Best Dispersed Camping near Preston, ID

Dispersed camping opportunities abound within a 30-mile radius of Preston, Idaho, primarily on public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. Notable sites include Green Canyon Dispersed Campground, Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping, and Smithfield Dispersed Campsite. These primitive camping areas offer varying levels of accessibility and amenities. According to reviews, Green Canyon features between 15-25 sites during summer months with established fire rings, though site conditions can be variable due to high usage. Most locations operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system in place.

Road conditions vary significantly between sites. Indian Rocks Dispersed Camping, a former state park now under BLM jurisdiction, features a gravel road with potholes that requires cautious driving but remains accessible for most vehicles. Several campers noted that while 4WD isn't strictly necessary for many sites, high-clearance vehicles are advantageous during wet conditions. Franklin Basin Road is generally well-maintained with numerous dispersed sites along the route, some adjacent to the Logan River. Visitors should be prepared for limited or no amenities; most sites lack drinking water, electrical hookups, and sanitary facilities.

Seasonal considerations are important when planning trips to this region. Green Canyon's road closes December 1 through April 15, with a $10 permit fee required for a 3-day stay. Early June camping in Franklin Basin can be chilly at night, necessitating appropriate cold-weather gear. Fire regulations should be verified before arrival as restrictions may be implemented during dry periods. Cell service is inconsistent throughout the area, with some sites reporting adequate coverage while others have none. Vault toilets are available at select locations such as Green Canyon and Heart Mountain Spring, but most primitive sites require campers to pack out all waste in accordance with Leave No Trace principles.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Preston, Idaho (15)

    1. Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Garden City, UT
    19 miles
    +1 (435) 232-2674

    "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."

    "Ended up driving this road up to Idaho to find a bigger spot and some solitude. Took the dirt road for about 30 minutes and got the most perfect spot. Nobody was near us and the view was amazing."

    2. Green Canyon Dispersed Campground

    15 Reviews
    North Logan, UT
    24 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."

    3. Smithfield Dispersed Campsite

    3 Reviews
    Richmond, UT
    17 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."

    4. Heart Mountain Spring

    1 Review
    Downey, ID
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 478-6340

    5. High Creek

    Be the first to review!
    Richmond, UT
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 755-3620

    6. Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping

    14 Reviews
    McCammon, ID
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 478-6340

    "GPS correct, no signage and just off highway West. Small 60x40 yard gravel/dirt lot a quarter mile up improved road with some potholes."

    "Close to highway, easy driven dirt road with plenty of flat spots to park. Good for one night while passing through."

    9. Portneuf Lower Sportsmen's Access

    1 Review
    Lava Hot Springs, ID
    38 miles

    "Easy access from Lava with about 10 designated spots, most with room for two vehicles and one(?) pull through spot that fit my truck/30foot TT."

    10. Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin

    2 Reviews
    Woodruff, UT
    45 miles
    Website

    "Awesome time love the dirt road love love the trees the nature, everything about it basically the hills and country"

    "We stayed here for the night on our rooftop tent. It’s very quiet, barely any people. There’s man made firepits made out of rocks of people who have stayed here. It’s chilly and very pretty around."

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Showing results 1-10 of 15 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Preston, ID

45 Reviews of 15 Preston Campgrounds



Guide to Preston

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Preston, Idaho, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of locations to choose from, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Preston

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Preston, Idaho

  • Always check for road conditions before heading to Heart Mountain Spring, as access can be challenging, especially for those without 4WD vehicles.
  • Be prepared for a variety of camping experiences at High Creek, where you can find both spacious sites for larger groups and more secluded spots for a quiet getaway.
  • Bring your own water and supplies when visiting Franklin Basin Road, as amenities are limited and it's essential to be self-sufficient.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Smithfield Dispersed Campsite

  • Located at the end of a dead-end road, Smithfield Dispersed Campsite offers a peaceful retreat close to a creek, perfect for those seeking a quiet escape.
  • This area is known for its picturesque canyon views and is ideal for small groups or individuals looking for a more intimate camping experience.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife while camping at Green Canyon Dispersed Campground, as the surrounding forest is home to various species, enhancing your outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Preston, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Preston, ID is Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping with a 4.3-star rating from 8 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Preston, ID?

TheDyrt.com has all 15 dispersed camping locations near Preston, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.