Best Dispersed Camping near West Jordan, UT

The Wasatch Mountains surrounding West Jordan, Utah feature predominantly dispersed camping options within an hour's drive of the city. Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts offers tent sites with basic amenities like toilets and trash service, while areas such as Twin Peaks Wilderness and Lone Peak Cirque provide more remote hike-in experiences. Most sites in the region require permits, with many being free but primitive. The landscape transitions from urban proximity to alpine wilderness, with elevations ranging from valley floor to mountain peaks above 10,000 feet, creating diverse camping environments from desert scrub to alpine meadows.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many dispersed sites requiring high-clearance vehicles. As one camper noted, "The main road in is fairly easy to navigate but if you venture off the main path you'll want a vehicle with clearance and possibly 4X4." Seasonal considerations are important, as mountain roads may be impassable during winter and spring runoff. Summer brings intense heat at lower elevations while higher sites remain cooler. Cell service is typically unreliable in canyon areas, with several reviewers mentioning complete loss of reception. Most dispersed sites enforce a 14-day stay limit and require adherence to Leave No Trace principles, with no services or hookups available.

Mountain views and night skies receive consistent praise from visitors to the area. "Stunning views of the surrounding mountains, hardly any light pollution, so the stars were amazing," reported one camper at Hobble Right Fork. Wildlife sightings, including elk, deer, and occasionally bears, add to the experience. Seasonal challenges include mosquitoes and flies during early summer, particularly at dusk. Several reviewers mentioned issues with motorized recreation traffic disrupting the peace at certain sites. Water access varies by location, with some campers filtering from streams while others recommend bringing all necessary water. Fire restrictions are common during dry summer months, though many sites feature established fire rings when conditions permit.

Best Dispersed Sites Near West Jordan, Utah (42)

    1. Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts

    8 Reviews
    Mounthaven, UT
    17 miles
    Website

    "You can backpack in and camp anywhere a 1/2 mile from any road like the other nearby canyons. Good trails to approach from are Church fork and Lambs Canyon Trailhead."

    "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."

    2. Lone Peak Cirque Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Alpine, UT
    14 miles

    "I've been wanting to summit Lone Peak since I first moved to Utah in 2012. "

    3. Mineral Basin Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Alta, UT
    22 miles

    $6 / night

    "Campground Review: Mineral Basin is located in the Wasatch Mountains to the East of Salt Lake City."

    "The ride up to mineral basin was dirt roads with amazing views. The campsite we settled on was absolutely beautiful."

    4. Neffs Canyon Dispersed Site

    2 Reviews
    Millcreek, UT
    13 miles

    "We frequently come up here just to sleep outside some nights and head back home in the early morning to get food and shower."

    5. Twin Peaks Wilderness Area - Dispersed

    1 Review
    Mounthaven, UT
    15 miles

    "These are all backcountry sites and you have to be at least a 1/2 mile from any road before camping.  The best spots are more than a mile in at the meadows anyway!"

    6. Miner's Canyon Dispersed

    19 Reviews
    Saratoga Springs, UT
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 977-4300

    "Great option just south of salt lake. The lake and Mountain View are beautiful! Pretty flat, the road in is fairly easy."

    "Landed with large windows facing lake, lovely.

    Starlink is a little slower, but maybe cos I am roaming. 60 meg down, 7 or 8 meg up."

    7. Salamander Flat

    8 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    23 miles
    Website

    $10 / night

    "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."

    "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"

    8. Sawmill Picnic

    4 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    20 miles
    Website

    "Second all slots are extremely close to Alpine road. Wonderful day spot, bummer we couldn’t stay the night!"

    9. Cascade Springs Dispersed Site

    8 Reviews
    Mutual Dell, UT
    24 miles
    Website

    "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."

    "There was a weird spot when Google maps told us to go right (staying on the paved road) while there was an "alternate" route up a dirt road to the coordinates on the dyrt."

    10. Albion Basin - Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Alta, UT
    21 miles

    "Area is not illuminated, as is expected, so I prepared a headlamp and a backup lantern for the hike."

    "Another beautiful dispersed campground site that sits in a beautiful meadow at the top of one of the busiest canyons in the country!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 42 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near West Jordan, UT

161 Reviews of 42 West Jordan Campgrounds



Guide to West Jordan

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near West Jordan, Utah, where nature awaits just a short drive from the city. Experience the tranquility of the outdoors while enjoying various recreational activities in stunning landscapes.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near West Jordan, Utah

  • Many dispersed camping spots, like Mineral Basin Dispersed, require a permit, so be sure to check the regulations before heading out.
  • Bring your own firewood, as some areas do not provide it, and always follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the environment pristine.
  • Be prepared for varying road conditions; for instance, the road to Cascade Springs Dispersed Site can be rough, requiring a high-clearance vehicle.

Enjoy breathtaking views while free camping near West Jordan

  • The Pittsburg Lake Dispersed area offers stunning fall foliage and excellent stargazing opportunities, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  • If you’re looking for a secluded experience, Lone Peak Cirque Dispersed provides breathtaking views and a chance to escape the crowds, but be ready for a challenging hike.
  • For those who enjoy hiking, Albion Basin - Dispersed is conveniently located near trails leading to beautiful lakes and scenic vistas.

Dispersed campers should check out Salamander Flat

  • Salamander Flat is a spacious area that accommodates both tents and RVs, making it versatile for different camping styles.
  • This site is popular among locals, so arriving early on weekends can help secure a good spot away from the noise of nearby gatherings.
  • With picnic tables and nearby trails, Salamander Flat is ideal for families looking to enjoy a day of outdoor activities before settling in for the night.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near West Jordan, UT is Millcreek Canyon Backcountry Camping and Yurts with a 3.8-star rating from 8 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 42 dispersed camping locations near West Jordan, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.