Dispersed camping near Hyrum, Utah provides free overnight options throughout the Cache National Forest. The area sits between 5,000 and 7,000 feet elevation, creating distinct camping conditions at different sites. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F, while spring and fall can bring unexpected frost and precipitation. Road access varies significantly by season, with most areas closed to vehicles from December through mid-April.
What to do
Hiking from camp: Several camping areas connect directly to trail systems. Green Canyon Dispersed Campground offers access to popular hiking routes. "Cool rock visuals above a majority of the sites. Also tons of trails and mountain bikers. Met some climbers working on a sketch little project on one of the many many boulders," notes reviewer Ruby W.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin offers a secluded setting for wildlife viewing. "We stayed here for the night on our rooftop tent. It's very quiet, barely any people... It's chilly and very pretty around. Nice view of the sunset," writes Hannah M.
Creek access: Many dispersed sites offer direct water access. The sound of running water creates a natural soundtrack at several locations. "There is a creek that flows back and forth around the area, we had that for our soundtrack as we slept," explains Erika M. about her experience at Franklin Basin.
What campers like
Accessibility options: Sites range from roadside pullouts to more remote locations. "2wd friendly road for MILES. You can drive well into Idaho. You can drive for about 1.5 hours up in here and see amazing river meadow mountain views," shares johny R. about Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping.
Variety of site sizes: The area offers everything from small tent spots to large group areas. "There are nice size and spread out dispersed camping spots along the way. Just make sure you stick to the gravel road as you go up, dont turn off," continues johny R. about Franklin Basin.
Seasonal beauty: Fall brings spectacular leaf displays while spring offers wildflowers. "We could not have asked for a more perfect spot. The views were immaculate, the sites were very spread out, it was the end of September and all the leaves were changing," reports Colyer D. about Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
What you should know
Site availability timing: Popular areas fill quickly, especially on weekends. "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 which worked fine for me since I was car camping, but I would be cautious if you aren't car camping to make sure you show up earlier than I did (6pm)," advises Maddie F. about Franklin Basin.
Cell service limitations: Signal strength varies dramatically between areas. Curtis Creek has no service at all according to reviews. "We had cell service via t-mobile, att&t, and visible with varying strengths," reports CrookedSnake about Green Canyon, though other areas have no coverage.
Noise considerations: Some areas experience significant traffic and visitor activity. Smithfield Dispersed Campsite can be busy during peak seasons. "Lots of trucks, razors, and ATVs. BUT the canyon itself is cool and pretty," notes Lucille W. about the Green Canyon area.
Tips for camping with families
Road condition awareness: Some access roads deteriorate after rain or during early/late season. "Also 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," warns Maddie F. about Franklin Basin.
Space for activities: Several areas offer room for children to explore safely. "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 places to visit throughout the area such as the 'Plane Crash' site, Beaver Creek, old logging trails, and more," shares Auston T.
Site selection timing: Arrive early for the best family-friendly spots. "This is now my current go to for last minute camping. Picked a pull-off spot about 10 min up the highway and was really surprised. It went pretty deep and and truly felt like I was away," writes Nathan S. about Monte Cristo Pull-off.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many sites can't accommodate larger rigs. "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," advises Brian C. at Monte Cristo.
Turn-around options: Some roads narrow without proper turn-around areas. "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," cautions sarah C. about Smithfield Dispersed Camping.
Elevation considerations: Higher elevation sites require better vehicle power. "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," notes Robert S. about Franklin Basin dispersed areas.
