Dispersed camping near Richmond, Utah offers free sites within Cache National Forest with varied terrain and seasonal accessibility. Most sites sit at elevations between 5,000-7,000 feet, where summer temperatures average 70-85°F during the day and 45-60°F at night. The camping areas experience heavy weekend traffic during summer months, especially from university students and locals seeking outdoor recreation.
What to do
Mountain biking on established trails: Green Canyon features popular biking routes throughout the canyon. A camper noted, "Plenty great dispersed sites for car camping. Tons of little spots along a gravel road...Also tons of trails and mountain bikers."
Explore hiking paths: Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping has several trails worth exploring. "There are many different places to visit throughout the area such as the 'Plane Crash' site, Beaver Creek, old logging trails, and more," explains one camper.
Creek access for fishing: Many sites along Smithfield Dispersed Campsite provide direct creek access. "It's a very pretty canyon with a creek running through it," notes a camper who found good spots for small setups.
Fall foliage viewing: During autumn, the aspens and other trees create colorful landscapes. A camper at dispersed sites near Monte Cristo shared, "It was the end of September and all the leaves were changing... Can't recommend this spot enough."
What campers like
Secluded spots away from crowds: For those willing to drive farther, solitude can be found. At Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo, a camper reported, "We could not have asked for a more perfect spot. The views were immaculate, the sites were very spread out."
Natural soundscapes: Many sites feature creek sounds that enhance the experience. A camper at Franklin Basin noted there's "a creek that flows back and forth around the area, we had that for our soundtrack as we slept."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area hosts various bird species and other wildlife. One camper at Green Canyon mentioned "birds in caves in side of valley," while exploring during winter.
Convenience for short trips: Sites close to Logan provide easy access for quick getaways. A reviewer appreciated that Green Canyon is "about 15 mins outside of Logan up a beautiful canyon" which made it convenient for weekend camping.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to some areas requires appropriate vehicles. At Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin, a camper commented, "Awesome time love the dirt road love love the trees the nature, everything about it basically the hills and country."
Early arrival recommended: Sites fill quickly, especially on weekends and during hunting season. A camper warned, "Tons of free site all up and down the main road. The only problem is it is busy if you leave on Friday plan to get there by 3 at the latest. Spots fill quick."
Fire restrictions change seasonally: Check current regulations before planning campfires. One camper noted, "We weren't able to have a fire when we stayed there" due to seasonal restrictions.
Site cleanliness concerns: Popular areas may have trash issues. A Green Canyon visitor observed, "The sites has a bit of leftover trash and the occasional shard of broken beer bottles. Nothing horrible, but certainly a place where people like to party."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites based on noise levels: Some areas are quieter than others. A camper at Left Hand Fork - Dispersed Site found more peaceful camping away from main roads and popular areas.
Weather preparation: Temperature swings can be significant. A camper at Franklin Basin advised, "We went at the beginning of June, it was a bit chilly some mornings and at night, so come prepared."
Site size considerations: Many spots are limited in capacity. According to one camper at Smithfield Dispersed Campsite, "Most of the spots are pretty small and would only work for one or two tents or maybe a couple of hammocks."
Bathroom access planning: Only some sites have toilet facilities. A camper at Green Canyon noted, "There are Vault toilets in the parking lot at the bottom, as well as at the very top where Green Canyon meets water shed Canyon."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions limit options: Many sites cannot accommodate larger rigs. A visitor at Hobbit 2 Dispersed Site found that the narrow access roads and small sites limited RV camping options.
Road clearance challenges: Some dispersed areas have rough roads. One camper warned, "This road is rough and very bumpy. Didn't feel comfortable 'taking over' a campsite with things already parked there."
Turning around difficulties: Narrow roads can trap larger vehicles. A frustrated camper reported, "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."
Consider lower elevation sites for easier access: Areas closer to main roads offer better RV access. A camper noted, "This is the big rig area. There are also a few dispersed spots down in this lower area...This area is just a basic parking lot with a bathroom."
