a better night's sleep. A camper at Little Mill advised, "Definitely bring ear plugs or plan to stay only a night or two."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure the campground has the right hookups for your RV. A visitor at Hailstone - Upper Fisher Campground noted, "The sites are well spaced and have been staggered so that the site across from you does not block your view."
  • Be Prepared for Wind: Some campgrounds can be windy. A camper at Granite Flat mentioned, "Was super windy during our stay and the wind howled."
  • Look for Family-Friendly Amenities: Choose campgrounds with pools or game rooms. A review for Salt Lake City KOA highlighted, "The games room and pool were closed for the season but we had fun with polypong and basketball."

Camping near West Bountiful, Utah, has something for everyone. Whether you're in an RV or tent, you'll find beautiful spots to enjoy nature and make lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near West Bountiful, UT?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near West Bountiful, UT is Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts with a 4.1-star rating from 7 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near West Bountiful, UT?

    TheDyrt.com has all 28 dispersed camping locations near West Bountiful, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.