Top 10+ Dispersed Free Camping in Utah

Utah's dispersed camping includes over 200 BLM sites plus hundreds of additional extensive Forest Service land where campers can stay free for up to 14 days. The terrain ranges from desert canyons near national parks to pine-covered mountains, with most areas accessible to standard vehicles.

Tom Best Spring Road near Bryce Canyon gets consistently positive reviews for its ponderosa pine setting and easy access. Campers mention the 15-minute drive to the park entrance, though dust from passing vehicles can be bothersome for roadside sites. The forest roads branch off into numerous camping spots with varying privacy levels.

Valley of the Gods near Mexican Hat delivers classic Utah desert camping with dramatic rock formations. Recent visitors appreciate the big-rig friendly sites, but warn about soft road conditions after rain that create deep ruts. The area has no amenities, so campers pack everything in and out.

Capitol Reef's BLM dispersed areas just outside the park boundary work well for park access without developed campground crowds. Visitors highlight elevated spots that RVs can't reach, particularly for sunset viewing. The location connects easily to hiking trails like Upper Muley Creek and the park's historic orchards.

Moab's dispersed camping fills quickly during peak seasons, with the best spots often requiring high-clearance vehicles. Campers note that sites tucked further from main roads tend to be quieter, though the area can echo noise between campsites at night.

Road conditions vary significantly across Utah's dispersed camping areas. Weather affects access year-round, with winter closures in mountain zones and flash flood risks in desert washes. Most remote locations have no cell service, and fire restrictions change seasonally. Successful dispersed camping here requires self-sufficiency, proper vehicles for the terrain, and advance planning for water and waste disposal.

Best Dispersed Sites in Utah (588)

    1. Tom Best Spring Road FR117 Dispersed - Dixie National Forest

    71 Reviews
    Tropic, UT
    Website
    +1 (435) 865-3700

    "October 15, 2020

    We wanted to be close to Bryce Canyon but not in all of the hub and chaos of people. This location is about a 10 minute drive away from Bryce. "

    "We chose a location, just off FR117 about 4 miles up the road. Walked across the stream and saw a few more remote sites up that little hunting and horse road."

    2. Dispersed Camping Outside of Moab - Sovereign Lands

    53 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    Website
    +1 (801) 538-5418

    "high clearance vehicle recommended. Low clearance vehicles can access sights closer to highway. Lots of camping spots tucked away if you continue down the road."

    "We tent camped here in mid December and it was cold at night, but nothing too terrible if you have the right sleeping bags."

    3. Capitol Reef National Park Dispersed Camping

    50 Reviews
    Torrey, UT
    Website
    +1 (435) 425-3791

    "We had not dabbled into BLM (Bureau of Land Management) camping before, but this experience would encourage us to utilize it throughout the rest of our year-long trip to the national parks."

    "We were not planning on going to Capitol Reef on our Utah trip but we got some unexpected snow at Canyonlands so we headed out early. So glad we made the trip!"

    4. Valley of the Gods Dispersed Camping

    46 Reviews
    Mexican Hat, UT
    Website

    "Plus even if your vehicle can handle the soft soils you'll wreck the road for everyone once the deep ruts dry out and harden."

    "Free primitive camping with amazing views. No facilities. Pack in and pack out. Plenty of spaces to chose from."

    5. Beas Lewis Flat Dispersed

    45 Reviews
    Torrey, UT
    Website
    +1 (435) 896-1500

    "We spent a week along Beas Lewis Flat Road just outside of Torrey, to explore Capitol Reef National Park. This is free BLM dispersed camping with a 14-day stay limit, no sites or services provided."

    "Easy drive in, wide, dirt roads. Must be at least a hundred different sites."

    6. North Creek Dispersed Camping

    43 Reviews
    Virgin, UT
    Website

    "There’s of shade from the trees and a beautiful creek.

    We arrived at around 3pm and no one was around. By 5pm a good amount of people started driving in a picking their spots."

    "Went to the right from the entrance all the way to end next to a private property. It’s really quiet and more secluded. You see other campers but you have privacy and your own place."

    7. Volcano Peak Campground (Dispersed)

    40 Reviews
    Wendover, UT
    Website

    "Private and quiet spot off the highway to camp near the Salt Flats. If you get a spot that can prevent some of the major winds in this area it will be best for you if you’re camping in a tent."

    "You can’t camp on the salt flats but this is the next best thing. Unpaved road but very reasonable for even 2WD."

    8. BLM Middle Fork Shafer Canyon Dispersed

    40 Reviews
    Moab, UT
    +1 (435) 259-2100

    "A car with some high clearance and 4WD is probably necessary for this."

