Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping offers access to multiple trail networks that extend from Utah into Idaho. Located at an elevation around 7,000 feet, this area features cooler summer temperatures compared to lower valleys, with average July highs of 75-80°F. The road system allows campers to travel approximately 1.5 hours into Idaho while remaining on well-maintained gravel suitable for most vehicles.
What to do
Hiking to natural features: Several hiking trails branch from the main road with minimal elevation gain. The Paris Springs Campground offers a short trail to a small waterfall. As one camper notes, "There's a short 5 minute hike right by campground #4 that leads to an cool waterfall. It was a great way to start the morning."
Fishing in mountain streams: The Logan River provides fishing opportunities throughout the basin. Multiple pull-offs allow easy access to fishing spots. At Cottonwood Lake Campground, a camper reports similar conditions: "The lake is spectacular! it is the prettiest shade of teal... The lake has brown and cutthroat trout. They were jumping like crazy in the evening and the fly fishing was excellent!"
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife including deer, moose, and various bird species. One reviewer at Spring Creek Trailhead mentioned, "Great dispersed camping area. Appears to be used by a lot of hunters. There is a nice big picnic table at one site and a few spots with campfire rings and meat poles."
What campers like
Spacious sites for groups: The basin provides numerous large sites that accommodate multiple vehicles and tents. According to a Franklin Basin visitor: "Amazing location especially because it's close to bear lake! I went by myself on a Friday afternoon and it was super busy but there were still some spots for just a car right off the side of the road."
River access: Many campsites sit directly alongside the Logan River, providing convenient water access. One camper 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 if not on it!"
Remote camping options: Driving deeper into the basin leads to more secluded sites. A visitor reports, "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."
What you should know
Road conditions vary: While the main road is well-maintained, side roads may require higher clearance. A Malad Summit Guard Station visitor warns: "We wanted to try this out with our 28' bumper pull. Luckily it was not a busy weekend, we had to move sites to one that would accommodate. Hard to maneuver in the campground as well as getting up the narrow road."
Water planning: No potable water is available in the basin. Pack in all drinking water needed for your stay. At Hobble Creek Campground, a visitor mentioned that "kids and dogs had fun playing in the nearby creek (water is very cold), with lots of great hiking opportunities."
Site availability challenges: Popular weekends fill quickly, especially near the entrance. A Franklin Basin visitor observed: "Tons of land, tons of campsites.. but most are 'occupied' by empty trailers with no other vehicles or people around. There's empty cars parked on top of fire pits, no tents or any sort of life nearby."
Tips for camping with families
Pack for temperature swings: Evening temperatures can drop significantly even in summer. Bring warm clothing and sleeping bags rated for cooler weather. A Franklin Basin camper noted, "We went at the beginning of June, it was a bit chilly some mornings and at night, so come prepared."
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be prevalent near water, especially in early summer. Bring effective repellent and consider screened shelter options. One camper at Rendezvous Beach mentioned similar concerns: "While the sites are uninspiring with very few shade trees, the beach is right there, the sand is nice, and one can wade out quite far in the water to lounge all day."
Wild berry opportunities: Depending on season, children can enjoy foraging berries near campsites. A Hobble Creek visitor mentioned, "Added bonus, there were a lot of wild strawberries and raspberries in the area."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: The basin roads can accommodate mid-size trailers up to about 30 feet. Longer rigs may struggle with tight turns and limited pull-through options. A Flat Creek RV Park visitor noted that while looking for alternatives: "Quaint place with full hookups and amenities. The men's bathroom was quite dirty but the owners were friendly and the wifi worked well."
Horse campgrounds near Montpelier, Idaho: For those with equestrian needs, Franklin Basin provides suitable camping for horse trailers. One visitor noted, "Lots of spaces here. Big pull-in spots for camper rigs. And some small side pull outs for sedans who don't mind walk-in tent spots."
Campsite selection timing: Arrive mid-week or early morning on weekends to secure suitable sites for larger vehicles. A Franklin Basin camper advised: "I would be cautious if you aren't car camping to make sure you show up earlier than I did (6pm)."
Guide
