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Best Dispersed Camping near Burley, ID

91 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Burley, Idaho centers primarily around Snake River areas and nearby BLM lands. The region includes several free primitive camping zones including Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed, Snake River Vista Recreation Site, and Lower Goose Creek Reservoir. These sites provide access to backcountry camping experiences in the Snake River canyon system and surrounding public lands. Most locations permit tent and RV camping with varying levels of accessibility and minimal facilities.

Roads leading to dispersed camping areas typically involve unpaved, sometimes challenging terrain. The route to Cauldron Linn features a steep descent into the canyon with sections requiring high-clearance vehicles, particularly for accessing lower sites near the river. Many campers with standard vehicles opt to stay at upper sites rather than navigate the more technical lower sections. Access to sites like Snake River Vista includes boat-in options alongside drive-in camping. These areas generally lack amenities like running water, established restrooms, or designated fire rings, though some sites contain informal fire pits. Campers should bring all necessary supplies including water.

The Snake River corridor provides distinctive camping experiences with opportunities for fishing, swimming, and exploring volcanic rock formations. Visitors to Cauldron Linn can explore waterfalls and canyon views while campers at sites near City of Rocks enjoy unique geological features. Reviews indicate variable conditions throughout the year. "The dirt road getting down to the river wasn't bad, but larger vehicles might have a little trouble," noted one camper about Cauldron Linn. Another visitor mentioned, "Beautiful and peaceful situated inside snake river gorge with cool water jumping spots." Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting both accessibility and recreational opportunities. Summer visitors should prepare for insects, particularly flies, which several campers noted as significant during warmer months.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Burley, Idaho (11)

    1. Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed

    36 Reviews
    Murtaugh, ID
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 732-7200

    "Tent or car camp but not accessible with trailers due to sketchy narrow road down to the canyon."

    "On the loop there’s half a dozen spots (no established fire rings, probably best for car camping) and I saw some people camped on the beach but I also saw early morning fishermen that would probably be"

    2. McClendon Spring Campground

    12 Reviews
    Malta, ID
    24 miles
    +1 (208) 677-6600

    "Well maintained dirt road and toilet! Great hanging with all the cows. Amazing views! Don’t use Apple Maps. Google will get you there on the easiest road."

    "What a great find during our travels through Southern Idaho. Situated by a pond with lots of birds made our stay very peaceful."

    3. Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp

    25 Reviews
    Twin Falls, ID
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 293-2426

    "Ricketts BLM RV Camp just north of Twin Falls."

    "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!"

    4. Flat Canyon Dispersed Campground - Sawtooth National Forest

    2 Reviews
    Oakley, ID
    20 miles

    "We ended up finding this  spot to when we were looking at camping near Independence Lakes. It is a dispersed camping. The site was big enough for 3-4 trailers and had a picnic table and a fire ring."

    "Really long gravel from highway to site. So far off the highway that it is complete quiet and serenity. Had firewood there and a fire ring to build a fire. Also a picnic table. Beautiful views."

    5. Lower Goose Creek (Oakley) Reservoir

    2 Reviews
    Oakley, ID
    25 miles
    Website

    6. City of Rocks Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Almo, ID
    31 miles

    "Basic BLM land, dispersed camping about 2mi outside the City of Rocks on the Bread Loaves side, perfect for rock climbers."

    "Easy access on a gravel road, open field with 5 stone firepits. Relatively hard to find a level spot, but not terrible."

    7. City of Rocks

    4 Reviews
    Almo, ID
    34 miles
    Website

    $14 / night

    "The campsite according to the map is an entirely different campsite; so ignore all the information, pictures and reviews.

    These are all FREE campsites."

    "There are pit toilets but no other amenities, not even trash, so please take your trash out with you. 

    Camp sites are scattered all along the main road, and broken up into area numbers."

    8. Snake River Vista Recreation Site

    10 Reviews
    American Falls, ID
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 677-6600

    "Great location just a few minutes off the highway with multiple sites."

    "You are in the High Desert of Idaho so this site is amongst sagebrush but has good shade trees also."

