The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Dispersed Camping near Montpelier, ID

46 Reviews

Several free dispersed camping options surround Montpelier, Idaho, with notable sites including Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping and Palisades Reservoir Dispersed Camping. Franklin Basin offers extensive dispersed sites along a well-maintained gravel road with river access. The area accommodates both tent and RV camping, though most sites fill quickly on weekends. The road remains 2WD-accessible for several miles, eventually turning to dirt as it crosses into Idaho. A recent review noted, "Tons of dispersed spots all up and down Franklin Basin Rd. Road is very well maintained, sites are easily accessible and close to Logan river."

Palisades Reservoir provides primitive camping on reservoir banks just across the Idaho/Wyoming border. These sites lack amenities beyond basic fire rings, requiring visitors to pack out all waste. Diamond Creek area offers additional dispersed camping options, though some visitors report cattle frequently wandering through camps. Salt River Pass presents more remote options requiring high clearance vehicles. "The road is HEAVILY rutted, and would be impassible for a regular car," warns one camper. Most dispersed sites in the region prohibit camping beyond 21 days and implement seasonal fire restrictions.

Map showing campgrounds near Montpelier, IdahoExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Montpelier, Idaho (18)

    1. Salt River Pass

    6 Reviews
    Smoot, WY
    23 miles
    Website

    "They also blocked the road that goes pass the site with their truck so we weren’t able to drive any further to see if there was anywhere else in the area, but upon looking at satellite view of the coordinates"

    "As I was driving over Salt River Pass I noticed a small dirt road on the side of the highway."

    2. Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    Garden City, UT
    30 miles
    +1 (435) 232-2674

    "You can drive well into Idaho. You can drive for about 1.5 hours up in here and see amazing river meadow mountain views. The views are truly amazing."

    "Amazing location especially because it’s close to bear lake! I heard it’s better in August, but if you camp way further down the mosquitos are absolutely miserable."

    3. Diamond Creek Guard Station

    3 Reviews
    Auburn, WY
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 847-0375

    $35 / night

    "With a wood-burning stove, we stayed nice and toasty. There were plenty of cots to move close to the wood-burning stove for a cozy night sleep."

    "Dispersed camping with space for very large groups. Lots of dirt bike/quad trails. Beautiful views. Wish we could have stayed longer."

    4. Green Canyon Dispersed Campground

    16 Reviews
    North Logan, UT
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 755-3620

    "About 15 mins outside of Logan up a beautiful canyon. Headed up around 4pm on a Saturday during Memorial Day weekend so didn’t have high hopes but found a spot with a fire ring almost immediately!"

    "Easy to find by putting the coordinates provided in Google Maps. Came in after dark and easily found a site about 1/4 mile or so up the road. Road is a bit bumpy but nothing major."

    5. Franklin Basin Road

    1 Review
    Garden City, UT
    31 miles

    "Pull in off thr highway you will see a large gravel loop to your left. With bathrooms. This is the big rig area. There are also a few dispersed spots down in this lower area."

    6. dispersed camping

    1 Review
    Smoot, WY
    25 miles

    7. Palisades Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Soda Springs, ID
    32 miles

    "Easy to get to launch quickly and close proximity to Alpine WY where you can pick up supplies. There are no amenities at the campground."

    8. Smithfield Dispersed Campsite

    4 Reviews
    Richmond, UT
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 320-8300

    "After you've passed the Smithfield campground there are plenty of spots on both sides of the road where you can pull off and have dispersed camping."

    "Stayed here for two nights, at the end of a dead end road, close to the creek. Real easy place to be."

    9. Heart Mountain Spring

    2 Reviews
    Downey, ID
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 478-6340

    10. Fossil Butte National Monument BLM

    3 Reviews
    Kemmerer, WY
    40 miles

    "Beautiful and remote area 10 miles up the road from the Visitor’s Center. Paved road that turns to dirt- both in great condition. High clearance vehicle needed, especially on the BLM land."

    "Not a lot of info listed for this location so adding a review to hopefully help out! We didn’t get to camp here but it made me leave “stars”. The drive into the monument is easy, zero issues."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 18 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Montpelier Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Montpelier, ID

22 Photos of 18 Montpelier Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Montpelier, ID

46 Reviews of 18 Montpelier Campgrounds

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 2, 2022

    Fossil Butte National Monument BLM

    Spectacular!

