Within Boise National Forest, Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed offers free camping along the shores of a mountain reservoir, accessible via a challenging gravel road that demands careful navigation. The washboard surface and narrow sections require slow speeds, but campers who make the journey find multiple pull-offs with established fire rings and direct water access.
The area splits into distinct zones, with lakefront sites offering immediate reservoir access but potentially softer sand that can trap vehicles. Sites across the road provide more privacy from passing traffic, while corner spots accommodate larger groups. Most camping areas lack shade trees, making the summer heat intense enough that many visitors rely on the cold reservoir water for cooling off. Laura C. notes campers can "take a dip in the cold reservoir to cool off" during hot weather.
Water activities dominate the recreation here, with swimming, fishing, and boating drawing most visitors. The steep shoreline requires a short but manageable hike down to reach the water. Across the road, Mount Heinen trailhead offers a strenuous 9-mile round-trip hike with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain. Cell service remains unreliable throughout the area, providing genuine disconnection from urban life.
Seasonal patterns affect both crowds and conditions significantly. Spring and fall see lighter use, while summer weekends can become quite busy with groups and parties. The area operates under pack-in, pack-out principles, though some visitors leave trash behind. Fire pits exist throughout the camping zones, but picnic tables are not provided.
Plan for the 30-minute drive from the main paved road, and consider arriving early during peak season to secure preferred spots near the water.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsArrowrock Reservoir Dispersed is located in Idaho near Idaho City
Coordinates
43.61501137 N
115.83121536 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- 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.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 19 min from Boise, ID
- 3 hrs 53 min from Twin Falls, ID
- 5 hrs 12 min from Pocatello, ID
- 5 hrs 46 min from Idaho Falls, ID


































