Top Free Dispersed Camping near Cambridge, ID

Are you planning a dispersed camping trip to Cambridge? We've got you covered. Find everything from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking with The Dyrt. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Cambridge just for you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Cambridge, ID (15)

    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping

    1. Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping

    13 Reviews
    21 Photos
    161 Saves

    Camping on public lands away from developed recreation facilities is referred to as dispersed camping. Most of the remainder of public lands are open to dispersed camping, as long as it does not conflict with other authorized uses or in areas posted "closed to camping," or in some way adversely affects wildlife species or natural resources. Dispersed camping is allowed on public land for a period not to exceed 14 days within a 28 consecutive day period. The 28 day period begins when a camper initially occupies a specific location on public lands. The 14 day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28 day period. After the 14th day of occupation, the camper must move outside of a 25 mile radius of the previous location until the 29th day since the initial occupation. The purpose of this special rule is to prevent damage to sensitive resources caused by continual use of any particular areas. In addition, campers must not leave any personal property unattended for more than 10 days (12 months in Alaska).

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackrock Canyon Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackrock Canyon Recreation Site

    2. Blackrock Canyon Recreation Site

    6 Reviews
    2 Photos
    59 Saves

    The Blackrock Canyon is associated with the Chinese Peak – Blackrock Rock Trail System, providing non-motorized and motorized users over 40 miles of trails to utilize for OHV, equestrian, mountain biking and hiking. This site is equipped with sheltered picnic tables, fire rings, vaulted restrooms and 2 trailhead parking lots. Additionally, there is an ATV loading/unloading ramp at the lower lot. Site and trail rules and regulations are posted at the trailheads. The site is closed to shooting year around.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Portneuf Lower Sportsmen's Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Portneuf Lower Sportsmen's Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Heart Mountain Spring
    Camper-submitted photo from Heart Mountain Spring
    Camper-submitted photo from Heart Mountain Spring
    Camper-submitted photo from Heart Mountain Spring
    Camper-submitted photo from Heart Mountain Spring
    Camper-submitted photo from Heart Mountain Spring
    Camper-submitted photo from Snake River Vista Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Snake River Vista Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Snake River Vista Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Snake River Vista Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Snake River Vista Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Snake River Vista Recreation Site

    5. Snake River Vista Recreation Site

    8 Reviews
    18 Photos
    115 Saves

    Camping, fishing for trout and boating are the favorite activities along the Snake River from this semi-developed recreation site.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping
    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Smithfield Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Smithfield Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Smithfield Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Smithfield Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Smithfield Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Diamond Creek Guard Station
      Camper-submitted photo from Diamond Creek Guard Station
      Camper-submitted photo from Diamond Creek Guard Station
      Camper-submitted photo from Diamond Creek Guard Station
      Camper-submitted photo from Diamond Creek Guard Station
      Camper-submitted photo from Diamond Creek Guard Station

      9. Diamond Creek Guard Station

      3 Reviews
      17 Photos
      12 Saves

      Overview

      Diamond Creek Guard Station is located 30 miles east of Soda Springs, Idaho. The current building was constructed in the early 1990 ??s as a snowmobile warming hut. The cabin is accessible by car in warmer months and by snowmobile in winter. The cabin provides a few conveniences; however, guests should be prepared to bring the supplies and equipment they need to make their stay more comfortable.

      Recreation

      The Bear Canyon OHV Trail is about two miles north of the guard station . Hikers and mountain bikers will also find trails nearby. The area surrounding the cabin is a playground for snowmobilers and skiers in the winter months. Anglers can fish in nearby Diamond Creek. The surrounding area also attracts big game and game bird hunters.

      Natural Features

      The cabin sits in a meadow at an elevation of 6,900 feet surrounded by the peaks of Dry Ridge and the Webster sub-range in southeastern Idaho. Stands of aspen and lodgepole pine dot the landscape. Wildlife in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest includes black bears, wolves, elk, moose, mule deer, bison, grizzly bears , mountain lions and pronghorn.

      • Fires
      • Reservable
      • Cabins
      • Trash
      • Picnic Table
      • Drinking Water

      $35 / night

      • No image available
      Showing results 1-10 of 15 campgrounds

      Recent Dispersed Reviews In Cambridge

      33 Reviews of 15 Cambridge Campgrounds


      • Michael
        Camper-submitted photo from Snake River Vista Recreation Site
        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

      • L
        Camper-submitted photo from Snake River Vista Recreation Site
        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.

      • Kaden M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping
        Aug. 4, 2024

        Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping

        Wasted time looking here

        Tons of land, tons of campsites.. but most are "occupied" by empty trailers with no other vehicles or people around. There's empty cars parked on top of fire pits, no tents or any sort of life nearby. Felt strange.

