Dispersed camping near Lewiston, Utah includes several free primitive campsites in the surrounding Cache National Forest, making it a practical option for self-sufficient campers who prefer no-cost, low-infrastructure stays. Green Canyon Dispersed Campground, Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping, and Smithfield Dispersed Campsite offer no-cost options for self-sufficient campers. These areas feature established fire rings at most sites, though fire restrictions are frequently implemented during dry periods. According to reviews, Green Canyon provides between 15-25 sites on a first-come, first-served basis, with some group sites that can accommodate larger gatherings.
Road conditions vary significantly between locations. Franklin Basin Road is generally well-maintained and accessible to most vehicles, while some sites require high-clearance or 4WD vehicles. Several campers noted that Green Canyon's gravel road is navigable even by standard passenger cars. Most dispersed sites lack amenities such as drinking water, hookups, or garbage service. Vault toilets are available at Green Canyon's trailhead and at points along the canyon. Campers should pack out all trash and bring sufficient water for their stay.
These areas experience variable weather conditions, particularly at higher elevations. Franklin Basin can be chilly in the mornings and evenings, even during summer months. Winter access is limited, with Green Canyon's road closed from December 1 to April 15. A permit fee of $10 for three days may be required at some locations. Cell service is spotty throughout the region, with some coverage reported at Green Canyon. Visitors should be prepared for varying levels of activity; Green Canyon tends to be busier due to its proximity to Logan and popularity with mountain bikers, hikers, and local recreationists. Franklin Basin and Smithfield sites typically offer more solitude, especially on weekdays or during shoulder seasons.
"About 15 mins outside of Logan up a beautiful canyon. 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!"
"Easy to find by putting the coordinates provided in Google Maps. Came in after dark and easily found a site about 1/4 mile or so up the road. Road is a bit bumpy but nothing major."
"While there are a lot of disbursed sites along the corridor, they were all completely filled due to a bike race happening at nearby Beaver Mountain."
"Easily accessible spot off FR 006. Found shady, mostly level spot to park van right off the road. Peaceful location. Fire pit in the camp area. No amenities."
"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."
"Stayed here for two nights, at the end of a dead end road, close to the creek. Real easy place to be."
"Very easy access off 89. Very large sites with fire rings start about 1/4 off the main road. Only one other site being used that I saw. Pit toilet available at the large parking area."
"Pull in off thr highway you will see a large gravel loop to your left. With bathrooms. This is the big rig area. There are also a few dispersed spots down in this lower area."
"Amazing place to camp right next to the river. The entrance you go across the bridge. It looks low, but a 13.5 RV can make it under no problem."
"Didn’t stay, it’s right next to the road maybe for a camper van not for a truck and 30’ camper"
"The coordinates on the map are not exactly right for this campsite, at least in early may."
GuideThis had amazing views, including a cool cave. However, the road is very bumpy and the spots are smaller. It would not be good for a larger RV. The spots fill up very quickly.
GuideThe camper sites are big. Kinda rough and weedy though. The trail along the river is awesome though!
TravelerNice level spots - interesting views by the river - toilet - close to lava hot springs but…the train went by several times during the night and blew its horn so many times it was a poor nights sleep
RangerVery easy access off 89. Very large sites with fire rings start about 1/4 off the main road. Only one other site being used that I saw. Pit toilet available at the large parking area. Clean and well kept. No cell service. Free range cows.
ScoutWhile there are a lot of disbursed sites along the corridor, they were all completely filled due to a bike race happening at nearby Beaver Mountain. We continued up and finally found a nice camp site just on the south side of Utah border but it turned out to be on private property. There’s a small stretch of a private property near the state line marked by a sign posted cattle grate. The property owner stopped by, he was super polite, but explained the boundaries and asked us to move along.
In many spots on the road on the way up there were wide open areas where a single camper had claimed a large area, even sites that could comfortably accommodate several rigs, so just a few things to watch out for.
TravelerEasily accessible spot off FR 006. Found shady, mostly level spot to park van right off the road. Peaceful location. Fire pit in the camp area. No amenities.
