Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping north of Randolph provides free camping with access to numerous horse-friendly trails. The campsites accommodate tents and RVs with sufficient space for horse trailers on well-maintained roads. Dispersed camping areas extend along Franklin Basin Road with sites spread out for privacy and many positioned near Logan River. Visitors appreciate the big pull-in spots for camper rigs with horses and the easy road access, though summer weekends can become crowded with some sites appearing claimed before actual arrival.
Located about 30 miles from Randolph, the area features a network of old logging trails ideal for horseback riding. The dirt road remains 2WD-friendly for approximately 1.5 hours of driving, allowing access well into Idaho with increasingly spectacular mountain and meadow views. No horse corrals or formal equestrian facilities exist, so visitors must bring portable corrals or highlines. The nearby creek provides natural water access for horses after riding. During peak summer months, mosquitoes can be problematic in lower areas near water, and the road may develop potholes requiring caution with horse trailers. Some camping areas include natural barriers that work well for containing horses while offering direct access to miles of riding trails.
"Great area for lake access"
"If you want to camp at Bear Lake, this is a good spot. Electricity and water hookups are included at each campsite for those of you with RVs."
from $35 - $305 / night
"While there are a lot of disbursed sites along the corridor, they were all completely filled due to a bike race happening at nearby Beaver Mountain."
"Amazing location especially because it’s close to bear lake! I heard it’s better in August, but if you camp way further down the mosquitos are absolutely miserable."
"This is a small state park campground located in a neighborhood. This lake was so popular while we were there over Father's Day weekend."
"The only thing that was annoying is that they lock the front gate at 10PM so if you are out after that time, you have to park your car on the street and walk to your campsite."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $40 - $400 / night
"Before we had kids, we would bike and hike along the different trails. 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."
"Arrived around 2pm on a Friday and stayed at Cutler Flats. Didn't look at the other campgrounds so can't speak to them in particular. Drove up and down the loop and most were available at that time."
from $30 - $40 / night
"This park is a great stopover on your way through Utah or weekend visit. The lake is clean and still very natural. The swans circling the water are something to see."
"This campground is right next to the I-15, and a set of train tracks that seem to see daily use."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when available"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."
"The campground was in great shape, the drive up to our site was amazingly beautiful, and the campground hosts were very attentive and thoughtful."
"I chose the site near the Paris spring Trailhead. The trail to the spring is about 1/4 mile in and is very beautiful. There were hummingbirds everywhere! And dragon flies too!"
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $17 - $100 / night
"My family and I were driving through and needed a place to stay for the night. We camped the first night that lot camping was allowed (9/10) so it was quiet and peaceful."
LegendA nice campground. About to close for the season so I was the only one here. Its currently dry. The water was shut off and whatnot. Lots of spots. Some better than others! I bet this place would be stunning when the leaves are green and lush!
ScoutWhile there are a lot of disbursed sites along the corridor, they were all completely filled due to a bike race happening at nearby Beaver Mountain. We continued up and finally found a nice camp site just on the south side of Utah border but it turned out to be on private property. There’s a small stretch of a private property near the state line marked by a sign posted cattle grate. The property owner stopped by, he was super polite, but explained the boundaries and asked us to move along.
In many spots on the road on the way up there were wide open areas where a single camper had claimed a large area, even sites that could comfortably accommodate several rigs, so just a few things to watch out for.
TravelerEasily accessible spot off FR 006. Found shady, mostly level spot to park van right off the road. Peaceful location. Fire pit in the camp area. No amenities.
TravelerGreat area for lake access
GuideThis is a small state park campground located in a neighborhood. This lake was so popular while we were there over Father's Day weekend. As busy as it was, everyone followed the quiet hours and it was so peaceful at night. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay here and would definitely return. We were in electric and water hookup site number 3 in the middle row. The sites along the water have great views, but little shade and do not have any hookups. The sites are close together ,but angled nicely so you still have privacy. The surrounding neighborhood is lovely with a mixture of farms and new construction. Felt completely safe biking and running through the surrounding area. The park is close to the town of Logan, Utah. We loaded up our bikes and took advantage of their extensive trail system only 15 minutes from the park. The town of Logan has everything you need to restock on supplies including Costco.
TravelerBeautiful boating lake, lots of bathrooms, plug spots and none plug spots, lots of access points to the water, popular fishing destination. Cute town with nice shops and people. Pretty close to other campers, not secluded in any way, and Hyrums farm cow smell is pretty brutal when it’s hot.
ScoutSo my parents bought a new motor home and were unsure how to do anything with it. We brought them on their first trip to help them learn the ins and outs of camping. All in all great time and a fun experience for them.
