Dispersed camping opportunities abound in the northern Utah wilderness near Willard, with elevations ranging from 4,300 feet in the valleys to over 9,000 feet at Monte Cristo. Camping sites in the Wasatch-Cache National Forest vary from heavily wooded creek-side locations to open alpine meadows. Most roads to higher elevation campsites remain snow-covered until late May, with the best access occurring from June through early October.
What to do
Fishing at nearby streams: Curtis Creek offers creek fishing opportunities for native trout species. "Awesome time love the dirt road love the trees the nature, everything about it basically the hills and country," notes John C. about Curtis Creek/Arbs Basin.
Cross-country skiing: Winter visitors can access the Green Canyon Yurt for an overnight winter adventure. "The trail is approximately 3.8 miles long with a steady incline most of the way. There are a few spots with decent little Hills," reports Steven E., who stayed at Green Canyon Yurt after Christmas.
Wildlife viewing: Antelope Island State Park provides opportunities to view native wildlife in their natural habitat. "Good hiking trails with great views and lots of animals to see," mentions Ryan about the Split Rock Bay Backcountry Campsites.
What campers like
Fall colors: The changing aspens create stunning scenery at higher elevations. "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," shares Colyer D. about tent campsites near Monte Cristo.
Secluded camping spots: Many campers appreciate the privacy found at dispersed sites. "We came during a week day and the whole site was empty! Very quiet, very pretty, and very colorful. There were only two or maybe three spots total, so get here early," advises Karson M. when describing dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
Creek-side settings: Several camping areas feature running water that adds ambiance. "I first visited this area in the spring, and have since been there around 4-5 times. It's very beautiful with lots of greenery and a river through the whole canyon," notes Keaton L. about Smithfield Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require navigating unmaintained forest roads. "About 1/4 mile down a dirt road from Hwy 39 is a good single boondocking spot with a great view. Not for large RVs," explains Brian C., adding, "Our 17 ft trailer with 4x4 was tricky to get into the spot because the loop was so small."
Seasonal water levels: Water features change dramatically with seasonal runoff. "Beautiful lake, nice beaches, but only if you go in the late summer or fall. Spring runoff makes this lake rise significantly, which completely submerged the beach we were playing on," warns Brendan A. about Port Ramp Marina.
Arrival timing strategy: Competition for prime sites intensifies on weekends. "After you've passed the Smithfield campground there are plenty of spots on both sides of the road where you can pull off and have dispersed camping. Most of the spots are pretty small and would only work for one or two tents or maybe a couple of hammocks," advises Brendan J.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner backpacking: Some locations offer easy introduction to backpacking for children. "Aside from the excessive litter in a few places, this was a great place to give my 5 year old a taste of backpacking," shares Adam Z. about the Cook Campsite.
Winter activities: Families can enjoy winter camping alternatives including ice skating. "This is a fantastic spot to go in the winter. Not only is it more beautiful in the winter, but it gets loads of snow for snow sports. Huntsville, which is a ten minute drive away also has an awesome field that they turn into a skating rink," explains Brendan A.
Space limitations: Many dispersed sites accommodate only small groups. "The only spaces large enough for my 23 ft RV were occupied, and all of the car-sized spots were also taken," reports Sarah C. about Smithfield Dispersed Camping, highlighting the need for backup plans when camping with multiple families.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites near Willard have limitations for larger vehicles. "No warning that the road narrows with no turn around about a mile into the campground, or the trees are overgrown which scratched up my sides," cautions Sarah C., who attempted to bring a 23-foot RV to Smithfield Dispersed Camping.
Seasonal alternatives: Winter camping offers unique experiences for properly equipped RVers. "The lake will freeze over enough to walk on or fish on. There were plenty of people ice fishing when we went," notes Brendan A. about winter camping options near Port Ramp Marina.
Fire considerations: Check current fire restrictions before arriving with plans for cooking. "Has a fire pit but with fire restrictions we didn't have a fire. The view is fantastic of hills covered with aspen and fir trees," reports Brian C. about his experience with a 17-foot trailer near Monte Cristo.
