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Camping

Dispersed Camping

Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed

Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed, near Boise, Idaho, is a fantastic spot for those who crave a bit of adventure and a connection with nature. This area offers a unique camping experience with its beautiful lake access and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like swimming and biking along the shore.

The location features a mix of campsites, some more private than others, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Visitors have noted that while the road to get there can be a bit rough, the stunning views and serene environment make it worth the trip. As one camper put it, “If you want lake access, this place is magical.”

While amenities are limited—there's no drinking water or electric hookups—campers appreciate the freedom to enjoy campfires and the chance to bring their pets along. The area can get busy during the summer, so be prepared for a lively atmosphere, especially if you’re near the beach. However, if you venture a bit further, you might find quieter spots to set up camp.

For those who enjoy a bit of exploration, the surrounding landscape is perfect for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of Idaho. Just remember to pack out what you pack in, as keeping the area clean is essential for everyone’s enjoyment. Whether you're looking for a quick day trip or a longer stay, Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed has a lot to offer for those willing to embrace the great outdoors.

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Location

Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed is located in Idaho

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

43.61501137 N
115.83121536 W

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Access

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

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Available
  • Verizon
    Good
  • AT&T
    Available
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites
  • Big Rig Friendly

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 Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed needs a permit.

Contact

General Info

Drive Time


Reviews

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17 Reviews

Reviewed Oct. 12, 2024

So pretty

Loved this spot! Parked our tow behind camper right on the beach. It is very muddy so don’t get too close to the shore, we had to help two vehicles get out of the mud. Also very buggy which is why is lost a star

Month of VisitOctober
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Reviewed Aug. 24, 2024

Chill

Nice lil spot to relax . Really rough road is the only bad part

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Bradley B., August 24, 2024
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Bradley B., August 24, 2024
Reviewed Jun. 2, 2024

If you want lake access this place is magical

There are many group sites and single sites. Many sites own a corner turn. Also your entire campsite will be visible to every car passing. There are other sites on the other side of the road that are more private. Be wary the road is very dangerous getting in. Take it slow.

Some people park their trailers at lake front but beware of the dune sand , you might get stuck.

I love being able to jump into the lake and ride my bike along the lake.

T

Sitedispersed
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Conner , June 2, 2024
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Conner , June 2, 2024
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Conner , June 2, 2024
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Jul. 14, 2023

Rough road but beautiful location

Entering the park is beautiful! There’s a paved road with campsites you need a reservation for. Where the coordinates are on this map is about 30 minutes down a gravel road that looks ok, but is very rutted. I drive a cargo van and it shook everything to the point where I didn’t want to do 30 minutes of it. There are signs that say “no roadside camping next 7 miles”, but after mile marker 7, you’ll notice fire rings off the sides of the roads on both sides, including lake front. So I just want to make sure y’all know that you don’t actually have to drive all the way down to the dispersed spots to find camping. Other than that, it’s a gorgeous area. No Verizon service for me.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Tee C., July 14, 2023
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Tee C., July 14, 2023
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Reviewed Jul. 22, 2021

Quiet and free, Dispersed

We drove way past Lucky Peak Res until we saw trees. There are 2 pull offs here with lots of spots to camp. There are lots of firepits around the area and water access. Cool spot.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Caley M., July 22, 2021
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Caley M., July 22, 2021
Reviewed Feb. 18, 2021

Beautiful area, lousy road

The road is severely pot-holed. with many lengths being 4-ish MPH if you are towing a trailer. This road is mainly good for razors and toy haulers, not RVs.  Many spots are 1 lane only. There are also washouts intruding into the roadway making it a little tight to get by for a pickup truck sized vehicle

Month of VisitJanuary
Reviewed Oct. 12, 2020

Arrowrock off season

Super great spot that is close to town - pro's and con's are already covered and i agree - especially packing out more than you pack in as trash spoils the appeal.  Driving a large bed camper isn't so bad but is slower for sure and the narrow spots can be sketchy with multi-vehicle with trailers meeting there.  I like the shoulder seasons best - wish i had a boat to add additional fun.  Your results might vary but I've had nothing but fun in the area.

