Dispersed camping around Clarkia, Idaho offers primitive sites throughout the St. Joe National Forest with natural features not found in developed campgrounds. The region sits at approximately 3,000 feet elevation with significant seasonal temperature variations between warm summer days and cold nights. Access to rustic camping in this area typically requires navigating gravel roads that connect multiple drainages and creek systems, with some requiring high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The St. Joe River and Big Creek areas provide excellent fly fishing opportunities for cutthroat trout. A visitor at Big Creek, Calder, Idaho notes, "There are secluded dispersed campsites on Big Creek between the campgrounds on Big Creek RD. If you're set up for off grid its definitely worth spending a few days fly fishing or hiking the area."
Hiking to alpine lakes: For those willing to pack in, the mountain lakes offer pristine camping. One camper at Stevens Lakes Backcountry shares, "By far one of my favorite Mt lake hikes! With great camping at both the lower and upper lakes, I recommend using the trails app to help navigate through the switch backs, and have lots of water!"
Wildlife viewing: Deer frequently visit campsites throughout the forest. Morning and evening hours provide the best opportunities for wildlife sightings, with minimal human disturbance increasing chances of encounters.
What campers like
River access: Many campers appreciate sites directly adjacent to water. A camper at Dispersed Site on St. Joe River Rd reports, "This one has a small boat launch and several fire pits. Not the best spot for swimming due to the current in this section of the river but good enough to wade in and cool off anyway."
Seclusion: The more remote sites provide genuine isolation. At Donkey Creek Campground, a visitor commented, "This campground is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out area close to the swiftly flowing Marble Creek. There is one vault toilet and two fire rings with grills, but also a couple more spots with just rock rings."
Natural soundscapes: Many campers mention the peaceful sounds of flowing water at riverside sites. Road noise is minimal at locations away from main forest roads, though seasonal ATV traffic may occasionally disrupt quieter areas.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most sites have no amenities beyond occasional vault toilets. Prepare for true rustic camping near Clarkia by bringing all supplies, including drinking water and waste disposal bags.
Road conditions: Forest roads deteriorate significantly during spring runoff or after heavy rains. Access to the most remote sites often requires vehicles with higher clearance.
Seasonal restrictions: Some areas have camping prohibitions during certain times. A reviewer at Bull Run Access Dispersed points out, "This is Idaho Fish and Wildlife property and has a 3-day maximum stay."
Insect activity: Mosquitoes can be intense, particularly near water. One camper warns, "I had my door opened for just a few minutes and had to kill like 20 before I could sleep."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose sites with level ground away from water hazards. A visitor recommends, "If you drive past the first couple grass campsites and continue on the narrow road with water on both sides, just off to the right is a single secluded campsite amongst the tree. The best site there imo."
Proximity to facilities: For younger children, select sites near established campgrounds with vault toilets. Horse Camp Trailhead offers more accessible camping with primitive facilities, as one camper mentions, "Laird Park is just down the road and you can get to nice river areas from both campsites."
Weather preparation: Summer temperature swings can exceed 30°F between day and night. Pack layers even during summer months, as evening temperatures drop quickly after sunset.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. At Rose Lake, one RVer noted, "There is a big space for large vans and campers and as you go down to the lake there are two campsites next to the bathroom that are perfect for tent camping."
Leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks as few sites offer naturally level parking. Another RVer warned, "I struggled with this place, it would be really great if the two lot areas were level. There isn't a level spot anywhere."
Turning radius: Scout potential sites before attempting to access with larger rigs. One camper with experience bringing in a larger rig explains, "We were able to get our fifth wheel (40ft long, 13 1/2 ft tall) in and out easy! Lots of spaces and places to turn around."