    Beautiful and remote area 10 miles up the road from the Visitor’s Center. Paved road that turns to dirt- both in great condition. High clearance vehicle needed, especially on the BLM land. Visitor’s Center provided a map showing the location of the dispersed camping (road off to the left at the top). Strong internet access. Spectacular views!

  • T
    Jul. 6, 2022

    Salt River Pass

    Pretty

    It’s a pretty spot, but we were unfortunately unable to stay here because a couple was already there and they asked us to leave because they wanted the spot to themselves - which we understood.

    They also blocked the road that goes pass the site with their truck so we weren’t able to drive any further to see if there was anywhere else in the area, but upon looking at satellite view of the coordinates, the road seems to go on a bit further so if you have the chance to drive through there may be more potential sites.

    The road is a bit rough and you definitely need a high clearance vehicle to drive through.

    Tons of wildflowers and trees everywhere. A very private spot right off the highway.

    We ended up staying at Allred Flat campground just a mile or so up there road. It’s $10 a night - $5 if you have a pass - and in my opinion was even prettier than this site.

  • Matt P.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Heart Mountain Spring

    Dirt pull out

    Not sure where precious reviewer went but the GPS coordinates are for a dirt pull out beside a narrow spring. A mile further uphill on dirt road is a small camping area. Free for 21 days. No facilities but a few fire pits. It was full with trailers that have been there a while by the look of it. No spring. I drove another few miles up the mountain and found the entrance to the massive ranch that owns most of the surrounding land. Beyond that was yet more dirt road with no sign of a antelope park or spring. I gave up and was thankful I didn't arrive late in the day.

  • Fred S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 24, 2024

    Grey's River 10138L Dispersed

    Wonderful Riverside Dispersed Campsite

    Coordinates: 42.78898,-110.68746. Free. Camped here Sept 17, 2024. One of several dispersed campsites along Greys River Road (Forest Road 10138). Large dispersed site, set back from forest road; no concerns with dust coming into the site from passing vehicles. Should comfortably accommodate 3 or 4 rigs. Clean rock fire ring. Mostly level, dirt surface. Easy access from forest road. Open site surrounded by trees. Next to Grey's River; easy access for bank fishing. There is a set of trees that may accommodate hammock camping. Tent camping also possible. Area can get muddy after rain. Solar recharging possible in middle of afternoon. No T-Mobile nor AT&T cell service. Loved this spot.

  • J
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Salt River Pass

    Do not go here

    The suggestion that you need a high clearance vehicle is an understatement. The service road is incredibly rocky with one side a sheer drop. Went down with our campervan and barely made it down and back up in one piece. Looks like a nice spot but the other entrance was blocked so you’d have to get out via the same horrendous route in. Avoid.

  • Steven E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2019

    Green Canyon Dispersed Campground

    Green Canyon Disbursed Campgrounds

    Green Canyon is one of Logan Utahs underrated and overused gems. The canyon itself is open for recreation of various kinds year-round.

    During the summer months when most of us like to go camping, there are between 15 and 25 sites available on a first-come first-serve basis. Some of these are groups sites that can accommodate large gatherings. Most sites have established fire rings, however the overall site condition as well as the condition of the fire ring is sometimes questionable. This is usually due to high volume. This Canyon is also notorious for high school Gatherings, so there is usually a lot of pallet wood burned. You will find on almost every trip Nails screws Staples and broken glass. Beer bottles beer cans and cigarette butts are also pretty common unfortunately. (Wear good shoes!) Aside from questionable condition of the campgrounds, it is easy to get to and free. And relatively close to Logan. So it's easy to see why I get so much use.

    Green Canyon is better known and more happily known for its trail that runs alongside the road. Local residents love this Trail for trail runs, or mountain biking. There are Vault toilets in the parking lot at the bottom, as well as at the very top where Green Canyon meets water shed Canyon.

    In the winter months the road is closed, and is groomed by a local group named Nordic United. They groom it for cross country skiing several times a week and after every good storm. Trail is also used during the winter for snowshoeing, as well as Fat Tire snow biking.

    To top it off in the winter at the top Powder Ridge ski touring also has a yurt you can rent if you are willing to cross country ski or Snowshoe to it. (See separate review).

    Overall Green Canyon only gets 3 out of 5 stars because of its high traffic and high litter volume. Remember to leave no trace and always leave it better than you found it!

