Five Mile Pass / Faust Campsite

For many Utahns, the vast, open landscapes of the high desert hold a special kind of allure. Five Mile Pass, and its associated Faust Campsite, offers a quintessential high-desert experience for those who love off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation and rustic camping. Located in a high arid region that is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), this area is a popular playground for local off-road enthusiasts. It’s a place where the wide-open spaces, dusty trails, and rugged beauty of the desert provide a stark and exhilarating contrast to the towering mountains that dominate much of our state's landscape.

More than just a destination, Five Mile Pass is a hub for adventure. The area is teeming with crisscrossing desert trails that cater to a variety of OHVs, from ATVs and side-by-sides to dirt bikes and mountain bikes. It’s an ideal spot for a weekend of high-octane fun, followed by a quiet night under a blanket of stars. The "campsite" is not a developed campground with designated sites, but rather a dispersed camping area, giving visitors the freedom to find their own perfect spot to set up camp. This makes it a great choice for those who are self-sufficient and prefer a more wild and untamed camping experience. The sense of freedom and vastness here is a major draw, attracting a community of people who appreciate the raw, natural beauty of the Utah desert.

The Five Mile Pass / Faust Campsite is located near Faust, UT, at the address 6P85+W7, Faust, UT, USA. This location is situated on the border of Utah County and Tooele County, approximately 14 miles west of Eagle Mountain. Its proximity to major population centers along the Wasatch Front, including Salt Lake City and Provo, makes it a very accessible destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. While it is in a remote-feeling desert setting, the drive is relatively straightforward via major highways, making it a convenient option for those looking for a quick escape from city life.

The accessibility of the area is a key feature. The main access roads are suitable for most vehicles, but for those venturing onto the more rugged trails, a high-clearance 4x4 or an SUV is recommended. This area has a long history, with the original Pony Express Trail and historic mining and quarrying sites passing through, adding a unique historical dimension to the landscape. While the location is known for its OHV recreation, it also offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and general exploration, all within easy reach of the camping areas. This blend of accessibility and a rugged, historical landscape is what makes Five Mile Pass so appealing to locals.

As a BLM-managed dispersed camping area, Five Mile Pass / Faust Campsite operates on a "limited or no services" model.

• The area offers dispersed camping, which means there are no designated campsites, picnic tables, or fire rings. Campers are free to set up their tents or park their RVs in any suitable location within the recreation area.
• The BLM has provided five pit toilet restrooms scattered throughout the recreation area for public use.
• It is crucial for visitors to note that there is no drinking water available on-site. Campers must bring all the water they need for their stay.
• As with all dispersed camping areas, there is no garbage service. Visitors are required to pack out all of their trash and follow the "Leave No Trace" principles to keep the area clean and pristine.

The features and highlights of Five Mile Pass / Faust Campsite are all about rugged outdoor fun and freedom.

• The primary highlight is the extensive network of OHV trails. The area is known as an OHV playground, with many makeshift motocross tracks and miles of winding trails suitable for ATVs, side-by-sides, and dirt bikes.
• The dispersed camping opportunity is a significant feature. This allows campers to find a secluded spot away from others, providing a sense of privacy and a more authentic wilderness experience. It is also a free camping option, which is a major draw for those on a budget.
• The natural landscape itself is a highlight. While the area lacks the shade of a traditional forest, the rugged, high-desert environment offers unique views and a different kind of beauty, with a chance to spot local wildlife and enjoy vast, unhindered vistas.
• The history of the area is a unique feature. Being part of the historic Pony Express Trail adds a layer of significance to the landscape and allows for a glimpse into Utah's rich pioneer past.

As a dispersed camping area, there is no dedicated phone number for the specific campsite. For general information about the area, you can contact the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Salt Lake Field Office, as they manage the recreation area. The address is 6P85+W7, Faust, UT, USA. It is best to consult the BLM's website for the most up-to-date information on the area's regulations, any potential fire restrictions, and any changes to the fee system or required permits.

So, what makes Five Mile Pass / Faust Campsite worth choosing for your next outdoor adventure?

Five Mile Pass / Faust Campsite is a perfect choice for those who are looking for a rugged, self-sufficient, and adventurous outdoor experience. It is the go-to spot for OHV enthusiasts, offering a vast network of trails for every skill level. The dispersed camping option provides a level of freedom and privacy that is hard to find in more structured campgrounds, and the fact that it is a free camping area makes it an extremely attractive option. While you must be prepared to bring all your own supplies, including water, the payoff is a raw and authentic camping experience in a unique Utah landscape.

It is important to be aware of the environment—it can get very hot in the summer with little to no shade, and noise from other OHV users and nearby highways can be a factor, especially on busy weekends. However, for those who embrace the rugged nature of the desert and prioritize off-roading, open spaces, and free camping, Five Mile Pass / Faust Campsite is a premier destination. It is a place where you can truly get away from it all and enjoy the untamed beauty of the Utah desert on your own terms.

Five Mile Pass / Faust Campsite

6P85+W7, Faust, UT, USA