Best Dispersed Camping near Logan, UT
Dispersed camping areas surround Logan, Utah, offering free primitive sites on public lands. Green Canyon Dispersed Campground provides approximately 15-25 sites during summer months on a first-come, first-served basis. Most sites include established fire rings, though site conditions vary due to heavy use. Smithfield Dispersed Campsite features smaller spots suitable for one or two tents along both sides of the road after passing the main campground. Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping, located off Highway 89, presents numerous sites along a well-maintained road, many positioned near the Logan River.
Access roads to these areas are generally navigable by standard vehicles. According to reviews, "My Honda Civic was able to navigate the gravel road far back into the canyon," though some rougher sections exist. Most sites have stone fire rings, but fire restrictions are common during dry periods. No drinking water is available at these locations; visitors must bring all necessary supplies. Vault toilets are present at Green Canyon's parking lot and further up the canyon, but other areas have minimal facilities.
These dispersed sites experience high visitation, particularly on weekends and during summer months. Green Canyon fills quickly, with campers reporting "all spots filled by 7pm" on busy nights. The area attracts mountain bikers, hikers, and ATV users, creating moderate traffic on access roads even after dark. Winter access is limited, with Green Canyon's road closed December 1 through April 15 for cross-country skiing. A $10 three-day permit is required during certain periods. Franklin Basin can be chilly even in early summer, with campers noting temperatures drop significantly at night. The surrounding Cache National Forest offers excellent recreational opportunities, including hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and wildlife viewing.
