Best Dispersed Camping near Challis, ID

The Challis area of central Idaho features predominantly dispersed camping options along the Salmon River and surrounding mountain terrain. Deadman Hole Recreation Site provides riverside camping with vault toilets and drinking water, while Deer Gulch offers similar riverside access with basic amenities. Most sites in the region are primitive BLM or Forest Service lands with established fire rings but minimal facilities. Mosquito Flat Reservoir, operating seasonally from May through September, provides lakeside camping opportunities. The surrounding Sawtooth National Forest and Challis National Forest lands contain numerous unmarked dispersed sites accessible via forest roads, particularly along East Fork Road and Highway 93.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the camping areas near Challis. As one camper noted, "On left, out East Fork Rd from Challis. Long ways. Decent dirt road but great drive." Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after spring runoff when washboarding and ruts develop. Cell service is extremely limited or nonexistent at most sites, with several reviewers mentioning signal boosters providing minimal improvement. Weather patterns change rapidly in this mountainous region, with summer thunderstorms common and early snow possible by late September. The Sawtooth National Forest imposes a 10-day stay limit between May 1 and September 15, with unlimited stays permitted outside that period.

Riverside camping locations receive consistently positive reviews, with the Salmon River access being a primary draw. According to one visitor at Deadman Hole, "Views for miles, steps from the Salmon River, boat launch for rafting, kayaking, fishing." Many sites feature generous spacing between camping areas, though those closer to highways experience road noise. Stargazing opportunities are frequently mentioned as exceptional due to minimal light pollution. Wildlife sightings include elk, deer, and various bird species, though campers should be prepared for insects, particularly mosquitoes in summer months. Fishing access is available at numerous locations, with Big Lost River and Salmon River sites being particularly popular among anglers seeking trout.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Challis, Idaho (25)

    1. Deadman Hole

    3 Reviews
    Clayton, ID
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 879-6200

    "Pros: *Views for miles *Steps from the Salmon River *Boat launch for rafting,kayaking,fishing *Covered picnic table *Generous spacing between sites *Serious star gazing opportunities

    • Easy drive to Challis"

    " Though this campground sits along the highway it is easier to tolerate noise when its free! 

    The campground loop is gravel and has “pull next to” (bump out?)"

    2. Mosquito Flat Reservoir

    1 Review
    Challis, ID
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 879-4100

    "Near the lake. No water, has vault toilets. Roads can be slick."

    3. Deer Gulch

    3 Reviews
    May, ID
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 756-2271

    "No dump or water. Lots of sites to the left and right after crossing the bridge."

    "Fire rings, bathrooms near by. We have a 26 ft TT and this was perfect right off highway. Only stayed one day due to it being a little warm and we were heading up north."

    4. Winged Fork Pl Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Clayton, ID
    27 miles

    "On left, out East Fork Rd from Challis. Long ways. Decent dirt road but great drive. Just past private land into National Forest, can see Germainia trailhead from there."

    5. Old Drag campsite

    1 Review
    Stanley, ID
    30 miles

    "Cute campsite with an old dragline excavator next to it. Access to the river, nice little fire ring"

    6. Nip and Tuck Rd - Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Stanley, ID
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 774-3000

    "The roads in to this area, NF-563/Stanley Creek Rd and NF-633/Nip and Tuck Road are in pretty decent shape for all vehicles coming in from the West off of Hwy 21, but be warned, do not come in from the"

    "This stretch of dispersed camping is amazing. Above the town of Stanley and overlooking the Sawtooths."

    7. Indian Springs

    1 Review
    Salmon-Challis National Forest, ID
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 879-4101

    "The campsite is great but getting to it is a challenge, my F-150 was able to do it but anything longer or with less clearance would struggle."

    8. Decker Flats Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    Stanley, ID
    45 miles

    "I wont rattle on about how we were within 2 mins of a hiking trail that leads you to "Hell's Roaring lake", or about the amazing Trout fishing within 10 feet of my tent, or even the stunning sunrises every"

    "There was road noise from the nearby highway but otherwise it was quiet. I saw people fishing so I assume it's good for that. The river is great for rinsing off as well."

    9. Redfish Lake Overflow Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Stanley, ID
    41 miles

    "In this video we provide a comprehensive review of 3 of the free boondocking(dispersed camping) sites near Stanley, Idaho in the Sawtooth National Forest. Salmon River Designated Spots 1, 2 and 3."

    "Directly across the street there is a nice gravel mountain bike trail that leads past the ranger station"

    10. Big Lost River Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Mackay, ID
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 756-2271

    "I selected this campground after missing out on a nearby first come first serve that was fully booked."

    "Incredible views after driving through most of Idaho this spot is a relief!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 25 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Challis, ID

44 Reviews of 25 Challis Campgrounds



Guide to Challis

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Challis, Idaho, where nature's tranquility meets the freedom of the great outdoors. With stunning landscapes and a variety of camping options, this area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Challis, Idaho

  • Make sure to bring your own water and firewood, as places like Deer Gulch do not provide these amenities.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife while camping; many visitors have spotted animals like moose and deer in areas such as Nip and Tuck Rd - Dispersed Camping.
  • Be prepared for varying road conditions; some access roads can be rough, especially when heading to spots like Iron Creek Camp on Forest Road 619.

Scenic views for dispersed campers

  • Enjoy breathtaking mountain views at Deadman Hole, where the scenery is complemented by the nearby Salmon River.
  • Campers at Mosquito Flat Reservoir can take in stunning lake views while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
  • The area around Redfish Lake Overflow Dispersed offers picturesque landscapes, perfect for photography and relaxation.

Top activities while free camping near Challis

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Challis, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Challis, ID is Deadman Hole with a 4.3-star rating from 3 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 25 dispersed camping locations near Challis, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.