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Hobbit 2 Dispersed Site

    A one spot stop

    Didn’t stay, it’s right next to the road maybe for a camper van not for a truck and 30’ camper

  • Lucille W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 12, 2020

    Green Canyon Dispersed Campground

    Easy Access

    This canyon is within the Cache National Forest. Just outside of Logan, UT. Super easy access to a neat little canyon. My Honda Civic was able to navigate the gravel road far back into the canyon. There are two restrooms - one at the trailhead and one down into the canyon a bit. Several spots with picnic tables. Many pullouts / camping spots with stone fire rings on either side of the road. There were tons of mountain bikers around, as there is a mountain bike / trail running / hiking trail that goes through the canyon as well. Kinda crowded on the weekend. Lots of trucks, razors, and ATVs. BUT the canyon itself is cool and pretty. There is even a cave up on the left coming in and we saw some people bouldering up there. Overall not bad for a free place to stay! Met some super kind folks in there.

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 15, 2025

    Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping

    Amazing mnt views great road

    2wd friendly road for MILES. You can drive well into Idaho. You can drive for about 1.5 hours up in here and see amazing river meadow mountain views. The views are truly amazing. There are nice size and spread out dispersed camping spots along the way. Just make sure you stick to the gravel road as you go up, dont turn off. The road turns to dirt in idaho but is still 2wd safe until you get to a ver clear turn around. Beware of cows! They will be in several sections of the road but are friendly to cars and move out of the way. The sites can be a little buggy but many have direct river access or beaver pond access. If this place had cell signal it would be one of the best spots ever

Guide to Montpelier

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Montpelier, Idaho, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of options, this area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and adventure.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Montpelier, Idaho

  • Always bring your own water, as many dispersed sites, like Diamond Creek Guard Station, do not provide drinking water.
  • Be prepared for rough roads; a high-clearance vehicle is often necessary to access spots like Salt River Pass, which features beautiful wildflower fields.
  • Practice Leave No Trace principles to keep these natural areas pristine, especially at sites like Palisades Reservoir Dispersed Camping, where amenities are minimal.

Dispersed campers should check out Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping

  • This area offers vast spaces for solitude, making it ideal for those looking to escape the crowds; many visitors have found perfect spots here, as noted in reviews.
  • The road leading to Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping can be bumpy, but the journey is worth it for the stunning views and peaceful surroundings.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty, as this location is known for its scenic landscapes and hiking opportunities.

High Creek for dispersed campers

  • Located near Richmond, High Creek provides easy access to a beautiful river, perfect for cooling off on hot days.
  • Many dispersed sites along the creek offer ample space for tents and hammocks, making it a great choice for families and groups.
  • The area is close to hiking trails, allowing campers to explore the stunning scenery and enjoy the outdoors right from their campsite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free camping near Montpelier, Idaho?

Free camping options near Montpelier include Heart Mountain Spring, which offers dispersed camping for up to 21 days. While there are no facilities except for a few fire pits, it provides a convenient base for exploring the area. Another option is Grey's River 10138L Dispersed, which features large sites set back from the forest road with minimal dust from passing vehicles. This area can accommodate 3-4 vehicles comfortably and is free to use. Both locations are within reasonable driving distance from Montpelier and provide basic dispersed camping experiences in beautiful natural settings.

Is Franklin Basin a good area for dispersed camping near Montpelier?

Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping is an excellent area for dispersed camping near Montpelier. The basin features 2WD-friendly gravel roads for miles, extending well into Idaho with amazing river, meadow, and mountain views. The dispersed camping spots are nicely sized and spread out along the route. It's particularly appealing due to its proximity to Bear Lake. The area tends to be busy on weekends, but spots can still be found, especially for single vehicles. Some campers recommend visiting in August rather than earlier in summer, as mosquitos can be quite bothersome in certain areas, particularly in the lower sections of the basin.

What permits or regulations apply to dispersed camping around Montpelier, Idaho?

Dispersed camping around Montpelier generally follows standard Forest Service regulations. At Green Canyon Dispersed Campground in nearby Cache National Forest, camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis with no permits required. Similar rules likely apply to dispersed camping in Caribou-Targhee National Forest near Montpelier. Most dispersed sites in the region permit stays up to 14-21 days. Campers must practice Leave No Trace principles, maintain at least 100 feet distance from water sources, and properly manage campfires (where allowed). During fire restriction periods, additional rules may apply. Always check with the local ranger district office in Montpelier for the most current regulations before setting up camp.

Keep Exploring