Best Dispersed Camping near Avery, ID

Dispersed camping opportunities exist throughout the St. Joe River and Coeur d'Alene River watersheds near Avery, Idaho, with several primitive sites on U.S. Forest Service and Idaho Fish and Wildlife lands. Free camping areas include Cliff Creek Campground Primitive Dispersed, Stevens Lakes Backcountry, and multiple unnamed sites along the St. Joe River Road. The North Fork Coeur d'Alene River area provides additional options for those seeking no-fee camping on public lands, with sites accessible via various forest roads and pull-offs.

Access routes to dispersed sites vary considerably in quality and difficulty. Many areas require travel on unpaved forest roads that may become challenging during wet weather or winter months. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for reaching more remote locations, particularly for sites like Stevens Lakes Backcountry which requires a hike-in approach. Most dispersed areas have no drinking water, no hookups, and limited or no toilet facilities. Fire restrictions are common during summer months, with campers reporting established fire rings at many sites. Time limits typically restrict stays to 3-14 days depending on the managing agency, with Bull Run Access specifically limited to 3 days.

The region's dispersed camping areas provide excellent access to fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The St. Joe River sites offer riverside camping with good privacy between sites. At Stevens Lakes Backcountry, campers can enjoy mountain lake settings after a moderate hike. One visitor to Cliff Creek noted its "great location near the Hiawatha trail" with "primitive off grid camping" and mentioned that "the busses picking up Hiawatha trail users go right by the campground multiple times a day in the summer." Another camper described Big Creek as having "secluded dispersed campsites" that are "definitely worth spending a few days fly fishing or hiking the area."

Best Dispersed Sites Near Avery, Idaho (26)

    2. Stevens Lakes Backcountry

    1 Review
    Mullan, ID
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 783-2363

    "By far one of my favorite Mt lake hikes! With great camping at both the lower and upper lakes, I recommend using the trails app to help navigate through the switch backs, and have lots of water!"

    3. Dispersed Site on St. Joe River Rd

    1 Review
    Avery, ID
    15 miles

    "Camping is prohibited from spring to mid July. Not the best spot for swimming due to the current in this section of the river but good enough to wade in and cool off anyway."

    4. Donkey Creek Campground

    1 Review
    Calder, ID
    13 miles
    +1 (208) 245-2531

    "This campground is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out area close to the swiftly flowing Marble Creek."

    5. Big Creek, Calder, Idaho

    1 Review
    Calder, ID
    14 miles

    "There are secluded dispersed campsites on Big Creek between the campgrounds on Big Creek RD. If you're set up for off grid its definitely worth spending a few days fly fishing or hiking the area."

    7. 2 Mile Turn Off Dispersed Camp

    4 Reviews
    De Borgia, MT
    30 miles

    "Just as described by other reviews, it’s right off the highway and right by the creek. About 50 yards away is an outhouse next to a few RV’s."

    "Cross the bridge at the exit and there is a wide turn around. I'd pull my teardrop down here, but unsure about longer trailers."

    8. North Fork Coeur D'Alene River

    4 Reviews
    Kellogg, ID
    31 miles

    "Fantastic access to the river for great fly fishing. Several spots in the trees and several in the more open areas. Vault toilet is to the right as you pull in about 1/8 mile away from pull off."

    "I met some cool Idaho locals that said they’ve been coming here since they were kids!"

    9. Rose Lake

    12 Reviews
    Cataldo, ID
    37 miles
    Website

    "Great elevated views of Rose Lake through the trees at the boat ramp. Several fishermen loading up after a day on the lake. A little noisy, but not distracting."

    "The morning revealed a beautiful lake/dock, clean pit toilet and pet friendly space. It was very simple, but perfect quick stop for us."

    10. Bull Run Access Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Medimont, ID
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 769-1414

    "Lots of spaces and places to turn around. After crossing the bike path, take the first right onto the dirt road at the sportsmans access sign (parallel to the small paved parking lot.)"

    "If you drive past the first couple grass campsites and continue on the narrow road with water on both sides, just off to the right is a single secluded campsite amongst the tree."

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Showing results 1-10 of 26 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Avery, ID

60 Reviews of 26 Avery Campgrounds



Guide to Avery

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Avery, Idaho, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of options, you can find the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Avery, Idaho

  • Make sure to pack out what you pack in, as many areas, like Donkey Creek Campground, operate on a pack-it-in, pack-it-out basis.
  • Bring plenty of water, especially when hiking to locations such as Stevens Lakes Backcountry, where drinking water is not available.
  • Familiarize yourself with the area using a trails app to navigate the terrain, particularly useful for hikes leading to scenic spots like Cliff Creek Campground.

Scenic lakes for dispersed campers

  • Enjoy the serene atmosphere at Rose Lake, where you can find multiple camping spots near the water, perfect for fishing or relaxing by the shore.
  • The picturesque views at Big Creek Campground offer a great backdrop for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the essence of Idaho's wilderness.
  • For those seeking a more secluded experience, Heller Creek Campground provides a peaceful setting away from the hustle and bustle, ideal for a quiet retreat.

Outdoor activities while free camping near Avery

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the trails around Tingley Springs on Phillip Draw, which offer access to stunning landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Fishing is a popular activity at Bull Run Access Dispersed, where you can cast your line in the nearby waters and enjoy a day of relaxation.
  • Campers looking for adventure can explore the nearby Hiawatha Trail, with convenient access from Cliff Creek Campground, making it a great base for biking or hiking excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Avery, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Avery, ID is Cliff Creek Campground Primitive Dispersed with a 3-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Avery, ID?

TheDyrt.com has all 26 dispersed camping locations near Avery, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.