Dispersed camping sites around Corinne, Utah offer rustic camping experiences throughout the Cache National Forest and surrounding public lands. Most sites sit at elevations between 5,000-8,000 feet, with temperatures dropping significantly at night even in summer months. Primitive camping options vary from creek-side spots along canyon roads to more remote mountain locations with established fire rings and minimal amenities.
What to do
Explore creek access: Multiple sites along Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping follow the Logan River. "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 trails such as the 'Plane Crash' site, Beaver Creek, old logging trails, and more," notes camper Auston T.
Mountain biking trails: Local trails support riders of all skill levels. "There is a mountain bike/trail running/hiking trail that goes through the canyon as well," says Lucille W. about the Green Canyon area. Another camper mentioned seeing "climbers working on a sketch little project on one of the many boulders" in the same area.
Wildlife viewing: The Middle Fork Conservation Area offers chances to spot deer and elk. "We camped the first night that lot camping was allowed (9/10) so it was quiet and peaceful. It is down a dirt road in a valley surrounded by cattle and deer and elk. Beautiful sunset and moonrise," reports Janelle K.
What campers like
Solitude in some areas: Many seek the quieter sites away from populated areas. "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," writes Kennedy F. about Franklin Basin.
Easy access sites: Some locations are suitable for quick overnight stays. "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.
Fall colors: The aspens make autumn camping especially attractive. "We came during a week day and the whole site was empty! Very quiet, very pretty, and very colorful," says Karson M. about the Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo area.
What you should know
Site availability timing: Weekend competition for spots can be fierce. "If you leave on Friday plan to get there by 3 at the latest. Spots fill quick," warns Bryce R. about Monte Cristo sites.
Road conditions vary: Some areas require higher clearance vehicles. "The road is rough and very bumpy," notes Kaden M. about Franklin Basin, while others like johny R. report that Franklin Basin has a "2wd friendly road for MILES" and that "you can drive for about 1.5 hours up in here and see amazing river meadow mountain views."
Seasonal challenges: Mosquitoes can be problematic in certain areas. "If you camp way further down the mosquitoes are absolutely miserable," reports one camper about Franklin Basin, adding "I heard it's better in August."
Local activity levels: Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin offers a quieter experience than some other areas. "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," writes Hannah M.
Tips for camping with families
Scout road conditions: Several roads leading to rustic camping near Corinne require planning. "I got my car stuck in a ditch trying to pull into one of the further spots. Bumper is now falling off and I think one of the rocks gave my tire a leak," warns Maddie F. about Franklin Basin.
Bathroom access: Plan for primitive conditions at most sites. At Spiral Jetty, one camper notes there are no toilets available, while at Green Canyon "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."
Temperature preparation: Nights can be cold even in summer. Kennedy F. warns about Monte Cristo: "We went at the beginning of June, it was a bit chilly some mornings and at night, so come prepared."
Tips from RVers
Smaller rigs recommended: Most sites have limited space. "The only spaces large enough for my 23 ft RV were occupied, and all of the car-sized spots were also taken," reports Sarah C. about Spiral Jetty, calling the experience "crowded, small spaces."
Warning about narrow roads: Some canyon roads become challenging for larger vehicles. "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," continues Sarah C. about her RV experience.
Good spots for smaller trailers: Brian C. found success with his smaller setup: "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."
