Smithfield Canyon provides secluded tent camping opportunities at elevations between 5,900-7,200 feet in the Bear River Range. The canyon has several small tributary creeks that flow into the main stream, creating multiple water access points beyond the main creek. The road continues approximately 2.5 miles past the established campground, narrowing significantly as it climbs higher into the mountains.
What to do
Hiking to Minnetonka Cave: Located near North Fork Campground - St. Charles Canyon, this limestone cave offers guided tours from June through Labor Day. "This beautiful campground lies close to the end of St Charles Canyon near the Minnetonka Cave," notes Alan B., who found the tent sites had "ample room along with metal fire rings and picnic tables."
Beach activities at Bear Lake: The shallow shoreline at Bear Lake State Park Campground makes it perfect for families with young children. "The beach has fine sand and the water depth is super gradual - it'll take 50-60 yards to get waist deep. Crystal clear water," writes Heather C., who calls it the "Caribbean of the Rockies."
Group camping gatherings: Dry Canyon offers spacious sites designed for larger groups camping near Richmond. "This place had plenty of place for activities and many picnic tables close to a large cement fire place. There were also plenty types of sheep nearby!" mentions Alan B., though he cautions there's no water available at the site.
What campers like
Remote forest locations: The tent camping around Richmond, Utah extends into Cache National Forest where campers enjoy extensive privacy. "A great and spacious area worth the trip for sure!" writes Becky J. about Cache National Forest Bridger Campground, adding it's "not too crowded" with "lots of hiking spots!"
Creek-side camping spots: Many primitive sites throughout Green Canyon and Smithfield Canyon offer direct water access. Peter L. stayed at Smithfield Dispersed Campsite for "two nights, at the end of a dead end road, close to the creek" and found it a "real easy place to be."
Secluded backcountry options: For tent campers willing to hike in, there are numerous walk-in sites offering greater privacy. Steven E. describes the Green Canyon Yurt area: "The trail is approximately 3.8 miles long with a steady incline most of the way. There are a few spots with decent little Hills."
What you should know
Road conditions and vehicle limitations: Many dispersed camping roads become progressively narrower and rougher. One camper at Smithfield Dispersed noted, "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."
Water availability: Most primitive tent sites near Richmond require bringing all water needed. At Dry Canyon Campground, a camper specifically noted "there's no water there" as the "only downside" to an otherwise excellent group site.
Site sizes are limited: Most dispersed sites accommodate only small camping setups. According to one visitor, "The only spaces large enough for my 23 ft RV were occupied, and all of the car-sized spots were also taken."
Tips for camping with families
Gradual shorelines for kids: Bear Lake State Park offers exceptionally child-friendly swimming conditions. Danielle T. writes, "The water is perfect and so blue. Really earns the title of the Caribbean of the Rockies. Had my own trail straight to the water facing the sunset."
Consider developed campgrounds: While primitive tent camping dominates the Richmond area, families might prefer sites with basic amenities. "The RV spots seemed kind of close but the tent sites had ample room" at North Fork Campground, which features vault toilets accessible to both camping areas.
Pack for temperature swings: The higher elevation camping areas experience significant day-to-night temperature variations, even in summer. Sites above 6,000 feet can drop below 40°F overnight even when daytime temperatures reach 80°F.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations are strict: Most dispersed areas around Richmond aren't suitable for larger RVs. Sarah C. had difficulty with her "23 ft RV" at Smithfield Dispersed Camping, finding "the only spaces large enough... were occupied."
Cottonwood Campground offers full hookups: For RVers seeking developed sites near Richmond, this is one of few options with complete services. Danielle and Kamal L. noted, "It's a beautiful spot, with full hook ups and lovely campgrounds. The beach is spectacular and lots of other things to do around the lake."
Consider turning around points: Several canyon roads near Richmond become progressively narrower without adequate turning areas. RVers should scout ahead or research thoroughly before venturing up canyon roads with larger vehicles.
