Horse campgrounds near Bellevue, Idaho offer primitive camping with varying terrain across multiple national forest areas. The region sits at elevations between 5,500-7,000 feet with summer temperatures ranging from 45-85°F. Fire restrictions typically run from July through September, with most equestrian-friendly sites open from May through October depending on snowmelt conditions.
What to do
Trail riding at Pettit Lake: Access multiple trail systems including the popular Alice Lake trail system with over 18 miles of interconnected trails. "All the other lakes we visited were on Horseback, they were all day long rides. I could not imagine making those trips in ONE day on foot," notes a camper at Decker Flats Dispersed.
Fish mountain streams: The creeks and lakes around equestrian camping areas provide fishing opportunities without leaving your campsite. At Lake Creek Rd Dispersed, one visitor mentioned "If you drive to the end (go right when the road Y's) there's a crystal clear pond that feeds the creek. It has trout visible, several ducks."
Mountain biking with horses: Many trails permit both horses and mountain bikes, allowing mixed-use recreation. Near Murdock Creek, "Close to hiking, fishing and mountain biking. Campsites have a picnic table, fire ring with grill," reports a camper.
What campers like
Open spaces for portable corrals: Most equestrian campers appreciate the room to set up containment systems. At Murdock Creek Dispersed, "The sites are generously spaced with picnic table and fire ring. There is a camp host and firewood is available at their site."
Stream access for horses: Many sites feature creek access for watering horses. One camper at Lake Creek Rd noted, "Each site is a good distance apart, we never heard our neighbors. The creek is perfect for dogs and kids to wade in."
Overnight options near trailheads: Staging areas near popular trail systems work well for equestrian camping. At Pettit Lake Campground, "This was a perfect place to stay before going on our backpacking trip... The sites were spacious."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly by location and carrier. At Lake Creek Rd, a visitor reported "Good ATT and Verizon cell reception" but many forest areas have limited connectivity.
Seasonal timing considerations: Snow can impact access through June in higher elevations. A camper at Alice Lake Primitive Campsite noted they experienced "great thunderstorm in September. The mist on the lake in the morning dances like ghosts on a glass surface."
Trailering logistics: Horse trailer parking requires planning at most sites. At Decker Flats, "Primitive campsites along the Salmon River... Beautiful views, close to Stanley for essentials."
Tips for camping with families
Shallow water access: Several sites offer kid-friendly stream areas. At Lake Creek Rd, a camper mentioned "The creek is perfect for dogs and kids to wade in. No bugs, clean, quiet and level for the camper."
Base camp strategies: Setting up a main camp with day rides works well with children. "This made for a great spot to camp while visiting and fly fishing the area! 4th of July is a great time to be in the area," notes a visitor to Lake Creek Rd.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening animal sightings are common. At Mackay Reservoir Access Area, "This BLM campground has 26 paved sites with water and electric and trash bins throughout, dump site up the hill."
Tips from RVers
Generator considerations: Most dispersed sites have no restrictions but respect quiet hours. Lake Creek Rd campers report "We were only supposed to stay here one night in our Class C but we stayed the full 3 days because it was just so beautiful!"
Water sources: Plan for limited or no water facilities. A visitor at Murdock Creek noted "There are 11 spots each with a picnic table, partial shade, and fire ring. There are two pit toilets and drinking water that is ice cold coming out of the tap."
Leveling requirements: Many sites require additional equipment for trailers. "We tow a Nissan Altima and it had no problems driving the unpaved road down to the first pond," reported a Lake Creek Rd visitor with their Class C.
