A gravel road leads into Rochester Rock Camping, a free BLM dispersed site outside Emery in central Utah, and reviewers report it handles 2WD vehicles without trouble. A handful of spots are scattered around a main parking area, some with fire rings, and the terrain runs level enough for a comfortable overnight. Verizon users have noted solid cell coverage here. The main draw is a one-mile round-trip hike to a petroglyph panel, with open sightlines toward surrounding hills and the river below. Pets and campfires are permitted, and there are no fees. If you're passing through the region or want a low-key base for exploring the canyon country, this spot is worth a stop.
Description
The "Swell" features endless amounts of recreational experiences including: hiking, biking, four wheel driving, horseback, canyoneering, and river running. Don't miss the Little Grand Canyon and Buckhorn Wash Pictograph Panel. For an overview of the "Swell" make sure to check out Cedar Mountain Day Use Overlook. You will be able to discover Petroglyphs and Historical areas throughout the 'Swell".
The following Wilderness areas were congressionally designated around the San Rafael Swell Recreation Area as part of the John D. Dingell. Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act and are currently closed to OHV use: Big Wild Horse Mesa, Cold Wash, Devil’s Canyon, Eagle Canyon, Horse Valley, Little Ocean Draw, Little Wild Horse Canyon, Lower Last Chance, Mexican Mountain, Middle Wild Horse Mesa, Muddy Creek, Red’s Canyon, San Rafael Reef, and Sid’s Mountain.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsRochester Rock Camping is located in Utah near Emery
Coordinates
38.90774339213782 N
111.19582224791644 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 7/18/26- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 7/18/26
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 22 min from Provo, UT
- 2 hrs 49 min from Grand Junction, CO
- 2 hrs 52 min from Salt Lake City, UT
- 3 hrs 20 min from Ogden, UT
