Dispersed camping near Mendon, Utah offers primitive sites with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 feet in the Cache National Forest. The area receives high visitation during summer weekends with temperatures typically ranging from 45°F at night to 85°F during peak days. Most sites require visitors to bring their own water and pack out all waste.
What to do
Mountain biking on Green Canyon trail: The trail system runs alongside Green Canyon Road with routes suitable for various skill levels. A visitor noted, "Met some climbers working on a sketch little project on one of the many many boulders. Sounds like there's some legit stuff farther down the canyon" at Green Canyon Dispersed Campground.
Fishing access points: Several dispersed sites offer creek access for fishing, particularly in Smithfield area. "It's very beautiful with lots of greenery and a river through the whole canyon," reports one camper at Smithfield Dispersed Campsite.
Wildlife viewing: The canyons surrounding Mendon provide opportunities to spot deer, elk and various bird species. One visitor to the conservation area mentioned, "It is down a dirt road in a valley surrounded by cattle and deer and elk. Beautiful sunset and moonrise."
What campers like
Creek sounds for sleeping: Many campers appreciate the natural soundtrack at night. One camper at Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping shared: "There is a creek that flows back and forth around the area, we had that for our soundtrack as we slept."
Seasonal colors: Fall camping offers spectacular foliage views. A visitor to Monte Cristo reported: "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."
Seclusion options: Driving further into some areas rewards campers with privacy. "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."
What you should know
Weekend availability challenges: Sites fill extremely quickly Thursday through Saturday. "If you leave on Friday plan to get there by 3 at the latest. Spots fill quick," warns a camper at Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
Weather preparation: Temperature swings can be significant. "We went at the beginning of June, it was a bit chilly some mornings and at night, so come prepared."
Road conditions: Access roads vary considerably in quality. "The road is dirt and bumpy so be prepared for that but I've never had a problem finding a spot," reports one Smithfield visitor. Another notes, "it's pretty rocky so be careful if you don't trust your car/have low clearance."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education opportunities: The Middle Fork Conservation Area offers chances to teach children about local ecosystems. A visitor noted, "A local ranger came by to chat and told us it can get busy with local homeless people and drug users, just FYI. But overall we felt completely safe and our neighbors were nice and friendly!"
Quieter weekday visits: For fewer crowds and more peace, camp Monday through Thursday. "We stayed here for the night on our rooftop tent. It's very quiet, barely any people," reports a visitor to Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin.
Site selection timing: Arrive by early afternoon for best site choices. "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!"
Tips from RVers
Size-appropriate sites: Some areas accommodate larger vehicles while others don't. "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."
Pull-in options: Franklin Basin offers better RV accessibility. "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."
Lower elevation parking: Some areas have designated RV sections. "This is just the lower section! Pull in off the highway you will see a large gravel loop to your left. With bathrooms. This is the big rig area."
