Primitive camping near Challis, Idaho offers riverside and mountain terrain opportunities with seasonal variations throughout the Sawtooth and Challis National Forests. Challis sits at 5,253 feet elevation in the Salmon River Valley, creating a high desert climate with cold winters and warm, dry summers. Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly in afternoons, especially in July and August when temperatures typically range from 50-85°F.
What to do
Fishing access: Salmon River provides multiple fishing spots near Deer Gulch, where campers have direct river access. "This is a nice and convenient place to stop. Right along the Salmon river. RT. 93 is close so some traffic noise. Vault toilets. No dump or water. Lots of sites to the left and right after crossing the bridge," notes Eric G.
Mountain biking: The area near Redfish Lake Overflow Dispersed offers gravel trails for mountain biking enthusiasts. "Directly across the street there is a nice gravel mountain bike trail that leads past the ranger station," shares Amy K., highlighting the convenient trail access.
Wildlife viewing: Remote dispersed sites offer chances to see diverse wildlife. "Saw mama moose and twin babies. Despite July heat we had 77 degree days and cool breezes," reports Cia S. about their experience at Winged Fork Pl Dispersed.
What campers like
River proximity: Campers consistently rate riverside spots highly at Deadman Hole. "Simple. Stayed here for two nights. The first night I have the whole area to myself. The second night there was two other campers. Doesn't seem to be super popular or high in demand," notes Ben H., mentioning the typically uncrowded nature of the site.
Spacious sites: Many dispersed areas offer ample space between campsites. "Lots of room for our dogs to run by site without bothering others," writes Sharon W. about her experience at Deer Gulch, highlighting the generous spacing.
Connectivity options: Cell service varies dramatically between sites. "I had full bars with Verizon (the cell tower was within line of sight) but my friend with t-mobile had no service whatsoever," reports Ted T. about Deer Gulch, providing useful information for those needing to stay connected.
What you should know
Bridge access challenges: Some sites require crossing bridges that may limit larger vehicles. "The first bridge is closed, and the second bridge is pretty narrow. I have a 16 foot camper, and didn't feel comfortable crossing it," warns Kenny R. about Salmon Creek Camp.
Road conditions: Forest roads require careful navigation. At Indian Springs, "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," advises Mackenzie F.
Weather planning: Weather changes quickly at higher elevations. Mosquito Flat Reservoir is only open May through September due to severe winter conditions, and summer temperatures can fluctuate 30+ degrees between day and night.
Tips for camping with families
Riverside activities: Families enjoy water access for cooling off during hot summer days. "The river is very shallow and the bank is quite muddy -- our little dog sank up to her belly," notes Laura M. about Deadman Hole, providing helpful information about water conditions.
Timing your arrival: Securing prime spots requires planning. "Got here on a Friday (8/26) around 7:30 pm. There were already some folks out here, but there were still some spaces," shares Martina S. about Decker Flats Dispersed, indicating Friday evenings still offer opportunities for finding spots.
Consider noise factors: Highway proximity affects some camping experiences. "Though this campground sits along the highway it is easier to tolerate noise when its free!" mentions Laura M. about Deadman Hole, highlighting practical expectations for families sensitive to noise.
Tips from RVers
RV access points: Careful navigation is essential for larger rigs. At Deer Gulch, Kenny R. reports: "Just off the main highway, and only a narrow bridge as an obstacle. There is currently a 30'ish foot big fifth wheel here, so I guess it can handle the weight. Just watch your sides if you are pulling a camper."
Campsite selection: Finding level spots can be challenging. "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," notes Sharon W. about her experience at Deer Gulch.
Services availability: Most primitive camping near Challis lacks hookups. "We are full-timers and have a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow and had scouted the area before arriving with the RV," shares Ray & Terri F. about Nip and Tuck Rd - Dispersed Camping, emphasizing the importance of scouting locations before arrival with larger RVs.
