Best Dispersed Camping near Bliss, ID

Dispersed camping near Bliss, Idaho concentrates along the Snake River corridor with several free primitive sites including Frank C Jones King Hill Area and Rickett's RV Camp in Snake River Canyons Park. These Bureau of Land Management (BLM) sites provide basic facilities with minimal amenities. Additional backcountry options exist further from town at Little Camas Reservoir and Ice Cave Boondock areas, where primitive camping is permitted on public land.

Access roads to most dispersed sites are a mix of gravel and dirt, with some areas requiring slow navigation due to washboard surfaces or moon dust conditions. Frank C Jones features a boat ramp and vault toilet but no drinking water, while Snake River Canyons Park includes designated sites with fire rings and picnic tables. Most areas permit camping for up to 10 days, though specific limits vary by location. Cell service is inconsistent, with reviewers noting spotty coverage at King Hill Area and better connectivity at Snake River Canyons. Fire restrictions commonly apply during summer months.

The Snake River provides a scenic backdrop for many camping areas, though noise from passing trains affects some riverfront sites. At Frank C Jones King Hill Area, the proximity to water attracts fishing enthusiasts and boaters. The relatively flat terrain makes these sites accessible for various vehicle types, though larger rigs may encounter challenges. A camper at King Hill noted, "There are only few spaces for tent. But I park in the dirt parking lot next to boat ramp and slept in my car." At Snake River Canyons Park, visitors appreciate the balance of seclusion and convenience. As one reviewer commented, "Very easily accessible location with a few pull through spots and back in spots. All with fire rings and a picnic table." Wildlife sightings, including owls, are relatively common, especially at riverside locations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Bliss, Idaho (16)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Bliss, ID

59 Photos of 16 Bliss Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Bliss, ID

63 Reviews of 16 Bliss Campgrounds


  • Amber R.
    Apr. 19, 2022

    Little Camas Reservoir

    A pleasant place for a stop along the way

    Perfect for an overnight stop during a long drive. The access road also serves residential property some distance away so is well maintained. The primitive camping spots are close enough to the highway to make it a quick drive but far enough away to buffer most noise from passing traffic. Even though the landscape seems sparse there was very active wildlife during our stay, with many species of birds throughout the night and a chorus of coyotes at one point. The water level was really low, which would probably inhibit launching larger water craft, but the reservoir still provided a peaceful atmosphere. There definitely isn't any nearby wood for fires so people do need to bring in their own.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 2, 2023

    Little Camas Reservoir

    Would work in a pinch

    Down a dirt road. This used to be a boat ramp, but it doesn't exist anymore. A few fire pits scattered around the hill and by the water. Vault toilet available. Great views of the mountains. No privacy other than some sage brush. No room for big rigs, 4wd not required.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 9, 2025

    Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp

    Great free BLM camp sites

    Ricketts BLM RV Camp just north of Twin Falls. This fee-free primitive BLM camp offers 2 vault toilets (in case you did not bring own) and 13 level RV parking pads, each with a picnic table and fire ring, but no electric or water hook-ups. There is also equestrian and overflow parking if needed.

    https://maps.app.goo.gl/51EUdaokGV8zyEdB9

  • Greg D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2024

    Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp

    Clean, convenient and free!

    It’s hard to believe this place is free. Nicer than some National Forest campgrounds with the same amenities. Pit toilets and that’s it. The toilets were clean and the one by our site even had a light on! It was a quiet stay and convenient to see Shoshone Falls, and resupply at Costco or Walmart just to the north in Jerome. Don’t skip the scenic overlooks at the bridge on highway 93, beautiful views, and we even watched a couple base jumpers there

  • Catherine  F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2025

    Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp

    Great area mostly on the south side

    We wanted more dispersed then rickets and found the south side of Shoshone road was great 👍 some rough roads but plenty to pull a trailer on. Must check out the canyon-- truly amazing!

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 19, 2023

    Little Camas Reservoir

    Quiet and peaceful

    This is a clearly dispersed location. There is a single pit toilet. Camped right next to the lake. Lots of bugs being close to water but seemingly few mosquitoes

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 12, 2025

    Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp

    Nice little spot

    Each space has a picnic table and fire ring, and there are drop toilets and trash bins. All the sites look pretty level. Easy to find off the highway. No trees, so little privacy.

  • cThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp

    Conveient overnight stay with minimal fuss, bathrooms and good sized spots

    Snake River Canyons Park- Rickett's RV Camp offers a peaceful and convenient location for an overnight stay. The campsites are mostly clean and equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. While the area is quite dry, it provides a safe and hassle-free experience. Nothing fancy. The Sherrif did a drive through at dusk(a feature I like) and the camp filled up before the sun had set. The availability of basic amenities such as pit toilets and horse corrals adds to the convenience of the site. If you're looking for a quick overnight stay this is a great spot that is pretty much a free campsite complete with a site host.

  • Alex R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2024

    Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp

    Lovely!

    Nice layout, large spots, friendly people, useful signage about the surrounding area, and two clean well maintained pit toilets (one even had a night light). This spot is wonderfully close to town, feels very safe and convenient. Highly recommend this spot to anyone passing through!


Guide to Bliss

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Bliss, Idaho, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of options available, campers can enjoy stunning landscapes and a sense of freedom away from crowded sites.

Dispersed campers should check out Frank C Jones King Hill Area

  • Frank C Jones King Hill Area offers a unique experience right next to the Snake River, providing beautiful sunset views and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Campers have reported enjoying the sounds of nature, including visits from owls during the night, making it a memorable stop.
  • While there are no amenities like drinking water or electric hookups, the area allows for campfires, making it perfect for a rustic camping experience.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Bliss, Idaho

  • Always come prepared, as many areas, such as Thorn Creek Reservoir Dispersed, lack basic facilities like drinking water and trash disposal.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings; some sites, like Little Camas Reservoir, can get busy on weekends, so arriving early can help secure a good spot.
  • Bring your own firewood, as many locations, including Lava Creek, do not provide firewood, but allow campfires.

Enjoy fishing and boating while free camping near Bliss

  • The Little Camas Reservoir is a great spot for fishing and offers scenic views, making it a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • If you're looking for a quiet retreat, Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp provides ample space for fishing and enjoying the river, all while being close to town.
  • For those who enjoy hiking, the area around Ice Cave Boondock offers trails that lead to beautiful views and unique geological features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Bliss dispersed camping area located?

Bliss dispersed camping refers to several undeveloped camping areas in the Bliss region of Idaho. The primary sites include Little Camas Reservoir, located off a well-maintained access road that serves residential property but provides camping spots buffered from highway noise. Another popular option is Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp just north of Twin Falls, which offers more structured dispersed camping. Both locations provide beautiful views of Idaho's natural landscapes, with Little Camas offering lakeside spots and Rickett's featuring canyon vistas.

Is a permit required for dispersed camping at Bliss?

No permits are required for dispersed camping in the Bliss area. Bruneau Canyon Overlook and other BLM-managed dispersed camping locations follow standard Bureau of Land Management regulations. These typically allow free camping for up to 14 days in a 28-day period. While permits aren't needed, campers should follow Leave No Trace principles, properly manage campfires (where allowed), and pack out all trash. During fire season, additional restrictions may apply, so it's advisable to check with the local BLM office for current regulations before your trip.

When is the best time of year to camp at Bliss?

The best time to camp in the Bliss area is spring (April-June) and fall (September-October) when temperatures are moderate. Summer months can be extremely hot in this region of Idaho, particularly at lower-elevation sites like Ice Springs. Thorn Creek Reservoir Dispersed offers higher elevation camping with cooler summer temperatures. Be aware that spring camping near reservoirs means dealing with more insects, particularly near Little Camas Reservoir. Winter camping is possible but challenging due to potential snow and freezing temperatures, especially at higher elevations. Road conditions can deteriorate quickly during wet weather.

What amenities are available at Bliss dispersed camping?

Amenities at Bliss dispersed camping areas are minimal, as is typical with dispersed sites. Little Camas Reservoir offers a single vault toilet but no other facilities. At Frank C Jones King Hill Area, you'll find primitive sites with basic fire rings. For slightly more amenities, Rickett's RV Camp provides vault toilets (reportedly clean and some even with night lights), designated parking pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. None of these locations offer water, electricity, or dump stations, so campers need to be fully self-sufficient and prepared to pack out all waste.