Primitive camping near Bonners Ferry, Idaho offers outdoor enthusiasts rugged wilderness experiences within the Kaniksu National Forest. Elevations range from 1,800 to 7,700 feet throughout this region, creating diverse ecosystems from dense cedar forests to alpine meadows. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F, with nights dropping considerably cooler even during warm months.
What to do
Fishing access points: Clark Fork Drift Yard provides convenient water access with a boat launch and dock for anglers. One visitor noted, "Met some really nice folks at the boat launch. Quiet after the boats get off the lake. They start showing up early for fishing but we don't mind that."
Huckleberry picking: Seasonal huckleberry picking enhances the Beehive Lake Dispersed camping experience. A camper observed, "If you visit during the right season, you'll find huckleberries everywhere, which is a sweet bonus after the tough hike in."
Wildlife viewing: Many backcountry campsites provide opportunities to observe native wildlife. At Cooks Lake, one camper reported, "Birds everywhere, woodpeckers in the birch trees and killdeer darting down to the water. Chipmunks and rabbits. Tadpoles and turtles and little water snakes."
What campers like
Natural water features: The primitive camping areas around Bonners Ferry frequently feature rivers or lakes. At Sullivan Creek, a camper shared, "The site is near the river (multiple paths for easy access), has a bear box, and a fire ring."
Quiet environments: Remote dispersed sites offer solitude away from crowds. At Pack River Dispersed Site, a visitor remarked, "There are several dispersed sites up here along Pack River. Good for horses, camping and solitude."
Swimming opportunities: When temperatures rise, several sites provide natural swimming areas. One Cooks Lake camper stated, "The water was warm and we swam all day. Bats at night, and the stars!!"
What you should know
Road conditions: Many primitive sites require navigating rough terrain. A Pack River camper warned, "Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites."
Trail difficulty: Some sites require significant hiking effort. A Beehives Lakes visitor shared, "Awesome single site adjacent to the Beehive Lakes trailhead parking lot."
Wildlife precautions: Bears frequent the area, requiring proper food storage. A Cooks Lake camper advised, "It is bear county so be sure to bring bear proof containers although it was so hot when we went that the wildlife was hiding out."
Toilet facilities: Most dispersed sites lack facilities, while others have basic options. At Sullivan Creek, a visitor noted, "At the site there was a bear box and a fire ring with a moveable grill cover. Some of the sites do have bathrooms. However, we didn't have one so make sure to bring the appropriate toilet supplies."
Tips for camping with families
Beach areas: Some sites feature kid-friendly water access. At Clark Fork River Driftyard, while basic with "not much to look at," it offers water access for families with boats.
Space between sites: Look for areas with adequate separation for noise control. At Cooks Lake, a camper observed, "There were 4-5 camp sites at the main campground, well-separated and each with a fire pit."
Animal encounters: Wildlife sightings can provide educational opportunities. One camper at Sullivan Creek shared their experience: "Did have a late night bear visitor but was camping in my van so not too concerning."
Seasonal considerations: Water levels vary dramatically by season. A Cooks Lake visitor cautioned, "Decided to drive down to the water (that was hardly there) and found myself barely on the edge of lake bottom mud. Didn't get out till the next morning."
Tips from RVers
Limited trailer access: Most primitive sites accommodate only smaller rigs. At Sheldon Mountain Trailhead Camp, a visitor noted, "It's still ok to stay here, but not many spots left."
Campsite selection: For RVs, look for established spots with adequate turning room. One Cooks Lake camper advised, "At least 2 of them are good for me trailer although I wouldn't try if you're not experienced with towing."
Alternative parking: Some areas restrict vehicle placement but still permit camping. At Sheldon Mountain, a camper reported, "Officer came by to say these roads aren't supposed to be here (and many were already blocked off) but you can still park in any of the sandy/dirt road but can't pull off anywhere."
Cell service: Connectivity varies widely across sites. One camper at Sheldon Mountain noted, "Convenient dirt spot with a few places," adding that it offers "great signal" for those needing to stay connected.
