Dispersed camping options near Smithfield, Utah provide overnight stays in the Cache National Forest. Located in northern Utah's Bear River Mountains at elevations ranging from 4,600 to 9,000 feet, the area experiences warm summer days with cool nights and cold winters with significant snowfall. Most primitive camping near Smithfield requires visitors to bring their own water and pack out all trash, as facilities are limited.
What to do
Mountain biking trail access: At Green Canyon Dispersed Campground, campers can access popular trails directly from camp. "Stopped in Logan on our way through Utah. Logan has STUNNING and charming views of mountains and an vast valley. Green Canyon was recommended by a friend. Plenty great dispersed sites for car camping," notes a reviewer who appreciated the recreational options.
Cross-country skiing: Winter visitors can enjoy groomed trails in Green Canyon when the road closes from December through mid-April. "Road to dispersed camping is closed Dec 1 - April 15. Permit fee is $10 for 3 days. We had a quiet and enjoyable overnight visit but road was quite icy," reports one winter camper.
Hiking to plane crash site: The Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping area offers access to unique hiking destinations. "I have grown up camping in the Franklin Basin area. It is the perfect location for anyone looking for places to hike or ride. There are many different places to visit throughout the area such as the 'Plane Crash' site, Beaver Creek, old logging trails, and more."
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Many Smithfield Dispersed Campsite users appreciate the natural water features. "It's a very pretty canyon with a creek running through it. Would recommend," shares a camper who found the creek enhanced their experience.
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevations provide relief from summer heat. "I first visited this area in the spring, and have since been there around 4-5 times. It's very beautiful with lots of greenery and a river through the whole canyon," notes a Smithfield camper who adds that "in the spring the river is loud because it is more rushing."
Scenic driving routes: The Franklin Basin Road offers extensive driving options. "2wd friendly road for MILES. You can drive well into Idaho. You can drive for about 1.5 hours up in here and see amazing river meadow mountain views. The views are truly amazing," explains a camper who explored beyond the immediate camping area.
What you should know
Weekend crowding: Free dispersed camping around Smithfield fills quickly, especially in summer. "Camped with friends we had cell service via t-mobile, att&t, and visible with varying strengths. No cost, first come first serve. Bathroom is about a mile from the coordinates. Popular trail with bikers. Lots of traffic even late at night," reports one Green Canyon camper.
Narrow road access: Some camping areas have limited access. "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," cautions a visitor to Hobbit 2 Dispersed Site.
Variable cell service: Connectivity varies widely between sites. "NO cell phone signal at all. This area is not scenic like the upper section but is for fast easy access. The road up is 2wd safe so if you want to go higher you can," notes a Franklin Basin Road camper.
Tips for camping with families
Find quieter locations: To avoid party spots and late-night noise, drive further from town. "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," shares a Franklin Basin camper.
Pack for temperature swings: Mountain camping means preparing for cold nights. "We went at the beginning of June, it was a bit chilly some mornings and at night, so come prepared," advises a family who camped in Franklin Basin.
Consider wildlife areas: Be aware of land designations when searching for primitive camping near Smithfield. "From googling, it looks like you used to be allowed to camp anywhere along La Plata road on the way up to Porcupine Reservoir, but they stopped allowing people to camp 2 years ago because it was getting trashed. It's all a Wildlife Management Area now," warns a visitor to East Fork Little Bear River.
Tips from RVers
RV site limitations: Larger rigs should carefully select camping areas. "Didn't stay, it's right next to the road maybe for a camper van not for a truck and 30' camper," warns a reviewer of Hobbit 2 Dispersed Site.
Best big rig options: Some areas accommodate larger vehicles better than others. "This is just the lower section! Pull in off the highway you will see a large gravel loop to your left. With bathrooms. This is the big rig area," explains a camper at Franklin Basin Road.
Road condition awareness: Access roads vary in quality. "The road is dirt and bumpy so be prepared for that but I've never had a problem finding a spot," shares a Smithfield camper who has visited multiple times.
