Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping provides free camping opportunities for equestrian enthusiasts approximately 30 miles east of Logan. The area sits at an elevation of 7,000-8,000 feet and features several meadows along the Logan River. Access requires traveling up Logan Canyon on Highway 89, with the well-maintained gravel road continuing into Idaho territory. While popular with horse owners, the area also accommodates tent campers and RVs.
What to do
Trail riding for all levels: Explore extensive trail networks suitable for different riding abilities. At North Fork County Park, "There's a hidden waterfall you can hike too, and a river runs through the park. It's a must!" according to Debbie P. The park offers terrain for both beginners and experienced riders.
Fishing access: Find multiple spots along Logan River for fishing. Camper Janelle K. notes about nearby areas: "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."
Mountain biking: Ride the forest service roads and designated trails. Rich J. reports about North Fork County Park: "Had a great stay at North Fork. Camped in the canyon near the trailheaad for the waterfall hike. We stayed at campsite 6 which was great, but they were all really nice. Excellent mountain bike trails also."
What campers like
River proximity: Many sites allow direct access to Logan River for livestock watering. At Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping, camper johny R. notes: "The sites can be a little buggy but many have direct river access or beaver pond access."
Spacious campsites: Areas accommodate multiple horses and portable corrals. Dave D. mentions that at North Fork County Park: "each of the sites seem to have plenty of space for any type of camping you do, and are well tended in between seasons and visitors. And even with the ample size of each site, you don't feel like you're in your neighbor's lap."
Road quality: The main access road stays well-maintained. According to Kennedy F., who camped at Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping: "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
Best camping seasons: Spring conditions often include mud and snow at higher elevations. Chris A. reports about Franklin Basin: "Tons of dispersed spots all up and down Franklin Basin Rd. Road is very well maintained, sites are easily accessible and close to Logan river if not on it!"
Site availability patterns: Weekends fill quickly during summer months. At Middle Fork Conservation Area, Janelle K. observed: "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!"
No developed facilities: Bring all supplies including water and waste containment. John Rushton A. notes about Dock Flat Campground: "Plenty of spots for rv/campers and tent campers. Had my own quiet spot with a great view of the stars. Enough Verizon reception to FaceTime with the family."
Insect considerations: Mosquitos become problematic in early summer near water. Maddie F. who camped at Franklin Basin warns: "I heard it's better in August, but if you camp way further down the mosquitos are absolutely miserable."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose sites further from main roads for privacy. Fale L. recommends North Fork Park: "We've camped all over in North Fork sites! Our family has our anual family reunion in Mustang Flats every summer, CW8 & CW9 are great for 5 families because they're connected by a little road."
Day trip options: Plan visits to nearby Bear Lake or Logan attractions. Jordan K. shares about Paris Springs Campground: "It was a great location, beautiful scenery, close to hikes, and not far from Bear Lake. We will definitely be coming back."
Child-friendly activities: Look for shallow river sections for safe play. Morgan L. notes about North Fork Park: "My husband and I recently took our toddler and infant here and had a blast. They found joy in simply throwing pebbles in the creek and making mud."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: The first 2-3 miles of Franklin Basin Road offer the most level sites. Steve M. advises about Dock Flat: "Not very far from Brigham City at all. Easy to find and some roads are a little rough in the campgrounds. At least 30 established campsites with fire pits and lots of shade."
Road condition awareness: RVs should exercise caution on unmaintained sections. johny R. provides specific details: "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. Beware of cows! They will be in several sections of the road but are friendly to cars and move out of the way."
Water management: Plan to arrive with full tanks and leave with waste. According to Nicholas A. about Dock Flat Campground: "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."
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