        This road is rough and very bumpy. Didn't feel comfortable "taking over" a campsite with things already parked there. Wouldn't recommend coming here.

      • CThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Snake River Vista Recreation Site
        Jul. 30, 2024

        Snake River Vista Recreation Site

        Stunner

        Such easy access off 86, so it’s the perfect pull out for a road trip. We were traveling from Colorado to Oregon and found this spot late in the evening of our 2nd day and couldn’t have been happier. We rolled in amongst the thunderstorms, which blew over just in time for a beautiful sunset. There was a little noise from the road, but once we crawled in the tent it was hard to distinguish the traffic noise from that of the river.

        Very clean, lots of spots, 10 out of 10 would stay here again.

      • Kennedy F.
        Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping
        Jul. 15, 2024

        Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping

        Big areas of solitude

        Ended up driving this road up to Idaho to find a bigger spot and some solitude. Took the dirt road for about 30 minutes and got the most perfect spot. Nobody was near us and the view was amazing. We went at the beginning of June, it was a bit chilly some mornings and at night, so come prepared.

      • Chris A.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Portneuf Lower Sportsmen's Access
        Jul. 7, 2024

        Portneuf Lower Sportsmen's Access

        Quick Overnight Pullover

        Easy access from Lava with about 10 designated spots, most with room for two vehicles and one(?) pull through spot that fit my truck/30foot TT. Most had either a metal fire ring or picnic table or both. Pretty enough area, but right off the road and even closer to a train that passed through multiple times at night.

        Pulled in at 10:30 pm Saturday night July Fourth weekend and was able to snag the last spot so very clutch!

        NOTE - Google satellite photos are NOT accurate, the area is fenced off and sites are limited, no longer the free for all it appears to have been

      • AThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping
        May. 9, 2024

        Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping

        Passing through

        May 2024 - This is a good stopping point for those who are passing through. There is a Flying J truck stop on the opposite side of I-15. They have fuel, propane, dump station ($10) and water. The road into dispersed camping is full of pot holes so go slow with a Class A RV or if you have low clearance. The noise from the freeway is minimal. I would stay here again.

      • C
        Camper-submitted photo from Blackrock Canyon Recreation Site
        Oct. 9, 2023

        Blackrock Canyon Recreation Site

        Great Spot!

        Nice spot in a gravel parking lot surrounded by small mountains with toilets nearby. Park on the right as camping is prohibited on the left.

        As others have mentioned, dirt bikes and four wheelers are driving by at night & you can just barely hear the cars from the highway. I’m sure I’ll sleep juuuuust fine 😌

      • Cory M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping
        Sep. 26, 2023

        Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping

        Former Indian Rocks State Park

        This site is at an abandoned state park. The coordinates navigate just past the entrance and we got a bit confused at first. Mapping to Indian Rocks State Park will provide more accurate directions.

        The site is very accessible - the road is washboard with lots of potholes, slow going for us with a 24' travel trailer, but totally doable. Plenty of sites - we snagged a mostly level pull through and stayed hitched. Great views. Traffic noise isn't ideal, but fine for a quick stop.

      • M
        Camper-submitted photo from Snake River Vista Recreation Site
        Jul. 13, 2023

        Snake River Vista Recreation Site

        Looked like a goat trail

        The road down to it was silt. We were afraid we wouldn't make it back out. It was like an old goat trail. The camp spots were not near the water and people burned garbage on them. I really don't recommend this spot. There were wood pallets and an old headboard people were trying to burn.

      • Violeta A.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping
        Jul. 1, 2023

        Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping

        Great location

        After a long drive this place was perfect. This location is very close the freeway exit. We got lucky to find a pretty leveled pull through site. It looked liked there were only about 10 sites in total. The road in was unpaved but not too rough. Some cars drove past during our stay faster than that we thought was correct. The views to the mountain were awesome. We had some cows come and visit our site early the morning we were leaving. Not sure about why they are free roaming but we liked having them visit.

      • G
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping
        Jul. 1, 2023

        Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping

        Great BLM spot

        Found a perfect spot here and this particular one was quite level! A tree for some shade, quiet, but above all, spectacular views. Road is slightly washboard along with occasional pot holes but accessible for my 24 ft. RV.

      • Aubz2themax
        Camper-submitted photo from Snake River Vista Recreation Site
        Jun. 25, 2023

        Snake River Vista Recreation Site

        Beautiful & Secluded

        What an amazing find! This camp site had 4-5 sites, some on the hill others near the water. There was even a little beach that could be see from the road near the river. We found the perfect shady spot with fire pits built and the sound of the river in the background. Only 1 other person was there overnight. It was quiet and relaxing!

