Best Dispersed Camping near Richmond, UT
Several dispersed camping areas exist near Richmond, Utah, primarily within the Cache National Forest. Green Canyon Dispersed Campground, Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping, and Smithfield Dispersed Campsite are the main options in this region. These primitive sites allow free camping on public land with various levels of accessibility. Most areas require permits, with some sites like Green Canyon featuring established fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets, while others like Franklin Basin offer more minimal facilities.
Access to these dispersed sites varies considerably based on location and season. Green Canyon provides relatively easy access on a gravel road that becomes rough in spots, while Franklin Basin may require vehicles with higher clearance. Many areas close during winter months, with Green Canyon's road typically closed from December 1 to April 15. The permit fee at Green Canyon is $10 for three days. Most sites lack amenities like drinking water, hookups, or trash service, though some locations have basic vault toilets. Campers must pack out all waste and follow fire regulations.
The camping experience differs across these locations. Green Canyon, being closest to Logan, experiences significant traffic and noise, especially on weekends. A review noted it's "very busy with lots of road traffic even until late" and another mentioned it's "notorious for high school gatherings." Franklin Basin offers more solitude, especially if driving deeper into the area. According to one camper, "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." Smithfield Canyon provides creek-side camping with "plenty of spots on both sides of the road," though most are small and accommodate only "one or two tents or maybe a couple of hammocks."
