DUTCHMAN FLAT DISPERSED AREA

About

Dutchman Flat Dispersed Area is located in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah County, in the upper portion of American Fork Canyon within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. The flat sits at approximately 8,500 feet elevation in the valley that once hosted Forest City, an 1870s silver mining town that peaked at 500 residents before being abandoned by 1880. Remnants of the Sultana Smelting Works foundations and old mining structures remain in the area. This is a true primitive dispersed camping experience with no developed facilities whatsoever. There are no toilets, potable water, trash services, or established fire rings. A wooden fence blocks vehicle access to the camping area itself, so campers must park outside the fence and carry all gear to their campsite. Access requires navigating forest roads that typically demand high-clearance or 4WD vehicles. The area is only accessible when the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway (SR-92) is open, typically from late May or early June through late October or November, depending on snow conditions. The road closure gate effectively closes this area to all access during winter months.

Directions

From American Fork, head east on UT-92 (Alpine Loop Scenic Byway) into American Fork Canyon. Continue approximately 12-13 miles up the canyon past Tibble Fork Reservoir and the developed campgrounds. The dispersed area is located in the upper canyon near the historic Forest City site. High-clearance or 4WD vehicle recommended for forest roads beyond the main highway.