Dispersed camping options around Richmond, Utah provide campers with alternatives to established sites in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. The area's elevation ranges from 4,500 feet in the valley to over 8,400 feet at Tony Grove Lake, creating significant temperature differences between camping locations. Most campsites offer reliable access from late spring through early fall, with higher elevations often inaccessible until June due to snowpack.
What to do
Hiking trails nearby: Green Canyon offers numerous hiking opportunities just 15 minutes outside Logan. "Tons of trails and mountain bikers. 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," notes a visitor to Green Canyon Dispersed Campground.
Mountain biking routes: The trails throughout the canyons are popular with cyclists. "Green Canyon is better known and more happily known for its trail that runs alongside the road. Local residents love this Trail for trail runs, or mountain biking," explains a reviewer who spent time at Green Canyon.
Winter recreation: For those visiting outside summer months, the area transforms into a winter recreation destination. At Tony Grove Lake, "the road is closed, and is groomed by a local group named Nordic United. They groom it for cross country skiing several times a week and after every good storm. Trail is also used during the winter for snowshoeing, as well as Fat Tire snow biking."
What campers like
Natural water features: Many campsites offer access to streams and water features. At Smithfield Campground, a reviewer appreciated the "small river to collect water from if you have a filter, a fire ring for campfires, but no tables, drinking water, or RV hookups."
Solitude in dispersed areas: Franklin Basin offers isolation for those willing to travel further. "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," reports a camper at Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote locations provide excellent night sky viewing. A visitor to Red Banks Campground noted they enjoyed "great star gazing as well at night not allot of bugs either."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Many roads close during winter. At Franklin Basin, "I went at the beginning of June, it was a bit chilly some mornings and at night, so come prepared."
Campsite availability varies: Some locations 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."
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed sites can be challenging. "This road is rough and very bumpy. Didn't feel comfortable 'taking over' a campsite with things already parked there," notes a visitor to Smithfield Dispersed Campsite.
Permit requirements: Some areas require permits. "Road to dispersed camping is closed Dec 1 - April 15. Permit fee is $10 for 3 days," reports a winter camper at Green Canyon.
Tips for camping with families
Small campgrounds for privacy: Some established sites offer a more secluded experience. "This little spot has five or six campsites that are spaced nicely and are all very clean... The small size means less chance of rowdy crowds," observes a visitor at Smithfield Campground.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with accessible recreation. At Sunrise Campground, "behind the bathrooms on the South side there is a little trail with a beautiful view of the lake. If you go exploring behind the East bathrooms you'll see a little creek."
Alternative accommodations: For families new to camping, yurts provide a good introduction. "This was the first time that we stayed in a yurt, and it is a game changer. It is honestly so nice once in a while to not have to put up camp or break camp."
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger vehicles. At Tony Grove Campground, "the road in the campground is tight on some corners for longer rigs. A lot of spots are difficult to back into with a trailer. Small trailers and tents will work best up here."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited in the area. A reviewer noted at Red Banks Campground that there was "water-hookups" but most forest service campgrounds offer no electric or sewer connections.
Seasonal pricing: Rates vary by season and amenities. "This is a $75 parking lot. Pavement, cement and no shade. No fire pits. I prefer shade (94°) and more of a camping feel. Great for Big Rigs."
Traveler