    9. Wahlstrom Hollow (Dispersed)

    1 Review
    Murtaugh, ID
    30 miles

    10. Lower Goose Lake Camp

    Be the first to review!
    Oakley, ID
    25 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Burley, ID

91 Photos of 11 Burley Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Burley, ID

91 Reviews of 11 Burley Campgrounds

  • Alan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2019

    Wahlstrom Hollow (Dispersed)

    More Shady Camping Right by the Namesake Trailhead

    This was a really really small camping area that's located along the creek road going through the south hills of Idaho.  There are absolutely no amenities here however so take care of business at one of the more developed campgrounds along the road!  It had wonderful shade everywhere but there wasn't any flat ground to be able to lay out a tent.  There were also only 2 maybe 3 campgrounds if you squeezed it in and it required a high clearance vehicle to get to 2 of them.  Good thing is if you get these sites you will have no one around you and personal access to a great hiking trail and in the winter snowshoeing back country skiing trail!

  • Lauren C.
    Jul. 24, 2022

    McClendon Spring Campground

    What Oasis? Don't waste your time!

    HUGE disappointment. We drive 3 miles with our TT on a long steep dirt road, to find an overgrown site with no "spring". The trees and grass have taken over and the spring was dry. You could see exposed pipes, maybe the re-route that water in the summer? There are two sites (supposedly there are 5), one of which is completely exposed to the sun, the other is located close to the "spring" within a mangled mess of weeds and overgrown trees. With the hot temperatures and high winds, we didn't want to risk it. If you have travel trailer, 4x4 is recommended as the road is rough and steep in places. The turn off the highway is VERY tight, watch out of the cattle guard if you have low clearance.

  • Michael The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2024

    Snake River Vista Recreation Site

    Great Spot!

    Great location just a few minutes off the highway with multiple sites. Offers great views of the river and several prebuilt fire rings around the area as well. 4 x 4 recommended to get down to some of the lower spots, but there’s sites up top as well that would be suitable for 2-Wheel drive vehicles. Bring bug spray if you visit in the hotter months

  • M
    May. 29, 2023

    Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed

    Perfect location along the river

    Wasn’t sure what to expect but wow this area didn’t disappoint! Camped with our 3 kids for 2 nights along the river. Beautiful views, bring your fishing poles and kayaks! Tent or car camp but not accessible with trailers due to sketchy narrow road down to the canyon.

  • Roean A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 28, 2022

    Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed

    Simple but nice views

    Right on the Snake River. On the loop there’s half a dozen spots (no established fire rings, probably best for car camping) and I saw some people camped on the beach but I also saw early morning fishermen that would probably be angry if the beach was covered in campers, so just respect the multiple uses. Bring bug spray! Had verizon service.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 29, 2023

    Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed

    The views are what make the site

    Fantastic views of the canyon, both above and from within. Steep dirt road down. Several spots along the dirt path on the way down to the river bed of varying degrees of difficulty. No amenities save for a rock fire pit or two. Had full cell service w At&t. Looks like people have driven right onto the sand by the water. Hundreds of birds flying around the canyon walls and rocks. Could hear the cows at the nearby farm, and occasionally smell them when the wind was right. I visited in April and the water level was low.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Snake River Vista Recreation Site

    Massive confusion and deep ruts

    I don't know how people are finding the beautiful places they show here. I used the GPS coordinates from here and it led me to a maze of twisted little passages. Very deeply rutted roads challenging me and my 4wd led to a complex of turns and turnarounds. The only road that appeared to lead down to the river was dirt at about 45 degrees. There are many ways to go and I don't know how to could know which to take. Must be dumb luck to find a pretty place by the river.

    So, I left and went to the location that the BLM website gives for this named place. It's not the same place. The official location of this place is farther west. That is poorly identified, too. There's a signed turnoff but down the road there's a "Y". I went right. That led to confusion and nasty flies going into my nose and eyes. I left.

    Looking at the map later it appears that I should have gone LEFT at the "Y" instead of right. I have no idea what that's like.

    Basically, this place has many roads that intersect and go to unknown places. I don't know why there are so many roads, circles, "Y"s, along the river, perpendicular to the river.

    The BLM website isn't helpful. I called them and expected a call back but didn't get it.

    I wouldn't go here without one of the people here who submitted great reviews with beautiful photos. It's not worth the confusing directions (both my Garmin RV GPS and Google Maps were wrong in different places) and ambiguity of destinations.