    "The best in Utah. The layout of this area is amazing and unique.

    We had the place to ourselves aside from some guy who was looking for his friends and ended up car camping."

    9. Dispersed Mexican Hat Camping

    36 Reviews
    Mexican Hat, UT
    Website

    "After entering, the dirt road to the right takes you to camping in front of the Mexican Hat there’s quite a few spots that are big rig friendly."

    "Mexican Hat is free dispursed camping on BLM land outside of the town of Mexican Hat Utah. There are sites available for RVs, tents, vans, etc."

    10. FR 090 - dispersed camping

    34 Reviews
    Fern Ridge Lake, UT
    Website
    +1 (435) 865-3700

    "The road is a bit bumpy, but we were fine taking our time in our camper van. Lots of space between sites. The trees are gorgeous. & it’s super close to the entrance of Bryce Canyon National Park."

    "We rented a van from Escape camper vans and this spot of easy to find and get to! We saw a lot of people with campers and vans."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews in Utah

2377 Reviews of 588 Utah Campgrounds



Guide to Utah

Utah offers a stunning array of dispersed camping options, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With breathtaking landscapes and a variety of amenities, these spots are perfect for a memorable camping experience.

Top Activities While Free Camping in Utah

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping in Utah

Top Attractions for Dispersed Campers

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the differences between dispersed camping in Northern versus Southern Utah?

Northern Utah dispersed camping features more forested mountain terrain with cooler temperatures and higher elevations. Sites like Dispersed Camping Willow Spring (Wasatch) offer pine and aspen groves with moderate summer temperatures and snowy winters, making them ideal from late spring through early fall. Southern Utah presents desert landscapes with striking red rock formations, offering year-round accessibility at places like Miners Canyon BLM. Northern areas typically have more tree cover and natural shade, while southern sites provide expansive views and star-gazing opportunities. Water availability is generally better in northern regions, while southern areas require bringing all water needs. Road conditions also differ—northern mountain roads can be muddy or snowy, while southern routes often involve sandy or rocky terrain requiring higher clearance vehicles.

How can I find dispersed camping on a map of Utah?

To find dispersed camping on Utah maps, start with the BLM's online interactive maps and the USFS Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs), which show designated dispersed camping areas. Mobile apps like The Dyrt, Campendium, and Gaia GPS are invaluable for discovering sites like Sheep Creek Dispersed Camping Area, which features clear signage and good road access. Skyline Drive represents the kind of hidden gem you can find with proper mapping tools. Look for Forest Service roads (marked FR or FS) and BLM routes on topographic maps. County visitor centers often provide free paper maps highlighting dispersed camping opportunities. Public land boundaries are crucial to identify—look for areas marked as BLM, National Forest, or National Grassland, avoiding private property and tribal lands.

Where are the best dispersed camping locations in Utah?

Utah offers exceptional dispersed camping opportunities, with some of the best sites located in and around national parks and forests. Capitol Reef National Park Dispersed Camping provides free camping with stunning views, a welcome alternative to more crowded parks. In southern Utah, Comb Wash Dispersed Camping Area within Bears Ears National Monument offers designated spots accessible by most vehicles, with beautiful desert landscape views. Other top-rated areas include the BLM lands surrounding Goblin Valley, the pine forests of Dixie National Forest, and the scenic Glen Canyon area. For the best experience, seek locations that balance accessibility, views, and proximity to Utah's natural attractions while considering your vehicle's capabilities and the season of your visit.

Where can I find free dispersed camping sites in Utah?

Free dispersed camping is abundant throughout Utah, particularly on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. East Dispersed Area — Goblin Valley State Park offers free camping just outside the park boundaries, providing a cost-effective alternative to the $35 park camping fee. Blue Notch Canyon Primitive in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area provides free lakeside camping with spectacular Utah vistas. Additional free options include areas around Moab, the Dixie National Forest, and lands outside Zion National Park. Most of these sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis and typically have a 14-day stay limit. While these areas lack amenities like toilets and water, they offer unparalleled access to Utah's natural beauty without cost.

What are the rules and regulations for BLM dispersed camping in Utah?

BLM dispersed camping in Utah generally follows a 14-day stay limit within any 28-day period. Camp at least 200 feet from water sources and use existing fire rings when possible. Pack out all trash and human waste or use a portable toilet, as demonstrated at BLM 17B Road Dispersed Overlander near Dinosaur National Monument. Some areas like Toms Best Spring Road have specific regulations regarding site selection and road use. Many BLM areas require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain. Fire restrictions vary seasonally and by location—always check current restrictions before your trip. Remember that while camping is free, some adjacent areas may require entrance fees or permits, particularly near national parks and monuments.