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Dispersed Camping

Big Lost River Dispersed

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Big Lost River Dispersed is located near the Big Lost River in Idaho, surrounded by rugged terrain with open spaces and scattered trees. Temperatures can range from lows of 20°F in winter to highs of 80°F in summer. Campers can explore nearby attractions such as the Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, offering unique volcanic landscapes.

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Location

Big Lost River Dispersed is located in Idaho

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

43.93983833069714 N
113.65018308261222 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Big Lost River Dispersed needs a permit.

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General Info


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4 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 9, 2025

Free

Clean for being free. Nice to be next to the river. Seems to be a popular place. Very rustic. Pack out your own trash.

Siteone of the few with a table.
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Aug. 7, 2023

Surprisingly easy access. Clean and ADA accessible

I selected this campground after missing out on a nearby first come first serve that was fully booked. I am just thrilled with the campsites and cleanliness of the pit toilets and nearby stream and fishing.

SiteUnmarked Dispersed
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Big Lost River Dispersed by tom P., August 7, 2023
  • Review photo of Big Lost River Dispersed by tom P., August 7, 2023
  • Review photo of Big Lost River Dispersed by tom P., August 7, 2023
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Reviewed Aug. 1, 2022

Not bad off the road

Probably 15 spots. AT&T 1-2 5G. Pit toilets, 10 day max stay right on Big Lost River, fishing might be good? No garbage, water. Not bad for a 2-3 nighter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is overnight camping allowed at Big Lost River Rest Area?

Yes, overnight camping is allowed at Big Lost River Rest Area. The site has approximately 15 camping spots available for visitors. There's a 10-day maximum stay limit enforced for campers. The campground is free to use and offers a mix of sites, including some private spots for a more secluded experience. This makes it suitable for short stays of 2-3 nights or longer visits up to the maximum allowed time.

What amenities are available at Big Lost River Rest Area?

Big Lost River Rest Area offers basic amenities for a rustic camping experience. The site has pit toilets that are maintained and kept clean. There's no potable water or garbage service available, so visitors need to pack out their own trash and bring their own water. AT&T cell service is available with 1-2 bars of 5G coverage. The campground is situated right along the Big Lost River, providing water access for fishing and recreation.

Where is Big Lost River Rest Area located and how do I get there?

Big Lost River Rest Area is located along the Big Lost River in Idaho. To get there, look for a turn near a cattle gate on a gravel road. The entrance can be easy to miss, so drive carefully. The site offers incredible views after driving through much of Idaho and serves as a welcome relief point for travelers. There's a paved spot close to the entrance, with additional sites scattered throughout the area.

What activities can visitors enjoy around Big Lost River Rest Area?

The primary attraction at Big Lost River Rest Area is fishing in the adjacent river, which is reported to be good. The river provides water access for various recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy the incredible views of the surrounding Idaho landscape, making it a great spot for photography and relaxation. The area's natural setting also lends itself to wildlife watching, hiking in the vicinity, and simply enjoying the peaceful riverside environment. The private spots throughout the campground provide nice spaces for picnicking and spending time outdoors.