      • Keith S.
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping
        Jun. 25, 2023

        Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping

        Great over night stay

        Close to the interstate so some traffic noise but we had a good nights sleep. 8+ spots. We stoped here on our way to Yellowstone. This is an abandoned state park so some sites are over grown.

      • Erika M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping
        Jun. 23, 2023

        Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping

        Beautiful location right off highway 89

        Absolutely beautiful location off highway 89. A popular place especially for ohv-ers. Lots of places to park but most of them seemed to be “claimed” (tents or trailers with no vehicles) for the upcoming weekend. That is the only reason for the loss of one star. We were there on a Thursday night just for and one night stop-and-go, so any of those claimed spots we could have used had they not been there.

        There is a creek that flows back and forth around the area, we had that for our soundtrack as we slept.

        At about mile 2 from the turn-off, there is a cattle guard and clear signs that the road is public but the land is not. It is possible that there is another cattle guard further up and more dispersed passed it as we saw more rvs head up and not turn around and come back, but we did not investigate that.

        Well worth the trip in the search for a spot though. It was an amazing stay.

      • Robin B.
        Camper-submitted photo from Snake River Vista Recreation Site
        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

      • Auston T.
        Camper-submitted photo from Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping
        Jun. 13, 2023

        Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping

        Off-grid camping with beautiful scenery.

        I have grown up camping in the Franklin Basin area. It is the perfect location for anyone looking for places to hike or ride. There are many different places to visit throughout the area such as the "Plane Crash" site, Beaver Creek, old logging trails, and more. If your looking for a place to just get out in the dirt and relax, this is the place.

      • Daisee Mae S.
        Camper-submitted photo from Heart Mountain Spring
        Nov. 29, 2022

        Heart Mountain Spring

        Washboard Road

        This was a very amazing experience. The hot springs were absolutely amazing.

        There were a few visitors but only us and one other stayed. Our stay was a couple of nights.

        It’s worth the drive if you have 4WD or very good shocks and suspension



      Guide to Cambridge

      Camping near Cambridge, Idaho, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to pitch a tent or a place to park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.

      What to do:

      • Explore Lava Hot Springs: Just a short drive from Cambridge, this area is famous for its natural hot springs. One visitor at the Lava Hot Springs East KOA mentioned, "The Lava pools are amazing and the town is very charming and walkable options."
      • Hiking Trails: The Goodenough Creek Campground is near some great trails. A camper shared, "There are some great trails that can be hiked directly from the campground too."
      • Fishing and Water Activities: The Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access is perfect for fishing. One reviewer noted, "Short walk to fishing in the river."

      What campers like:

      • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at the Lava Hot Springs East KOA said, "Bathrooms and showers are very clean."
      • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have staff that go above and beyond. A reviewer mentioned, "The main positive of this CG is the staff. They were friendly and accommodating."
      • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One camper at the Goodenough Creek Campground said, "A beautiful drive in and a lovely campsite right next to a creek."

      What you should know:

      • Train Noise: Some campgrounds are near train tracks, which can be noisy at night. A camper at the Lower Portneuf Campground mentioned, "The trains; however, were a drag at night."
      • Extra Fees: Be prepared for additional charges at some campgrounds. A visitor at the Lava Hot Springs East KOA noted, "They add on extra fees for people, pets, and vehicles."
      • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have full amenities. A reviewer at the Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access stated, "No electricity or water."

      Tips for camping with families:

      • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with fun activities for kids. The Downata Hot Springs is great for families, as one reviewer said, "Fun for kids, groups, families."
      • Space for Kids to Play: Choose campgrounds with open areas. A visitor at the Pocatello KOA mentioned, "Kids playground area with grass."
      • Plan for Meals: Some campgrounds have markets nearby. A camper at the Lava Hot Springs West KOA noted, "There is also an outdoor pool at the KOA and a small convenience store."

      Tips from RVers:

      • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at the Lava Hot Springs East KOA warned, "You need to be an expert backer, or very lucky."
      • Look for Full Hookups: Some campgrounds offer full hookups, which can be a big plus. A visitor at the Pocatello KOA said, "Easy night check in, full hookups and WiFi."
      • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some RV sites can be cramped. A camper at the Devils Creek RV Park mentioned, "Sites super close together."

      Camping around Cambridge, ID, has its quirks, but with the right preparation, you can have a fantastic time enjoying the great outdoors!

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Cambridge, ID?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cambridge, ID is Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping with a 4.1-star rating from 13 reviews.

      • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Cambridge, ID?

        TheDyrt.com has all 15 dispersed camping locations near Cambridge, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.