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by John T., October 12, 2020
Reviewed Jun. 15, 2020

Fun for the day!

This was a super fun spot to go play in the water for the day. Only thing I would change is the fact that there is no shade. The weather wasn’t great so while camping at night, it was crazy windy which was rough haha. Also, there were people blasting loud music until super late, but otherwise this is a nice spot.

  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by April S., June 15, 2020
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by April S., June 15, 2020
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by April S., June 15, 2020
  • (4) View All
Reviewed May. 1, 2020

RAV4 Camping

Awesome place! Like some of the others said, drive in could be a bit sketchy it you’re towing or have a large vehicle - but we passed plenty of boats/RV’s, just have to go slow. There’s multiple spaces and if you’re not too specific about being near the water, you can have some decent privacy.

  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Brianna S., May 1, 2020
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Brianna S., May 1, 2020
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Brianna S., May 1, 2020
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Feb. 12, 2020

Irish Point

We camped at Irish Point at Arrowhead's designated dispersed camping area. The road around the reservoir is pretty tight, though that doesn't discourage long trailers and toy haulers. We're pretty self-contained so didn't miss any usual camp ground amenities. Our neighbors were sparse and quiet and we enjoyed the peace of this area.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Eric Y., February 12, 2020
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Eric Y., February 12, 2020
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Eric Y., February 12, 2020
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Jun. 5, 2019

Private

Me and boyfriend enjoy going here in the fall and spring to get away from the city for a day or two. There is hiking right across the street. Mt Heinen which is a very strenous hike. Its over 9 miles(up and back) and over a 3,000 ft gain so be prepared if you try to tackle this summit. Anyways, the campground has some fire pits but no picnic tables. There are a few trees for shade. One part of this campground that confuses me is that there use to be a small outhouse in summer of 2018 but when I came in 2019 in march and April there was not one? When we come in the fall and spring theres no one other than us there. In the summer it does get quite a few people there. Also it gets super hot in the summertime so be sure to bring plenty of water. Good thing is you can take a dip in the cold reservoir to cool off. There's no trash services so pack it in and pack it out. A lot of people come here to party and leave trash around so i make it a point to pick it up. Please don't be those people to ruin a beautiful free spot. 💚

Reviewed Aug. 6, 2018

Good place to swim and boat

So hot and no shade. If it were not close to the water you may not have a way to beat the heat. It was beyond crowded and hard to find a secluded spot to camp away from others. Only pro is its close to town and you can swim, fish, and boat.

Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Jul. 10, 2018

Beach camping at Arrowrock

Arrowrock is a great and easy weekend get away. It’s only about 1.5 hours from Boise. It can get very crowded on holidays and weekends though so try to arrive early. Most people just camp out on the beach wherever you can find space. If you have a boat you can put it in the water right off the beach and camp next to it.

  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Eden T., July 10, 2018
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Eden T., July 10, 2018
Reviewed May. 9, 2017

Classic Idaho

Honestly one of the best places close to the city. Far enough away that you still get out of service, a good view of the stars, a swim, and some magnificent overall views. Nothing like waking up here. 40 minutes from downtown Boise

  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Simran D., May 9, 2017
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Simran D., May 9, 2017
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Reviewed Aug. 30, 2016

Uncrowded desert camping along the water

Arrowrock Reservoir is a decent place to camp. The drive there is long and slow-going along a washboard dirt road, but the best part is that this spot is usually uncrowded, which is nice when you are looking for some quiet solitude. It's a steep hike down to the water in the reservoir, but not too bad. The camp sites are nice and have some pine trees, but other than that, the landscape is very desert-y.

  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Katie F., August 30, 2016
  • Review photo of Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed by Katie F., August 30, 2016

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are fires allowed at Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.