TravelerIt isn't to far from a town, spots are not close together, close to the water to either swim or fish. Pet friendly. Down side. Gravel for tent sites No shade And from 6pm on all you hear are trains
ScoutThe drive is doable in any vehicle, the road has many dips/ruts so it is slow going. The area was pretty and green, there are spots available with fire rings.
This campground is extremely busy that it is impossible to enjoy a peaceful time outdoors. From the few hours I was there, there were people constantly walking or biking on the road.
While I was sleeping, I was woken up by a police officer questioning me. Police will come and question you; be prepared to speak to the police and explain what you are doing there, how long you are there for, and any other questions they have for you.
This was the absolute worst campground I’ve ever been to; do not recommend this to anyone who is looking for a peaceful and pleasant experience.
You may find a spot that looks nice, but be prepared for vehicles, lots of people, and to be questioned by the police.
ScoutThe app said that overnight camping would be allowed in the parking lot and within a third of the mile, the parking area from the second there's a sign that expressly prohibits this exact thing. Saturday of April through September 9th. This is incorrect. There's a sign that expressly prohibits this exact thing.
Dispersed camping sites near Lewiston, Utah provide access to Cache National Forest at elevations ranging from 5,200 to 8,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F while dropping to 30-40°F at night at higher elevations. Most dispersed sites in this area require campers to practice Leave No Trace principles and remain accessible from May through October.
Mountain biking trails: Green Canyon offers extensive trail systems for mountain bikers. "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 one Green Canyon Dispersed Campground visitor.
Cross-country skiing: Winter recreation options exist despite road closures. "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. Trail is also used during the winter for snowshoeing, as well as Fat Tire snow biking."
Hiking to unique spots: The area contains several notable hiking destinations. "There are many different places to visit throughout the area such as the 'Plane Crash' site, Beaver Creek, old logging trails, and more," explains a camper at Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping.
Riverside camping: Many sites sit directly adjacent to water features. "It's a very pretty canyon with a creek running through it," notes a reviewer at Smithfield Dispersed Campsite. Another camper adds, "Stayed here for two nights, at the end of a dead end road, close to the creek. Real easy place to be."
Panoramic views: The mountainous terrain provides scenic vistas. "The views are beautiful, but it can get quite blustery. We weren't able to have a fire when we stayed there," explains a visitor to Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
Privacy options: Site layouts vary from social to secluded. "There are close spots for small couples and large groups and also more private spacious spots for people with pets like me," notes a Green Canyon camper. For those seeking total isolation, "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."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans occur regularly. "We went at the beginning of June, it was a bit chilly some mornings and at night, so come prepared," warns a Franklin Basin camper, highlighting the need for alternate heat sources when fire restrictions are in place.
Road conditions: Access varies significantly by location. "This road is rough and very bumpy," notes one Franklin Basin visitor, while another mentions, "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."
Site occupation patterns: During peak season, finding free camping near Lewiston can require strategy. "Tons of land, tons of campsites.. but most are 'occupied' by empty trailers with no other vehicles or people around," reports one Franklin Basin visitor. For Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin, the experience differs: "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."
Bathroom access: Plan accordingly for limited facilities. "Pit toilets and the entrance and a little bit up the road, very clean!" reports a Green Canyon visitor. Most sites lack toilets entirely, requiring self-contained solutions.
Site selection timing: Arrive early to secure suitable spots. "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 a Franklin Basin camper.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require layering strategies. "It was a bit chilly some mornings and at night, so come prepared," notes one camper about early June conditions at higher elevations near Lewiston.
Size limitations: Many dispersed sites accommodate only smaller rigs. "Not sure where precious reviewer went but the GPS coordinates are for a dirt pull out beside a narrow spring. A mile further uphill on dirt road is a small camping area," reports a visitor to Heart Mountain Spring, highlighting the importance of accurate location information.
Level surfaces: Finding flat parking for larger vehicles requires scouting. "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," notes a Monte Cristo camper.
Road clearance needs: Some access roads require specific vehicle capabilities. "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," warns a Smithfield visitor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Lewiston, UT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Lewiston, UT is Green Canyon Dispersed Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 17 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Lewiston, UT?
TheDyrt.com has all 18 dispersed camping locations near Lewiston, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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