The landscapes around Richmond, Utah accommodate multiple camping styles across national forest lands and dispersed sites. Public lands in this area include the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, where camping options range from established sites with amenities to primitive backcountry locations. Smithfield Campground provides developed camping near Richmond, while Green Canyon and Smithfield Dispersed areas offer free primitive camping. Tony Grove Lake and Campground, situated at higher elevations, provides both tent and RV camping with more facilities. Camping types span from no-fee dispersed sites to reservation-required established campgrounds with tables, fire rings, and vault toilets.
Road conditions vary significantly between locations, with paved access to developed sites and rough dirt roads leading to dispersed areas. Summer and early fall offer the most reliable access, as many forest service roads close during winter months due to snow. Most dispersed sites operate on a first-come basis without reservations, while established campgrounds like Tony Grove may require advance booking during peak summer weekends. Water availability differs by location - Tony Grove and Red Banks campgrounds provide drinking water, while dispersed sites require campers to bring their own supplies. A camper noted, "After you've passed the Smithfield campground there are plenty of spots on both sides of the road where you can pull off and have dispersed camping. Most of the spots are pretty small and would only work for one or two tents."
The higher elevation camping areas near Richmond deliver cooler temperatures even during summer heat. Forested sites provide natural shade, especially around Tony Grove Lake, which sits at approximately 8,400 feet and remains snow-covered until late spring. Proximity to creeks and streams enhances many camping experiences, particularly at Smithfield Campground. One visitor described it as "next to a beautiful creek. Secluded. No cell service." Campers frequently mention the hiking opportunities throughout the area, with trailheads accessible from several campgrounds. The small size of Smithfield Campground limits the possibility of crowding, with a reviewer noting, "This little spot has five or six campsites that are spaced nicely and are all very clean." Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the area, though bear-safe food storage is recommended at all locations.
"Perhaps a little too close to the university in Logan Utah it was busy that Friday night. I think all the spots filled by 7pm some 50 people there that night."
"About 15 mins outside of Logan up a beautiful canyon. 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!"
$24 - $75 / night
"Next to a beautiful creek. No cell service."
"It was close to home, yet in the secluded woods."
"Amazing location especially because it’s close to bear lake! I heard it’s better in August, but if you camp way further down the mosquitos are absolutely miserable."
"Absolutely beautiful location off highway 89. A popular place especially for ohv-ers."
"Stayed here for two nights, at the end of a dead end road, close to the creek. Real easy place to be."
"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."
"Tony Grove Lake is beautiful slice of heaven, nestled in Logan Canyon, about an 1.5 hours north of Salt Lake City."
"The small lake is great for kiaks, paddle boards or row boats. There is a variety of hiking trails. One goes all around the lake. Not for large RVs."
$26 - $52 / night
"The lake is a short walk and has a nice path all the way around it with some good fishing areas and a small “beach” area. Paved roads with picnic tables and fire rings and pit bathrooms."
"The campsite has many trails going down to the lake. Fir trees are everywhere, and the campground is very clean."
$24 / night
"It has one bathroom area, and was right next to the Logan River. I only marked it down for small camping areas for tenting sites right next to River but would’ve been just fine for Campers. "
"Fairly close to the road. Could use a little more upkeep and price is a little high."
$55 - $1450 / night
"Great place to overnight while passing through northern Utah. Huge full hookup sites with concrete pads. Nice and quiet despite being near the intersection of I-15 and I-84. Would definitely return!"
"Bear lake is a must do and so much good in Utah!"
$27 - $118 / night
"We have no cell service in the campground but you can walk to the road and get service if needed. Behind the bathrooms on the South side there is a little trail with a beautiful view of the lake."
"Sunrise Campground sites are immersed in trees to give you a surrounding cozy and comfortable feeling. Back in sites include a fire ring and sturdy picnic table..."
$12 - $161 / night
"Flat, level, primitive sites, this is the perfect place to relax and get away from it all. Check them out and leave them some love."
TravelerIt’s a bit further outside of downtown, but easily walkable through the paths and KOA. It’s affordable, spacious and clean. They have a lot of spots and several not spots were being developed when we were there. It was quiet at night and a great little escape!
LegendThis was an easy and convenient place to pull over when exhausted from SLC traffic.
Full hook-ups, hot shower and no privacy between sites.
Served its purpose as a good place to rest before moving on.
ScoutWe enjoyed our experience at Lava Campground. We liked how close it was to the town of Lava Hot Springs. We also liked the playground for our kids and using the showers.
LegendIf it had been a snowy winter this sno-park might have been quite busy. A few winter sport enthusiasts came and went but we were alone overnight. Clean restrooms but pack out your trash.
The road past the park was closed to vehicles.
TravelerAn unassuming but nice place, with friendly helpful people and totally adequate facilities. We especially appreciate a place that has access to easy walking or running after a long drive day, and this place has it. I will stay again.
GuideClean campground with full hookups. Pet areas and good communication. Fulltime supervision on site.
ScoutOne of the best maintained parks I have found. Located up beautiful Cub River Canyon. Views are spectacular and a warm, friendly staff!
ScoutWas hoping to go further in to the more dispersed camping, but the road was blocked with a snow berm. Ended up being a decent spot for the night. Quiet and cold, which is what I was after. The next morning there were a lot of snowmobilers, so it did get noisier and a little crowded, but not too bad.
GuideThis was our 2nd time here. It's in the city, but you'd never know it. Nice, clean park, friendly staff. Sites are closer together than what we like but honestly wasn't bothered by anyone around us. Great central location for exploring in the area.
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.
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."
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."
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.
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."
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."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Richmond, UT?
According to TheDyrt.com, Richmond, UT offers a wide range of camping options, with 156 campgrounds and RV parks near Richmond, UT and 15 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Richmond, UT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Richmond, UT is Green Canyon Dispersed Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 15 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Richmond, UT?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 free dispersed camping spots near Richmond, UT.
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