Dispersed camping near West Jordan, Utah offers a variety of primitive sites within a 30-60 minute drive of the city. These undeveloped camping areas range from 4,500 to 11,000 feet elevation, with summer temperatures often 10-15 degrees cooler at higher elevations than in the Salt Lake Valley. Many sites require backcountry permits and can be accessed using high-clearance vehicles, though some demand more technical hiking skills.
What to do
Trail running and hiking in Millcreek Canyon: Millcreek Canyon is accessible for outdoor activities year-round with numerous trails. "Millcreek Canyon is home to some wonderful trails that can be accessed by foot or bike. Although the canyon offers many hiking trails, the main use of the trails seems to be for trail running," notes Sean H. about Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts.
Alpine climbing expeditions: For experienced mountaineers, Lone Peak Cirque offers technical climbing opportunities. "I've been wanting to summit Lone Peak since I first moved to Utah in 2012. Since then I've become an avid climber/mountaineer and decided that the only way I'm gonna stand on top is if I climb the 500' cirque walls to the top," shares Alan B. about his experience at Lone Peak Cirque Dispersed.
Off-road adventures: Many dispersed sites around West Jordan provide access to off-road vehicle trails. "The ride up to mineral basin was dirt roads with amazing views. The campsite we settled on was absolutely beautiful," reports Mike L. from Mineral Basin Dispersed.
What campers like
Proximity to the city: Many campers appreciate how close primitive camping areas are to West Jordan. "This is our go to camping spot when we want to get outside, but not drive too far from the city. You can still feel secluded, even though it fills up quickly on the weekends," explains Connor O. about Mineral Basin Dispersed.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The mountains around West Jordan host diverse wildlife. "We frequently come up here just to sleep outside some nights and head back home in the early morning to get food and shower. There is plenty of hikes but there's only a few with views that are worth it," notes Shariah T. about Neffs Canyon Dispersed Site.
Water access: Several sites feature streams or lakes for recreation. "We love Millcreek Canyon for camping, hiking, or even just going up for dinner at their day use spots. Pet friendly. One of our families favorite canyons. We take tubes and float in areas of the river. The kids play in the river," shares Kelli R.
What you should know
Road quality varies dramatically: Many dispersed sites require navigating rough terrain. "This season there are some fairly deep ruts especially as you get to less popular roads and closer to campsites. That being said it was more than worth the trip," advises landon B. about Cascade Springs Dispersed Site.
Seasonal closures affect access: Many roads close seasonally due to snow or maintenance. "Road closed as of 3/12/21," reported Jessica Y. about Squaw Peak Road Dispersed. Always check current conditions before departing.
Limited facilities: Most primitive sites lack amenities. "All the camping is backcountry so you can pick any trail and just make sure that you are 1/2 mile off the road and at least 200 ft from developed ares and water," explains Dan G. about Millcreek Canyon.
Tips for camping with families
Consider established picnic areas for day trips: Some areas offer day-use options that work well for families. "My boyfriend and I car camped here for the first time and it was great! There are multiple spots to set up camp with private fire pits and trails nearby," notes Valerie T. about Salamander Flat.
Water play opportunities: Kids enjoy stream access at certain sites. "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," reports Devin B.
Plan for noise at some sites: Certain locations experience regular traffic. "Nice area and large camping sites. Toilet available. There's a river to play in at a pull off just a few minutes down the road. Tons of trails. A couple of deer wandered right through our campsite," shares Ash S.
Tips for RVers
Limited big rig access: Most dispersed sites near West Jordan aren't suitable for large RVs. "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," reports Clayton P. about Miner's Canyon Dispersed.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies by location. "Starlink is a little slower, but maybe cos I am roaming. 60 meg down, 7 or 8 meg up. Visible and Verizon pretty good," notes Kevin H.
Generator etiquette: Be mindful of noise in shared areas. "A little loud from the generators but sound of waves from the lake help drown it out," adds Clayton P.