  • Robin B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 19, 2023

    Snake River Vista Recreation Site

    Wonderful secluded spot

    This site is right above the snake River so you can hear the water, wonderful way to fall asleep! You are in the High Desert of Idaho so this site is amongst sagebrush but has good shade trees also. When I was there I could start a tent but this ground does tend to get pretty hard during dry season so staking may be a bit more difficult.

    There are actually 2 sites you can pitch a tent or park a vehicle. There is also a firepit. I got really good cell reception. There are fun trails to explore with beautiful scenery. This would also be a great spot if you like to pole fish. You can walk to the river and cast in! This spot os about 8 miles to the American Falls Dam where you can kayak, SUP, fish, and picnic

    The directions were spot on. I recommend a vehicle with relatively high clearance. It os closer to the interstate than you would expect so you can hear vehicles but was super quiet at night

  • Andy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed

    Great campground, not great road

    Beautiful and peaceful, right on the river's edge. Lots to explore. No amenities so be prepared for that. Great place if the road in wasn't so stetchy. Barely made it out with 2wd E250 van. 4wd would probably be fine, just be aware it's a bumpy ride either way! If you come in August, bring something for the flies (they're pretty bad). ✌️

Guide to Burley

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Burley, Idaho, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of stunning locations, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Scenic Waterfalls for Dispersed Campers

  • The Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed area offers breathtaking views and access to nearby waterfalls, making it a must-visit for those who love nature's beauty.
  • Visitors have noted that the drive down to the site is manageable, even for larger vehicles, and the peaceful surroundings enhance the camping experience.
  • Trails leading from the site provide opportunities for exploration, with many paths leading to the picturesque waterfalls that are often overlooked by other campers.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Burley, Idaho

  • When heading to McClendon Spring Campground, be prepared for a rocky road that may not be suitable for big rigs, but rewards you with stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
  • It's advisable to bring all necessary supplies, as amenities are limited; however, the peaceful setting makes it a great spot for a quiet getaway.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife, as the area is known for deer sightings and offers a chance to stargaze away from city lights.

Hidden Gems for Dispersed Campers

  • The Flat Canyon Dispersed Campground - Sawtooth National Forest is a hidden gem that provides a quiet and open space surrounded by forest, perfect for those seeking solitude.
  • With picnic tables and fire rings available, this spot is ideal for a cozy evening under the stars, away from the hustle and bustle.
  • Accessing this location requires a bit of a drive, but the serene environment and beautiful views make it worth the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Burley?

Dispersed camping around Burley follows standard BLM regulations: pack out all trash, practice Leave No Trace principles, and use existing fire rings when available. At Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed, campers should respect the multiple uses of the area, particularly avoiding setting up on beaches used by early morning fishermen. Most dispersed sites limit stays to 14 days within a 28-day period. Campfires may be restricted during dry seasons, especially in August when fire danger increases. Many areas require high-clearance or 4WD vehicles due to rutted access roads. Always check current conditions and restrictions with the local BLM office or Forest Service before heading out, as regulations can change seasonally.

What amenities or facilities are available at dispersed camping sites near Burley?

Dispersed camping sites near Burley typically offer minimal to no amenities. Wahlstrom Hollow (Dispersed) provides wonderful shade but absolutely no amenities, so plan to take care of business at more developed campgrounds nearby. McClendon Spring Campground is similarly primitive with limited facilities. Most dispersed sites feature informal fire rings and flat areas for tents or vehicles. Some locations like Rickett's RV Camp do provide vault toilets and picnic tables, but these are exceptions rather than the rule. Cell service varies by location – Cauldron Linn reports full AT&T coverage, while other areas may have limited or no service. Bring all necessary supplies including water, food, toilet paper, and waste disposal bags, as most dispersed sites operate on a pack-in, pack-out basis.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Burley, Idaho?

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Burley. Snake River Vista Recreation Site offers multiple sites just minutes off the highway with beautiful river views and pre-built fire rings. It's accessible with 2WD vehicles at upper sites, though 4x4 is recommended for lower spots. Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp provides 13 level RV parking pads north of Twin Falls with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. For those willing to drive further, South Hills area provides options like Wahlstrom Hollow along creek roads, though these sites are typically smaller and more primitive. City of Rocks also offers dispersed camping opportunities within driving distance of Burley.

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