Best Dispersed Camping near North Logan, UT
Dispersed camping near North Logan, Utah is concentrated in several free primitive areas across Cache National Forest, particularly in Green Canyon, Franklin Basin, and Smithfield Canyon. These areas feature undeveloped sites with fire rings but minimal other infrastructure. Most sites are first-come, first-served with no reservation system, and camping is typically permitted for 14 days. Green Canyon Dispersed Campground, located approximately 15 minutes from Logan, offers the most accessible options with multiple pull-off spots along a gravel road.
Access roads to these dispersed sites vary significantly in quality. Green Canyon has a maintained gravel road suitable for most vehicles, while Franklin Basin and Smithfield Canyon routes may require higher clearance, especially after rain. Some areas become impassable during winter months, with Green Canyon road closing December 1 to April 15. A camper noted, "The road is a bit bumpy but nothing major. Our truck handled it with ease, but even a sedan would probably be fine." Most sites lack drinking water, hookups, or sanitary dump stations. Vault toilets are available at Green Canyon entrance and at Franklin Basin, but most areas have no restroom facilities.
These primitive camping areas tend to be heavily used, especially on weekends and during summer months. Green Canyon experiences significant traffic due to its proximity to Logan and Utah State University, with mountain bikers, hikers, and local visitors frequently passing through. One visitor observed, "Very busy with lots of road traffic even until late," while another mentioned it's "notorious for high school gatherings." Franklin Basin offers more solitude, particularly for those willing to travel farther down the access road. A camper reported, "Ended up driving this road up to Idaho to find a bigger spot and some solitude." Curtis Creek and Monte Cristo areas provide additional options with generally less crowding and beautiful mountain scenery, though they require longer drives from North Logan.
