The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Dispersed Camping near City of Rocks National Reserve

58 Reviews

Several free dispersed camping areas surround City of Rocks National Reserve, located on BLM land approximately 2 miles outside the main park boundaries. The most accessible site sits near the "Bread Loaves" area with multiple stone fire rings and flat tent spaces. This open field area contains 5 established fire pits with sufficient room for 3-4 vehicles per site, though finding completely level ground can be challenging. The dispersed sites accommodate both tents and RVs, with no shade and occasional cattle visitors as the land is also used for open grazing.

Access requires traveling gravel roads that can be rough in sections but remain passable for most vehicles. No water or restroom facilities exist at the dispersed sites, though outhouses can be found within a 5-10 minute drive into the national reserve. According to visitors on The Dyrt, "It's much better than paying a lot for the campgrounds in City of Rocks," though the open terrain "can get a bit windy." For those seeking alternatives, Flat Canyon Dispersed Campground in the Sawtooth National Forest offers more sheltered sites with picnic tables and fire rings, located several miles from Independence Lakes along a lengthy gravel road.

Map showing campgrounds near City of Rocks National Reserve, IdahoExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near City of Rocks National Reserve (8)

    1. City of Rocks

    4 Reviews
    Almo, ID
    5 miles
    Website

    $14 / night

    "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."

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

    2. City of Rocks Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Almo, ID
    2 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."

    3. Flat Canyon Dispersed Campground - Sawtooth National Forest

    2 Reviews
    Oakley, ID
    13 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."

    4. Lower Goose Creek (Oakley) Reservoir

    2 Reviews
    Oakley, ID
    13 miles
    Website

    5. 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."

    6. Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed

    38 Reviews
    Murtaugh, ID
    36 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"

    7. Lower Goose Lake Camp

    Be the first to review!
    Oakley, ID
    13 miles

    8. Wahlstrom Hollow (Dispersed)

    1 Review
    Murtaugh, ID
    29 miles
Show More
Showing results 1-8 of 8 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

City of Rocks National Reserve Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near City of Rocks National Reserve

38 Photos of 8 City of Rocks National Reserve Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near City of Rocks National Reserve

58 Reviews of 8 City of Rocks National Reserve 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.

  • 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.

  • 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). ✌️

  • Cody E.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 18, 2021

    Flat Canyon Dispersed Campground - Sawtooth National Forest

    Nice hidden Spot near Independence Lakes Campground.

    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. I recommend anyone coming in with a trailer or Rv to come in from the Elba side opposed to the Oakley Side. If your looking for a nice quiet location located a few miles from a nice hike to the lakes this is the place. This is one of those hidden spots for those wanting to stay a few days hiking or taking out their ATV/UTV.

  • Alex R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2024

    Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed

    Beautiful Area! Sketchy Roads

    This is a very beautiful area to camp out in. Not far off the river with places to drive right up to the edge of the water (with the right vehicle). Wildlife was very active; lots of mosquitoes and bats at night. Dirt road leading to the area has some pretty rough spots and some washboarding, but it’s all doable. The road that actually takes you down into the canyon has a steep sharp downhill turn with large rocks, depressions, and soft silt. I managed to get down in my Ford Transit Connect (pretty sketchy), but I had to try a couple times before I could make it back up and out the next day. So BE AWARE: gravity can probably help you down without getting stuck, but remember that you will have to get back up, and if your vehicle is 2wd and particularly heavy or low or is bad with hills, it may not be a breeze. (Maybe I’m just being dramatic though lol) I probably won’t risk it again, the stress was too much for my poor nerves.

  • 5 STAR X P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 2, 2024

    Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed

    Great camping spot in January

    Easy site to get to..rolled in at night. Back, overlooking the river gorge, which offers great morning view and the winds blow from the sides so I was able to open up the rear of my rtt. Continue past the sign if you have high clearance... lots more beautiful sites

Guide to City of Rocks National Reserve

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near City of Rocks National Reserve in Idaho, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of options for those seeking solitude and adventure.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near City of Rocks National Reserve, Idaho

  • When heading to City of Rocks, be prepared for rough roads; some routes can be challenging, especially for larger vehicles.
  • It's essential to pack out what you pack in, as many dispersed sites, like those at Flat Canyon Dispersed Campground, lack trash disposal facilities.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak seasons, as popular areas can fill up quickly.

Dispersed campers should check out McClendon Spring

  • The drive to McClendon Spring Campground is a bit rocky, but the stunning views and wildlife sightings make it worthwhile.
  • This site offers a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for stargazing, as noted by visitors who enjoyed the clear night skies.
  • Be aware that amenities are minimal, so bring all necessary supplies, including water, as there are no hookups available.

Enjoy hiking and exploring while free camping near City of Rocks National Reserve

  • The City of Rocks Dispersed area is ideal for rock climbers and hikers, with numerous trails and stunning rock formations to explore.
  • Many campers have reported enjoying the scenic views and tranquility of the area, making it a great spot for photography and nature walks.
  • Keep in mind that while the area is beautiful, it lacks amenities, so plan accordingly for a self-sufficient camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping areas in City of Rocks National Reserve?

Dispersed camping sites at City of Rocks are scattered along the main road throughout the reserve. These primitive sites offer beautiful views of the unique rock formations and a peaceful atmosphere. The sites have minimal amenities - only pit toilets are available, with no trash service, so pack out all waste. For more seclusion, check out Flat Canyon Dispersed Campground in the nearby Sawtooth National Forest, which offers larger sites suitable for multiple vehicles and comes equipped with basic amenities like fire rings and picnic tables. Most dispersed sites are accessible via the main park roads, but some may require high-clearance vehicles.

Is there free camping available near City of Rocks National Reserve in Idaho?

Yes, free camping is available near City of Rocks National Reserve. City of Rocks Dispersed offers completely free campsites on surrounding BLM public land. These sites don't require permits or reservations, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. For a free alternative with water access, Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed provides scenic camping along the Snake River. While free, these sites are primitive with no established amenities, so come prepared with all necessary supplies including water and waste disposal solutions. The road to Cauldron Linn is steep and rough, generally requiring 4WD vehicles, especially after weather events.

What camping options are available near City of Rocks National Reserve?

The City of Rocks area offers diverse camping options for all preferences. For primitive experiences, Wahlstrom Hollow provides shaded sites along creek roads in the South Hills, though without amenities. McClendon Spring Campground is accessible via dirt roads but can be overgrown seasonally. Additional options include Lower Goose Creek Reservoir with basic toilet facilities and the nearby Sawtooth National Forest campgrounds. Most sites are accessible for tents and small trailers, while some BLM areas can accommodate RVs. Be prepared for variable conditions and limited facilities at most locations, especially during shoulder seasons. Some areas require high-clearance vehicles or 4WD for access.

Keep Exploring