The Sawtooth National Forest region surrounding Bellevue, Idaho offers primitive tent camping options within a high desert environment at elevations ranging from 4,500 to 8,000 feet. Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, with summer days reaching 90°F while dropping to 40°F overnight. Campgrounds in this area typically operate from late May through mid-October, with accessibility dependent on seasonal weather conditions.
What to do
**Fishing access: Little Wood River campground provides direct fishing opportunities in an accessible location. According to Ryan V., there is "easy fishing access and remote camping," making it convenient for anglers while still maintaining a primitive camping experience.
**Wildlife viewing: Fish Creek Reservoir attracts diverse bird species throughout the camping season. Allison W. notes, "We saw bald eagles among other cool birds." The reservoir's water levels fluctuate seasonally, so checking with BLM beforehand regarding water conditions is advisable.
**Hiking trails: Multiple camping areas offer trail access directly from campsites. At Uncle Johns Gulch on Corral Creek Road, one camper observed there's "hiking/mtb trail next to campsites," making it convenient for outdoor enthusiasts to explore without driving to trailheads.
What campers like
**Privacy between sites: Little Wood River campground features a thoughtful layout that prevents overcrowding. Sam C. explains that "camp spots are spaced out nicely so that people are not stacked right on top of each other," creating a more peaceful camping environment.
**Natural setting: Fish Creek Reservoir provides a quintessential Idaho landscape backdrop. As Allison W. describes, the area is "right up against those beautiful rolling hills that are one of my favorite backdrops in this geologically diverse state."
**Evening climate: Despite potentially hot and windy days, nights in the Bellevue area provide relief from daytime heat. One camper at Fish Creek Reservoir noted that "everything improves in the evening (and particularly once the mosquitoes go away)," highlighting the pleasant temperature shifts that occur after sunset.
What you should know
**Water availability: Most tent campsites near Bellevue, Idaho have limited or no drinking water facilities. At Little Wood River, Sam C. advises, "We will be returning but next time we will be bringing our own water supply. The portable water on site has a yellow tint to it even after letting it run for a min or so."
**Cell service limitations: Communication options are restricted at most camping locations. According to Allison W. at Fish Creek Reservoir, there is "no cell service whatsoever, so be aware of that," requiring visitors to plan accordingly for emergency communication needs.
**Weather variability: Preparation for rapid temperature changes is essential, especially at higher elevations. At Hyndman Campground, Mary D. recommends visitors "prepare for some ice in the evening and light fog" when camping during fall months.
Tips for camping with families
**Green spaces: Some campgrounds offer grassy areas ideal for children. At Little Wood River, Charli H. mentions "green grass for day use and tent camping," which provides comfortable play spaces compared to the rocky or dusty terrain found at other sites.
**Private water access: Families can benefit from dedicated water features at select locations. Little Wood River has a "private dock," according to Charli H., offering safer water access than open shorelines at reservoir campgrounds.
**Accessibility considerations: Little Wood River campground combines primitive camping with relatively easy access. Ryan V. describes the experience as "very primitive" but notes the campground is "well cared for, easy access," making it suitable for families who want a wilderness experience without difficult approach roads.
Tips from RVers
**Seasonal road conditions: Access roads to dispersed camping areas near Bellevue can deteriorate during spring runoff or after summer storms. Regarding Fish Creek Reservoir, Allison W. reports the "road into the campground was totally fine and passable," but conditions vary seasonally.
**Temperature management: The significant day-to-night temperature fluctuations in this region affect RV camping comfort. At higher elevation sites like Hyndman Campground, evening temperatures can drop substantially, requiring heating systems even during summer months.
