Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping offers multiple primitive sites located within 20 miles of Hyde Park at 6,500-7,000 feet elevation. The area features a mix of aspen and pine forest habitat with access to Logan River and several trail systems. Camping is available from late May through October, depending on snow conditions.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Riders can access several interconnected trail systems near Paris Springs Campground, providing various terrain options. "The drive up to our site was amazingly beautiful, and the campground hosts were very attentive and thoughtful," notes Jordan K. "There's a short 5 minute hike right by campground #4 that leads to a cool waterfall."
Waterfall hiking: Take the trail near North Fork County Park to reach a waterfall within the canyon. "Had a great stay at North Fork. Camped in the canyon near the trailhead for the waterfall hike," shares Rich J. "We stayed at campsite 6 which was great, but they were all really nice. Excellent mountain bike trails also."
Lake activities: Day trips to nearby lakes provide swimming and boating options. The water at Bear Lake reaches comfortable temperatures by mid-July. "The lake is clean and still very natural. The swans circling the water are something to see," reports Meredith S. about her stay at Willard Bay State Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Hyrum State Park Campground features larger campsites with shade and amenities. "Grassy and shady on most sites. Two bathhouses and a dump on site. Picnic tables and fire rings at each site. They also have a couple of cabins available," explains Brenda L., describing the layout as "very peaceful and enjoyable."
Solitude options: For those seeking quieter equestrian camping near Hyde Park, the more remote areas provide seclusion. "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.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities are available at established campgrounds. "Bathrooms were clean and camp host was nice and helpful," notes David H. about North Fork County Park, while Nathan D. appreciates that Hyrum State Park has "handicap accessible bathrooms and showers, plenty of hot water!"
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some horse-friendly camping areas requires careful driving. "The road gets narrower as you drive up the canyon and the campsites are spread out along the way over about 5+ miles. I wouldn't recommend going too far in with a big trailer," cautions Jake S. about Franklin Basin.
Seasonal considerations: Plan your equestrian trip during optimal months. "We went at the beginning of June, it was a bit chilly some mornings and at night, so come prepared," advises Kennedy F. Campgrounds at higher elevations typically close after first significant snowfall.
Reservation requirements: Cottonwood Campground at Willard Bay enforces strict check-in times. "They DO NOT allow early arrival and will turn you away before 3pm even if the site is empty," notes Erin A. Many established campgrounds require advance reservations during summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Beach access provides easy entertainment for children. "There is beach access which is great. Facilities are nice and well maintained," writes Sandra W. about Hyrum State Park, while Rara B. notes, "There's a nature trail through the grounds, a nice playground, and a 5 min walk to the beach."
Site selection: Choose areas with natural features for exploration. "Our family has our annual family reunion in Mustang Flats every summer, CW8 & CW9 are great for 5 families because they're connected by a little road," shares Fale L. about North Fork County Park.
Safety considerations: Select established campgrounds for added security when traveling with children. "Perfect for a night in the Logan area — it's located within a neighborhood on a lake. Felt much safer than other rustic options nearby," explains Shawnee about Hyrum State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer electrical connections and water access. "We've taken our canoe on many occasions and are close enough to portage from the campsite to the lake, and back, several times a day with no problem!" notes Derek E. about Willard Bay State Park.
Site limitations: Check size restrictions before bringing larger RVs to horse-friendly camping areas. "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," reports David T. about Malad Summit Guard Station.
Cell coverage: Some dispersed camping areas have limited connectivity. "Enough Verizon reception to FaceTime with the family," reports John Rushton A. about Dock Flat Campground, while johny R. notes about Franklin Basin, "If this place had cell signal it would be one of the best spots ever."
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