ScoutThe app said that overnight camping would be allowed in the parking lot and within a third of the mile, the parking area from the second there's a sign that expressly prohibits this exact thing. Saturday of April through September 9th. This is incorrect. There's a sign that expressly prohibits this exact thing.
TravelerThe 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. I would recommend you scout ahead if you have anything bigger than a 15 footer. We only stayed for one night but would have stayed longer if we had the time.
Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping serves as a popular destination for equestrian camping near Randolph, Utah. Located in the Cache National Forest at elevations between 7,500-8,500 feet, this area experiences cool summer nights with temperatures often dropping below 50°F even in July and August. The region connects to an extensive network of trails suitable for day rides and provides natural water sources throughout the main camping corridor.
Waterfall hiking: Near North Fork County Park, campers can access short waterfall hikes directly from the camping area. "There's a hidden waterfall you can hike too, and a river runs through the park. There were hummingbirds everywhere! And dragon flies too!" notes Carrie C.
Mountain biking: Trail systems throughout the area provide extensive riding opportunities. At North Fork County Park, visitors find "excellent mountain bike trails. Can't wait to go back and ride more of them," according to Rich J., who recommends starting near the trailhead areas for the best access.
Fishing access: The Logan River running through Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping offers fishing opportunities. "Sites are easily accessible and close to Logan river if not on it! Also good hike or two on the same road," writes Chris A., highlighting the convenient water access throughout the area.
Privacy and space: The dispersed nature of sites provides separation between camping parties. At Franklin Basin, "there are nice size and spread out dispersed camping spots along the way. The views are truly amazing," reports johny R., noting that proper site selection helps maximize privacy.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting offers opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Hyrum State Park Campground, "walking around at dusk we saw deer and a large barn owl. Sounds of the crickets made for a very magical feel just after sunset," Laura K. observed during her stay.
Night skies: The minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. At Paris Springs Campground, the setting provides exceptional viewing conditions. "We loved our stay at Paris Springs. The campground was in great shape, the drive up to our site was amazingly beautiful," Jordan K. reported after visiting the area.
Seasonal road conditions: Access roads may deteriorate during peak usage periods. "The road is very well maintained, sites are easily accessible," notes Chris A. about Franklin Basin, though conditions can change seasonally with increased traffic.
Mosquito preparation: Insect activity increases near water sources, particularly in early summer. At Willard Bay State Park Campground, campers report that "with citronella candles, bug sprays and bug deterrent bracelets, the mosquitoes and other bugs were relentless" according to Rara B., highlighting the need for comprehensive insect protection.
Site claiming practices: Popular areas fill quickly on weekends with informal reservation methods. "Wasted time looking here. Tons of land, tons of campsites.. but most are 'occupied' by empty trailers with no other vehicles or people around," reports Kaden M. about Franklin Basin, suggesting weekday visits may offer better availability.
Shallow water access: Several areas provide kid-friendly water features. At Rendezvous Beach — Bear Lake State Park, "the beach is right there, the sand is nice, and one can wade out quite far in the water to lounge all day," according to Matthew H., making it suitable for families with children.
Nature exploration opportunities: Wildlife and plant observation create learning experiences. "We've never had any problems finding a spot, being comfortable and enjoying our time up there. The camp hosts have ALWAYS been friendly, helpful and professional," Dave D. shares about North Fork County Park, where natural settings encourage exploration.
Weather preparation: Temperature variations require adequate clothing and bedding. Kennedy F. advises about Franklin Basin: "We went at the beginning of June, it was a bit chilly some mornings and at night, so come prepared," noting the significant temperature drops common in mountain settings.
Site selection for large rigs: Some dispersed areas accommodate larger vehicles but require careful navigation. "Lots of spaces here. Big pull-in spots for camper rigs. And some small side pull outs for sedans," Robert S. notes about Franklin Basin, indicating suitable areas for various vehicle types.
Hookup availability: Plan for self-sufficiency at most locations. At Dock Flat Campground, Steve M. advises: "No Services whatsoever except I have T-Mobile and I have great reception with the JeXstream mobile hotspot extender. No Creeks or water but a beautiful place if you bring everything you need," emphasizing the importance of arriving fully prepared.
Road navigation challenges: Access roads may present difficulties for longer trailers. Nicholas A. suggests at Dock Flat: "Trailers should stick to the lower sections as it gets a bit difficult to navigate past the second campground," providing practical guidance for those with larger rigs considering horseback riding and equestrian camping near Randolph.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Randolph, UT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Randolph, UT is Rendezvous Beach — Bear Lake State Park with a 4-star rating from 6 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Randolph, UT?
TheDyrt.com has all 8 equestrian camping locations near Randolph, UT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
