Big Lake Cua Dispersed
02 reviews115 East 900 North Richfield, UT 84701
Big Lake Cua Dispersed
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
This is a no-fee dispersed camping site.
About this campground
Escape to the pristine wilderness of Big Lake Dispersed Camping, where adventurous souls find solitude in a breathtaking alpine meadow perched at 9,300 feet above sea level. This primitive camping haven beckons those seeking an authentic backcountry experience, complete with sweeping vistas framed by towering aspens and evergreens. While amenities are minimal, a conveniently located vault restroom near the reservoir ensures basic comfort as you immerse yourself in nature's raw beauty along Forest Road 080.
Big Lake Dispersed Camping is categorized as a primitive camping area, providing primarily natural surroundings with minimal amenities. Its focus is on dispersed camping rather than developed campground facilities.
Weather and SeasonsFrom June through October, Big Lake transforms into a high-altitude sanctuary where crisp mountain air and dramatic temperature swings define each day. Early season visitors should pack their warmest gear as June mornings can greet you with frost-kissed meadows and temperatures that dance between frigid and freezing. As summer progresses, days warm to comfortable levels perfect for exploration, though evenings consistently remind you of the elevation with their refreshing chill. September and October paint the landscape in golden hues while bringing back winter's whispered warnings.
ElevationAt 9,300 feet, this lofty perch places you among the clouds where the air is thin, pure, and invigorating. The high elevation creates a natural refrigerator effect, keeping temperatures refreshingly cool even during summer's peak while offering panoramic vistas that stretch for miles across the surrounding wilderness. Here, you'll experience the unique sensation of camping above much of the world, where weather patterns unfold below and stars shine with extraordinary brilliance.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself awakening in an expansive wildflower meadow where morning mist dances across native grasses and the first rays of sunlight illuminate groves of quaking aspens. This natural amphitheater is embraced by stands of stately conifers that whisper ancient secrets in the mountain breeze. Big Lake itself serves as the jewel of this landscape, its mirror-like surface reflecting sky and forest while providing a stage for wildlife encounters – from elk grazing at dawn to osprey diving for trout in the golden evening light.
Geological RegionThis remarkable camping destination sits within a vast alpine meadow system carved by ancient geological forces at 9,300 feet elevation. The surrounding landscape tells a story written in stone and soil, where volcanic activity and glacial sculpting created this high-altitude basin now cloaked in aspen groves and coniferous forests. The meadow's gentle contours contrast dramatically with the rugged terrain beyond, creating a natural sanctuary that feels both intimate and infinite.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe site is dispersed and designed to minimize human impact on the environment. Accessibility options are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeMost dispersed campsites are located near aspen and conifer trees, providing natural shade. The exact sizes of the campsites are not detailed in available information.
Sites PrivacyThe natural layout of the campsites among trees offers a level of privacy, but the dispersed nature of the campground suggests that spacing may vary. Specific privacy levels per site are not documented.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Camping stay limit is 16 days, 15 nights. After that, campers must relocate at least 5 road miles away.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific guest limits are mentioned for dispersed camping.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutPrimitive dispersed sites located in a large meadow near Forest Road 080.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June to October.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable as reservations are not available.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis dispersed camping area operates on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations are accepted.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as reservations are not available.
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Big Lake Dispersed Camping offers a range of outdoor recreational activities, emphasizing self-sufficiency and connection to nature. Activities include fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, hunting, and OHV riding on designated trails. These activities align with the area's focus on preserving its natural state.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant, though specific trails or difficulty levels are not detailed. The natural terrain allows for exploration and connection with the environment.Fishing
Big Lake serves as a great fishing spot, as emphasized in both official sources and user reviews. One user describes the area as "next [to] a large reservoir with good fishing." Specific fish types or fishing regulations are not detailed.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is highlighted as a key activity, enabling visitors to observe the diverse fauna of the area. Specific examples of commonly seen wildlife are not provided.Winter Activities
Null. No specific winter recreation options are described in the available sources.Water Sports
No explicit mentions of non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are included in the source information.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campers must follow local fire restrictions and fully extinguish campfires before leaving.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife presence and seasonal snow risks. Following bear-proof food storage protocols is advised.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Light drizzle
Precipitation: 0.4%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Very Light Rain - (0.40% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Light drizzle
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Supervisors Office & Richfield Ranger District, 115 East 900 North Richfield, UT 84701, Phone: (435) 896-9233.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune to October
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are not provided on-site. Campers are required to pack out all trash to maintain the natural environment and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Big Lake Reservoir, which offers fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsSome reviews noted limited amenities, with one reviewer stating 'the only thing that is there is a pit toilet.' Another highlighted 'no services' as a drawback.
Campground Map
115 East 900 North Richfield, UT 84701
Driving directionsBig Lake Dispersed camping is located about 21 miles south and east of Richfield Utah, along the Monroe Mountain Road FR068. From Richfield head east on 300 North (UT-118) 1 mile. Continue straight onto UT-119 east for 4.2 miles. Turn right into Glenwood for 1 mile and turn left at Center Street. Travel east for 0.4 miles where Center Street turns right and becomes Fish Hatchery Road (UT-263). Continue for 3.4 miles and turn left onto Monroe Mountain Road (FR068). Continue on FR068 for 11 miles and turn right onto FR080 for 0.5 miles.
Access involves paved roads transitioning to unpaved forest service roads. Seasonal closures may apply, particularly outside June to October when the campground is open.Nearby places
Richfield, Utah: 27.9 miles
Greenwich, Utah: 29.8 miles
Nearby supplies
Richfield, Utah, located about 27.9 miles away, provides access to groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Big Lake Cua Dispersed has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is positively reviewed for its natural beauty and serenity, though the lack of facilities is a recurring theme. Users appreciate the fishing opportunities and the scenic location, but caution about the limited amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the scenic beauty of the large meadow at 9,300 feet elevation, proximity to Big Lake for fishing, and the shade provided by aspen and conifer trees. Visitors emphasize the...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The primary complaint centers on the lack of amenities, as noted in reviews highlighting the absence of water, electricity, and other services.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are encouraged to bring their own water, firewood, and all necessary supplies due to the lack of on-site services. Adherence to Leave No Trace principles is also recommended.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open from June to October, and reviews do not indicate significant differences in experience across this period. Seasonal weather trends or activity changes are not specifically...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "At this campground, the only thing that is there is a pit toilet." 2. "USFS primitive campground, no services, pit toilet." 3. "A fun little dry campground next to a large reservoir with good...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The reviews do not provide specific details about individual campsites.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no specific reviews discussing accessibility features or experiences.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The pet policy requires dogs to be leashed at all times, and users are instructed to clean up after their pets. No specific positive or negative reviews about the pet policies are included.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025