Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping sits at approximately 7,800 feet elevation in the Wasatch-Cache National Forest. The area experiences cool mountain temperatures even in summer, with nighttime lows often dropping into the 40s. Camping sites can be found along a 10-mile stretch of gravel road that follows the Logan River, with most sites located within 30-60 feet of the water.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The Franklin Basin area connects with several trails suitable for horse riding, including trails that extend into Idaho. At North Fork County Park, "there's a short waterfall hike, but also a long hike that will take you up to Ben Lomond Peak & cut across to Willard Peak. Go when there's no smoke and you'll have breathtaking views (I'd say May & June are your best bet)."
Fishing access: The Logan River provides excellent fishing access for campers at Franklin Basin. At Hyrum State Park Campground, "the beach is close you can cook and play, drive your food and gear down to the water. Sand is not real fine a little closer to dirt but kids had a good time."
Mountain biking: Several trails near Franklin Basin cater to mountain bikers of varying skill levels. At North Fork Park, campers report they "had a great stay at North Fork. Camped in the canyon near the trailheaad for the waterfall hike... Excellent mountain bike trails also. Can't wait to go back and ride more of them."
What campers like
Wide open spaces: The dispersed nature of Franklin Basin provides privacy between campsites. At Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping, "I've camped here several times since I was a child. It's nice that there is a river that runs nearby. There are about 50 campsites on a first come first served basis."
Natural surroundings: The mountain meadows and forest setting create a peaceful environment. One camper at Middle Fork Conservation Area noted: "We camped the first night that lot camping was allowed (9/10) so it was quiet and peaceful. It is down a dirt road in a valley surrounded by cattle and deer and elk. Beautiful sunset and moonrise."
Camping along water: Many sites at Franklin Basin offer direct access to the Logan River. At Franklin Basin, "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."
What you should know
Road conditions: While generally accessible, the road can present challenges in wet conditions or for certain vehicles. One camper at Dock Flat Campground advised: "Gate doesn't open until Memorial Day weekend. Keep that in mind when planning a visit here. TONS of places to camp further up if you are in a tent. Trailers should stick to the lower sections as it gets a bit difficult to navigate past the second campground."
Seasonal considerations: Franklin Basin typically opens after snowmelt, around late May to early June. At Franklin Basin, "I heard it's better in August, but if you camp way further down the mosquitos are absolutely miserable."
Crowding on weekends: The area becomes busy during summer weekends. Franklin Basin campers note, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for temperature swings: Mountain elevations mean significant day-to-night temperature changes. One visitor to Franklin Basin mentioned: "We went at the beginning of June, it was a bit chilly some mornings and at night, so come prepared."
Bring water: No potable water is available at dispersed sites. A camper at Paris Springs Campground noted: "The only issues that we had was that the water running to each campsite wasn't drinkable so it was shut off. They discounted our nightly price in half which was nice though."
Prepare for insects: Depending on season, mosquitoes can be problematic near water. At Franklin Basin, campers report that "if you camp way further down the mosquitos are absolutely miserable."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Large RVs may struggle on the narrower sections of road. A visitor to Dock Flat noted: "The location is beautiful, and full of deer. My partner and I are just starting out full time rv life and this was the first spot we stayed at. We got there late at night and were able to make it to the first site in our 30' bumper pull, but anything bigger than that would likely have a lot of trouble getting up the very bendy dirt road."
Site selection for horse trailers: When seeking equestrian camping near Logan, Utah, choose sites in the first few miles of Franklin Basin Road. One camper observed: "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."
Arrival timing: For the best site selection, especially for horse camping, arrive early. At Franklin Basin, "I would be cautious if you aren't car camping to make sure you show up earlier than I did (6pm)."
