Dispersed camping near Providence, Utah offers free primitive sites in nearby canyons of Cache National Forest. The camping areas range from 4,800 feet elevation at lower canyons to over 7,500 feet at higher locations like Monte Cristo and Franklin Basin. Temperatures can vary dramatically by season and elevation, with summer evenings often dropping below 50°F even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s.
What to do
Mountain biking on established trails: Green Canyon features a popular trail system accessible from the Green Canyon Dispersed Campground. "Tons of little spots along a gravel road. Fire rings and multiple clean bathrooms are available. Also tons of trails and mountain bikers. Met some climbers working on a sketch little project on one of the many many boulders," reports a camper.
Rock climbing and bouldering: Several areas provide opportunities for climbing enthusiasts. "There is even a cave up on the left coming in and we saw some people bouldering up there," notes one visitor to Green Canyon. The area features numerous boulder fields and small climbing routes suitable for beginners and intermediate climbers.
Cross-country skiing: During winter, several canyon roads close to vehicles but become groomed trails for cross-country skiing. When roads to dispersed camping areas close in December, winter recreation options expand. The Nordic United group grooms trails in Green Canyon several times weekly during winter months.
What campers like
Seclusion at higher elevations: For those willing to drive further, Monte Cristo dispersed camping offers more isolated sites. "We came during a week day and the whole site was empty! Very quiet, very pretty, and very colorful. There were only two or maybe three spots total, so get here early," shares one camper.
River access: Many sites along Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping provide direct access to the Logan River. "There is a creek that flows back and forth around the area, we had that for our soundtrack as we slept," writes one visitor. River proximity provides ambient sound, fishing opportunities, and natural cooling during summer months.
Fall colors: Aspen groves surrounding many dispersed camping areas create spectacular autumn displays. "It was the end of September and all the leaves were changing. No notes. Can't recommend this spot enough," writes one camper about Monte Cristo. The best color viewing typically occurs from mid-September through early October.
What you should know
Seasonal road closures: Access to many dispersed camping areas depends on seasonal road openings. "Road to dispersed camping is closed Dec 1 - April 15. Permit fee is $10 for 3 days," notes one winter visitor to Green Canyon.
Parking challenges for larger vehicles: Some areas have limited turning space for larger vehicles. "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," cautions a visitor to Smithfield Dispersed Campsite.
Local party spots: Some areas experience heavy nighttime activity, particularly on weekends. "Very loud, with folks driving around until the AM. Definitely a local party spot," warns one camper about Green Canyon. Weekdays typically offer quieter experiences across all dispersed camping locations.
Tips for camping with families
Early arrival for best sites: Popular areas fill quickly, especially on weekends. "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! There was also another spot open down the road," shares a visitor to Green Canyon.
Temperature preparation: Even summer nights can be chilly at higher elevations. "We went at the beginning of June, it was a bit chilly some mornings and at night, so come prepared," advises a camper at Curtis Creek/Arbs Basin.
Wildlife encounters: The area hosts diverse wildlife including deer, elk, and occasionally moose. "Birds in caves in side of valley," notes one camper about rock formations in Green Canyon. Wildlife viewing opportunities are best at dawn and dusk.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions for smaller RVs: Most roads to dispersed sites can accommodate smaller trailers and RVs. "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," shares an RV camper at Monte Cristo.
Franklin Basin lower section access: Franklin Basin Road provides easier access for larger rigs. "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. There are also a few dispersed spots down in this lower area," explains a visitor.
Cellular connectivity considerations: Cell service varies widely throughout the dispersed camping areas. "We had cell service via t-mobile, att&t, and visible with varying strengths," notes one Green Canyon camper, while another reports "NO cell phone signal at all" at Franklin Basin Road.
