Green Canyon Dispersed Campground sits at approximately 5,300 feet elevation in Cache National Forest, just north of Logan, Utah. The area experiences hot summer days with cool evenings and cold winters with significant snowfall. Camping sites extend along a gravel road with increasing elevation gain, and seasonal road closures affect access from December through mid-April.
What to do
Hiking the Wind Caves Trail: Located near Guinavah - Malibu Campground, this popular trail offers a moderate challenge. "Across the road is the Wind Caves Trailhead. Just down the road is the Crimson Trail Head. Liked this campground because it was quiet and intimate," notes one visitor.
Mountain biking on local trails: The canyon offers numerous routes for biking enthusiasts. At Wood Camp Campground, campers appreciate the trail access. "It has easy access to the Jardine Juniper trail which is only about 200 yards away," one camper reports.
Kayaking at Hyrum State Park: The reservoir provides water recreation options when the weather is warm. "It's right on a small lake with a boat ramp and a small beach. The campground is small… about 8 or 9 sites with w/e and about a dozen sites with dry camping," shares a recent visitor.
What campers like
Peaceful creek sounds: Many campers at Smithfield Campground appreciate the natural water features. "The small campground features five or six campsites that are spaced nicely and are all very clean... And the river adds a lot of ambient noise that's awesome," writes one reviewer.
Shade during hot months: Trees provide crucial coverage during summer heat waves. "This campground is just off the road going up Logan canyon. It is set right next to the river which helps drown out the noise from the road. The entire camp site (6 sites) is completely protected by large Willow trees," notes a camper at Wood Camp Campground.
Winter recreation options: When snow blankets the area, activities shift. At Green 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."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some areas require payment for use. "Road to dispersed camping is closed Dec 1 - April 15. Permit fee is $10 for 3 days," reports a winter camper at Green Canyon Dispersed Campground.
Traffic patterns: Proximity to Logan means campsites can fill quickly, especially on weekends. "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! There was also another spot open down the road."
Gate closures: Hyrum State Park Campground implements overnight restrictions. "It is totally fenced and gated. The gates close at 10pm and open at 6am," which affects late arrivals or evening outings.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow water play areas: Spring Hollow offers kid-friendly water features. "The spring was fun for the kids to play in. There was a small dam at the bottom where the kids could swim and kayak."
Pet-friendly trail selection: For families with dogs, morning timing matters. "This canyon is within the Cache National Forest. Just outside of Logan, UT. Super easy access to a neat little canyon," making it accessible for families with varied hiking abilities.
Campsite spacing considerations: Families appreciate room between sites. At Smithfield Dispersed Camping, "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."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for dispersed sites: Many dispersed camping areas have limited space. "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."
Level pad availability: RVers should note which campgrounds offer suitable parking. "The sites are super nice and level, and have great grass area to relax in," notes a visitor to Traveland RV Park.
Hookup options: Full-service alternatives exist for those needing amenities. "We were running out of options for places to stay as most things were completely full. This was a wonderful surprise when we found it. Their after hours check in process was organized and amazing."