Primitive campsites dot the landscape around Fish Haven, Idaho, primarily on public lands in nearby Utah and Wyoming. The area features several dispersed camping zones including Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping, Smithfield Dispersed Campsite, and Green Canyon Dispersed Campground. These sites sit on U.S. Forest Service and BLM lands, offering primitive camping options without designated facilities. Most locations require no reservations and are free to access, though some areas like High Creek may have permit requirements or nominal fees.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region's dispersed sites. Franklin Basin Road provides relatively accessible routes with some sites suitable for larger vehicles, while others require higher clearance. Campers report the road becoming bumpy and rough in sections, particularly after leaving maintained gravel portions. Most dispersed areas lack drinking water, electricity, and other amenities. Fire restrictions apply seasonally, with several sites allowing fires in established rings when conditions permit. Cell service is limited or nonexistent at most locations, particularly in Franklin Basin where reviewers note "NO cell phone signal at all" in the lower sections.
The dispersed camping experience near Fish Haven combines solitude with scenic landscapes. Many sites feature proximity to creeks and rivers, providing natural soundscapes and recreation opportunities. A camper noted that at Franklin Basin, "There are nice size and spread out dispersed camping spots along the way" with "amazing river meadow mountain views." Sites vary in popularity and traffic levels. Green Canyon experiences heavier use with "tons of traffic even late at night" according to reviews, while areas deeper into Franklin Basin offer more seclusion. Seasonal factors affect accessibility and comfort, with higher elevations becoming inaccessible in winter and some areas experiencing significant mosquito activity in early summer. Wildlife sightings are common, with cattle frequently encountered along roads in certain areas.
"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."
"While there are a lot of disbursed sites along the corridor, they were all completely filled due to a bike race happening at nearby Beaver Mountain."
"Very easy access off 89. Very large sites with fire rings start about 1/4 off the main road. Only one other site being used that I saw. Pit toilet available at the large parking area."
"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."
"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."
"Amazing place to camp right next to the river. The entrance you go across the bridge. It looks low, but a 13.5 RV can make it under no problem."
"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."
"Didn’t stay, it’s right next to the road maybe for a camper van not for a truck and 30’ camper"
"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."
"Travel through Fossil Butte, and up the hill, then drive a while and cross into BLM, then drive through some dirt roads, and up a hill and there you are… all alone."
"Google maps took us up a dirt road, must have a high clearance vehicle way. We still arrived, but at 5-10 mph. If Google maps asks you to leave a nice gravel road on your way here, dont do it lol."
"Very private boondocking area about 10 miles off the highway. Wide open area; fairly level in the campsites we saw."
TravelerGoogle maps took us up a dirt road, must have a high clearance vehicle way. We still arrived, but at 5-10 mph. If Google maps asks you to leave a nice gravel road on your way here, dont do it lol. Campground very nice with newer pit toliets (bring your own TP). View is amazing of the reservoir and surrounding mountains.
GuideThis had amazing views, including a cool cave. However, the road is very bumpy and the spots are smaller. It would not be good for a larger RV. The spots fill up very quickly.
TravelerIt had rained so it was a little slick but not bad, we could not find any designated camp sites so we just found a level place. It was very quiet, we only seen one ORV the whole time we were there. Awesome views.
RangerVery easy access off 89. Very large sites with fire rings start about 1/4 off the main road. Only one other site being used that I saw. Pit toilet available at the large parking area. Clean and well kept. No cell service. Free range cows.
RangerTravel through Fossil Butte, and up the hill, then drive a while and cross into BLM, then drive through some dirt roads, and up a hill and there you are… all alone. I love it. 8000 feet and 360 views. No amenities.
ScoutWhile there are a lot of disbursed sites along the corridor, they were all completely filled due to a bike race happening at nearby Beaver Mountain. We continued up and finally found a nice camp site just on the south side of Utah border but it turned out to be on private property. There’s a small stretch of a private property near the state line marked by a sign posted cattle grate. The property owner stopped by, he was super polite, but explained the boundaries and asked us to move along.
In many spots on the road on the way up there were wide open areas where a single camper had claimed a large area, even sites that could comfortably accommodate several rigs, so just a few things to watch out for.
TravelerEasily accessible spot off FR 006. Found shady, mostly level spot to park van right off the road. Peaceful location. Fire pit in the camp area. No amenities.
GuideGood views, little to no mosquitoes, privacy, a great road, what more can you ask for! We stayed at the first spot past the gate (on the first road to the left at the first split in the road at the top) We saw several people going to the right, looks like there’s probably plenty of spots back there as well. Highly recommend!
TravelerSo much space but about 20 mins from I-80. Peaceful right by the water
Primitive camping near Fish Haven, Idaho offers numerous options on public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. The area sits at elevations between 5,900-8,000 feet with summer temperatures typically ranging from 45-85°F. Access roads generally open from late May through October, with most sites becoming inaccessible during winter months due to snow accumulation.
