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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."
"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."
"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."
"Was hoping to go further in to the more dispersed camping, but the road was blocked with a snow berm. Ended up being a decent spot for the night. Quiet and cold, which is what I was after."
"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."
"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"
"Very private boondocking area about 10 miles off the highway. Wide open area; fairly level in the campsites we saw."
"I wandered in after dark and the dirt road was easy to navigate. No one was around for miles which was quite nice! A few people drove past (I assume to go hunting) but not much traffic noise."
"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."
"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."
"Two nice boondocking spots just a short drive on a tight dirt road off the highway. The campsite on the right is bigger, the one on the left is very small."
"The coordinates on the map are not exactly right for this campsite, at least in early may."
TravelerBeautiful 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!
GuideIt’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.
ScoutNot 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.
TravelerAbout 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. Has a fire pit but with fire restrictions we didn’t have a fire. The view is fantastic of hills covered with aspen and fir trees. Quiet but cars can be heard now and then.
There are many other boondocking spots in this area but this one is a good one.
TravelerTwo nice boondocking spots just a short drive on a tight dirt road off the highway. The campsite on the right is bigger, the one on the left is very small. Very popular for hunters in September, so you'll have lots of people walking right by your camp. The views are beautiful, but it can get quite blustery. We weren't able to have a fire when we stayed there.
ScoutThe 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.
TravelerDidn’t stay, it’s right next to the road maybe for a camper van not for a truck and 30’ camper
GuideGreen 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!
LegendDon't overlook the turn off 101, unless you're aiming for a rancher's yard!
Opting for the established pull-off was a great decision, offering pit toilets and a mere 10-foot distance from the lake. A perfect backdrop for relaxation and recreation. However, the Wyoming wind made its presence felt, proving to be the only downside to an otherwise delightful stay.
This lakeside spot is a gem for nature enthusiasts, with its easy access and scenic charm. Just ensure you don't miss that essential turn off 101. While the wind might test your patience, the overall experience makes it a trip worth embarking on.
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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