Dispersed camping sites near Whiterocks, Utah occupy elevations between 6,000-8,400 feet in the Ashley National Forest and surrounding BLM lands. Winter closures typically extend from November through May on forest roads, with summer temperatures ranging from 45-85°F. Cell service varies significantly by carrier, with AT&T generally providing better coverage than Verizon in most locations.
What to do
Mountain biking at McCoy Flats: Access 46 miles of non-motorized singletrack trails suited for all skill levels at McCoy Flats MTB Trailhead. The trail system is designed for mountain bikers but welcomes hikers. "This trail system boasts 46 miles and 15 trials for all skill levels. If you are a mountain biker, this area is not to be missed," notes one reviewer.
Foraging opportunities: Collect seasonal berries and mushrooms in the higher elevation camping areas. "I spent 25 days camp on top the mountain above the meadows and hiked well over 100 miles in the back country. I spent my days foraging for mushrooms and berries to which I had found plenty of," reports a camper at Massey Meadow Camping Area.
Cave exploration: Visit Massey Cave near the meadow camping areas for underground exploration. "There are a lot of beautiful places you can explore, including Massey Cave," suggests a visitor who recommends the connected trail systems in the area.
Hiking the Flume Trail: Connect camping areas via the scenic riverside Flume Trail. "The Flume Trail runs next to the river, and is absolutely beautiful. It's huge for mountain biking and hiking, and offers 10 to 24 miles of trail," notes a reviewer who frequents the Dry Fork/Red Cloud Loop area.
What campers like
Seclusion and privacy: Multiple camping areas offer spots far from other campers. "Well off the beaten path. Nearest boondocking neighbor is over a mile away," reports a visitor to McCoy Flats. Another camper at Dog Valley Camp Near Vernal notes, "Our site was private and no ATVs so it's pretty quiet too."
Wildlife viewing: Many campers report diverse animal sightings across the region. A visitor at Massey Meadow observed, "The scenery and wildlife was amazing. Deer, birds, moose and mountain lions cover this range," making the area appealing for nature photography.
Stargazing conditions: Minimal light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing opportunities. "Stargazing!!" exclaims one enthusiastic camper at Massey Meadow. Another at McCoy Flats adds, "The stargazing was unreal," highlighting the clear night skies of this rustic camping region near Whiterocks.
Aspen groves: Many camping spots feature scenic aspen stands that provide natural shade. "I have a beautiful site amongst aspens/pines. Large pull thru spot, no neighbors, and quiet," shares a camper at Range Study Area - FS Road #217.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles. "The road was pretty rough, some large divits and larger rocks on the road. I drive an outback so I just went slow and it was fine," notes a visitor to Utah Forest Road 13 Dispersed Camping. Another camper warns, "FS road #13 has large diameter cobble base and makes for a bumpy road."
Limited facilities: Most sites offer minimal or no amenities. Kane Hollow provides a vault toilet but "no trash dumpsters, water or fire rings and tables." Similarly, at Range Study Area, there's "a single vault toilet at the cattle guard close to the hwy. No dumpsters, water, tables, or metal fire rings."
Weather can change rapidly: Higher elevations experience significant temperature fluctuations. "Weather can be unpredictable in the Uintahs, so prepare for anything! We've had hail and snow in July!" warns a visitor to Windy Park Camping Area.
Trailer staging areas: Some camping zones become storage areas for local hunters. "This site had about 6 trailers that seemed to allow be pre-staged for the hunting season. No tow vehicles or people around," reports a visitor to Kane Hollow, noting similar situations at other dispersed sites.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible sites for children: Choose camping areas with open spaces for play. Range Study Area offers "a great place to let dogs and kids run," according to a reviewer who appreciates the combination of forest and meadow areas.
Educational opportunities: Incorporate wildlife identification into family activities. "There is all kinds of wildlife in this area including deer, chip munks, squirrels, elk, and occasionally a bear," notes a camper at Range Study Area who recommends proper food storage.
Multi-generational activities: Select sites that offer varied recreation options. "Horses, hiking, large family areas, things to do here year round. Spring-summer-fall-winter you can ski and snowshoe in the winter and camp, hike, bike, ride horses, the rest of the year," suggests a North Fork visitor.
Temperature management: Higher elevations provide relief from summer heat. One camper at Range Study Area shared, "I was at Steinaker State Park near Vernal, UT and it was H O T! Needed cooler temps and found FR 217 with an elevation of 8400' - ahhh…temps in 70's."
Tips from RVers
Best sites for larger rigs: McCoy Flats area accommodates bigger vehicles. "There's 3 miles of road you can disperse camp off of. If you drive 1.5 miles in, thought toilets were added in a really nice area on your left. I stayed there and there was ample room for 10+ rigs & lots of privacy," notes a visitor.
Cellular connectivity: Coverage varies by carrier across camping areas. "Full service on AT&T and Verizon. The town of Vernal is close by with a Walmart less tan 10-15 minutes," reports a McCoy Flats camper who recommends the area for full-time RV living.
Pest prevention: Take precautions against rodents in parked vehicles. "During my last night, I did have some rodents try to get underneath of my hood so if you're going to be staying stationary for multiple nights, be aware," warns a McCoy Flats visitor.
Turnaround space: Scout forest roads before committing with larger vehicles. "I would not go up this road with a trailer unless you had a turnaround open," cautions a camper about Forest Road #13, suggesting RVers should "check out FS roads #839 and #838" for better access.