Fishing opportunities: The Logan River running through Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping provides excellent trout fishing spots. "I have grown up camping in the Franklin Basin area. It is the perfect location for anyone looking for places to hike or ride. There are many different places to visit throughout the area such as the 'Plane Crash' site, Beaver Creek, old logging trails, and more," shares Auston T.
Mountain biking trails: Green Canyon Dispersed Campground offers direct access to popular mountain biking routes. "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," notes Steven E. The trails are suitable for beginner to intermediate riders.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at Woodruff Narrows Public Access Area provide excellent bird watching opportunities. "Gorgeous location right next to the lake. It was very quiet and open. We were the only campers there! There was lots of room to play around with the dog," reports Kate M. The reservoir attracts numerous waterfowl species.
Solitude in deeper sites: Campers appreciate the privacy found at more remote locations. "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," shares Kennedy F. about Franklin Basin.
Accessibility options: Many sites cater to different vehicle capabilities. "About 1/4 mile down a dirt road from Hwy 39 is a good single boondocking spot with a great view. Not for large RVs. Our 17 ft trailer with 4x4 was tricky to get into the spot because the loop was so small," notes Brian C. about Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
Water features: Proximity to creeks and reservoirs enhances the camping experience. "We had a creek that flows back and forth around the area, we had that for our soundtrack as we slept," Erika M. mentions. Many primitive camping sites near Fish Haven feature natural water sources.
Fire regulations: Seasonal restrictions apply at most sites around Fish Haven. "Because of the regulations I wasn't able to make a fire and had to stay overnight at the designated camp spot but I would definitely recommend this spot," reports Caitlyn R. about Woodruff Narrows Public Access Area.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality. "Road to dispersed camping is unpaved in fair to poor condition. Quiet and peaceful though," notes Stuart K. High clearance vehicles are recommended for many areas, especially after rain.
Weekend crowds: Popular sites fill quickly on weekends. "There are tons of free site all up and down the main road. The only problem is it is busy if you leave on Friday plan to get there by 3 at the latest. Spots fill quick," advises Bryce R. about Monte Cristo.
Choose sites with room to play: Some primitive camping areas near Fish Haven offer more space for children. "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. Most of the spots are pretty small and would only work for one or two tents or maybe a couple of hammocks," explains Brendan J. about Smithfield Dispersed Campsite.
Check for facilities: Most primitive sites lack amenities. "Stopped in Logan on our way through Utah. Logan has STUNNING and charming views of mountains and an vast valley. Green Canyon was recommended by a friend. Plenty great dispersed sites for car camping. Tons of little spots along a gravel road. Fire rings and multiple clean bathrooms are available," shares Ruby W.
Mosquito preparation: Insects can be problematic in early summer. "I heard it's better in August, but if you camp way further down the mosquitos are absolutely miserable," warns Maddie F. Bring insect repellent when camping between June and July.
Site selection for larger vehicles: Certain areas accommodate RVs better than others. "Very surprised by this dispersed camping. Good Spread, amazing views and the road up ain't bad at all," notes Locoty C. about Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin.
Road assessment: Scout ahead before bringing large rigs. "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. Once the road turn to gravel, it gets steep," cautions Savannah about Fossil Butte National Monument BLM.
Turnaround space: Check for adequate maneuvering room. "No warning that the road narrows with no turn around about a mile into the campground, or the trees are overgrown which scratched up my sides. The only spaces large enough for my 23 ft RV were occupied," warns Sarah C. Most primitive camping locations near Fish Haven have limited space for large vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there free camping spots in Fish Haven near Bear Lake?
Yes, there are several free camping options near Fish Haven and Bear Lake. Woodruff Narrows Public Access Area offers free boondocking about 10 miles off the highway with fairly level sites suitable for larger RVs. Another option is Smithfield Dispersed Campsite, which provides free drive-in and walk-in access. Both locations offer privacy and scenic views, though amenities are minimal.
Where can I find dispersed camping in Fish Haven, Idaho?
While Fish Haven itself has limited dispersed camping, nearby areas offer excellent options. Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping is a popular choice with miles of 2WD-friendly roads extending well into Idaho. For those seeking more remote options, Heart Mountain Spring provides free dispersed camping for up to 21 days. Just be aware that Heart Mountain Spring has limited space and can fill up with longer-term campers during peak season.
What facilities or amenities are available at Fish Haven dispersed camping areas?
Dispersed camping areas around Fish Haven typically offer very minimal amenities. At Green Canyon Dispersed Campground, you'll find two restrooms - one at the trailhead and another further into the canyon. Similarly, Woodruff Narrows Bear Riverside provides pit toilets approximately 6 miles in from the main road. Most dispersed sites feature established fire rings or pits, but otherwise expect to be self-sufficient. There's typically no potable water, electricity, trash service, or other facilities at these locations.
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