Dispersed camping near Preston, Idaho offers secluded sites across public lands at elevations ranging from 4,700 to 7,500 feet. Temperatures can fluctuate widely, with summer highs reaching 90°F and nighttime lows dropping below 50°F even in July. Most camping areas remain accessible from late April through October, though higher elevations may close earlier due to snow.
What to do
Hiking trails: Franklin Basin Road provides access to numerous hiking opportunities along the Logan River. "There are many different places to visit throughout the area such as the 'Plane Crash' site, Beaver Creek, old logging trails, and more," notes Auston T. from Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping.
Mountain biking: Green Canyon features popular mountain biking trails that run alongside the main road. One camper observed, "Tons of people camping, hiking, mountain biking, and ATVs, so some traffic on the road, even after dark. Road ends a few miles in with a closed gate." Another mentioned "tons of little spots along a gravel road" with "tons of trails and mountain bikers."
Fishing access: Indian Rocks Dispersed Camping offers a convenient base for anglers heading to nearby fishing spots. Several campers note its strategic location: "This is a safe spot for overnight. Nice views of mountains. There is highway noise," writes Cyndy & Selena R.
What campers like
River proximity: Many sites at Franklin Basin Road sit adjacent to water. "Sites are easily accessible and close to Logan river if not on it!" writes Chris A. Another camper mentioned, "There is a creek that flows back and forth around the area, we had that for our soundtrack as we slept."
Cell service availability: Coverage varies significantly by location and carrier. At Heart Mountain Spring, campers report limited connectivity, while at Indian Rocks, users note better options: "We got three bars of Verizon out of five total bars. No freeway noise."
Spacing between sites: Many dispersed areas offer good separation between campsites. At Indian Rocks, one camper observed, "the spaces are spread out a nice distance so that we aren't right next to our neighbors." Another noted finding "the most perfect spot. Nobody was near us and the view was amazing."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads vary widely in quality. At Indian Rocks, "The road into dispersed camping is full of pot holes so go slow with a Class A RV or if you have low clearance." Another camper advised, "This area used to be a state park but the state abandoned it and removed all their facilities. It is now under BLM jurisdiction."
Site availability timing: Smithfield Dispersed Campsite and other popular areas fill quickly on weekends. "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," noted Brendan J.
Weather preparation: Temperatures can drop substantially at night, even in summer. Kennedy F. reported, "We went at the beginning of June, it was a bit chilly some mornings and at night, so come prepared."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategies: For groups with children, larger sites can be found at Franklin Basin. "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," reports Maddie F.
Noise considerations: Some areas experience significant traffic noise. At Portneuf Lower Sportsmen's Access, a camper noted it's "right off the road and even closer to a train that passed through multiple times at night." Green Canyon can be busy, with one camper reporting it was "Very loud, with folks driving around until the AM. Definitely a local party spot."
Facility planning: Most dispersed sites lack amenities. Green Canyon has "Vault toilets in the parking lot at the bottom, as well as at the very top where Green Canyon meets water shed Canyon." At other locations, campers need to pack out all waste.
Tips from RVers
Parking logistics: Many sites accommodate smaller RVs but have limitations. At Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin, campers report successful stays with rooftop tents but note limited cell service. Another camper enjoyed the "dirt road, trees, nature, everything about it basically the hills and country."
Roadway challenges: High-clearance vehicles have advantages on many access roads. A camper at Franklin Basin cautioned, "if you keep driving for maybe 20-30min down the road there's even more beautiful spots, but it's pretty rocky so be careful if you don't trust your car/have low clearance."
Overnight options: Several areas serve well for single-night stays. At Indian Rocks, a camper called it "a great nights sleep. 8+ spots. We stoped here on our way to Yellowstone," while another labeled it "Not a place we'd stay for long, but perfect for an overnight stop."
