Top Free Dispersed Camping near Clayton, ID

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Clayton, look no further. Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Clayton, including photos, reviews, and tips. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Idaho excursion.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Clayton, ID (35)

Showing results 1-10 of 35 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Clayton

43 Reviews of 35 Clayton Campgrounds


  • Fred S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Corral Creek Designated Dispersed
    Oct. 31, 2024

    Corral Creek Designated Dispersed

    Large dispersed site near creek

    Free designated dispersed campsite along Sawtooth Nation Forest Road 137. Camped here at the end of September 2024. Very large designated dispersed site set downhill from the forest road; no issues with dust from this road. The area is level. May be able to park 3 rigs. Tent camping is possible back from the parking area toward the metal firering. This area can accommodate 3 or 4 tents, or one big hot tent. Corral Creek is just down a short path from the campsite. The sound of the creek can be heard at the site. Very quiet area. Mountains on either side of the site. The parking area is dirt and gravel. The "tent" area is grass and dirt. Don't see opportunities for hammock camping. No cell service. No shade; solar recharging and Starlink possible. 3 day limit. Hiking trailheads and vault toilet at the end of the forest road.

  • bThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Decker Flats Dispersed
    Oct. 11, 2024

    Decker Flats Dispersed

    Nice place close to great trailheads

    I enjoyed my 2 night stay here. I pitched a tent however it was quite windy due to it being an open area so just stake your tent down well. I had a spot right beside the salmon river and was able to access this campsite via my Honda Accord vehicle.

  • bThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Decker Flats Dispersed
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Decker Flats Dispersed

    Very nice stay close to the Sawtooth mountains

    This was a great stay. I found a place to pitch a tent right beside the river. There seemed to be plenty of spots some vacant at times. It was close to Highway 75 but did get some traffic noise but the river drowned most of it out. Would stay here again!

  • Ben H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Deadman Hole Dispersed
    Sep. 4, 2024

    Deadman Hole Dispersed

    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. So finding a spot shouldn't be a problem. There was about six or more parking/camping areas. No Wi-Fi or Verizon signal. There is a toilet available. Access to the river as well.

  • Maddie P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Nip and Tuck Rd - Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Nip and Tuck Rd - Dispersed Camping

    Less busy than other camping areas

    Got to Stanley area around 6pm on a Friday. Drove to Stanley Lake and Iron Creek but everything was full. Decided to drive down Rd 653 then to Rd 633 to see if there was anything open and found a good spot about 2 miles in from hwy 21. I passed quite a few people but spots are pretty far apart and the only people I could see from my campsite were all the way across the valley. Only animals I saw were some antelope, ground squirrels, and cows. Pretty wildflowers all around too. It was a good place to stop for the night!

  • Nicki S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Antelope Creek
    Feb. 22, 2024

    Antelope Creek

    Great

    This site was pretty easy to find. There were a couple of campers camped closer to the road from the turn-off but we managed to find a spot that was secluded and perfect for us right next to the creek. Tons of space, especially since we were by ourselves. Had a real fire pit! This was a cold stay and our tent was covered in frost in the morning, but a good spot to be. Close enough to town, close enough to hiking.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Corral Creek Canyon Dispersed
    Oct. 2, 2023

    Corral Creek Canyon Dispersed

    Nice location, campsites spreadout

    Quiet, private campsites. Close to Sun Valley. Place to turn around if unable to fine a campsite. No cell coverage. Only 3 day limit.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Antelope Creek
    Oct. 2, 2023

    Antelope Creek

    Close in to Sun Valley

    Nice location, close to town. Close to road but not much traffic. Access can be difficult with steep access from main road and tricky spots along the access road. There are three access spots. Would pick the first or second. The road is difficult between the second and third access roads. Would recommend walking down to see if safe for you and your vehicle. There is more dispersed camping farther up the road but you begin to lose cell coverage.

  • Courtney G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Nip and Tuck Rd - Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 12, 2023

    Nip and Tuck Rd - Dispersed Camping

    Love this spot!

    Took advice from the other review and entered through the east from hwy21. Found my spot about 2.5- 3 miles in. This was the only one I saw at about 7pm on a Wednesday. Had entertainment from cows in the distance!

  • tThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Lost River Dispersed
    Aug. 7, 2023

    Big Lost River Dispersed

    Surprisingly easy access. Clean and ADA accessible

    I selected this campground after missing out on a nearby first come first serve that was fully booked. I am just thrilled with the campsites and cleanliness of the pit toilets and nearby stream and fishing.

  • b
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Creek Rd Dispersed
    Jul. 24, 2023

    Lake Creek Rd Dispersed

    Wow! Gorgeous

    The first part of the road allows for 3-day max camping, but a little further in, you’ll hit 16-day max stay! The sites further up are away from the others and run along a stream. Still further in, you’ll hit a Y in the road. The right side leads you to a small parking lot with bathrooms and access to a small pond, the left leads you up to more sites. Not too far past the pond, the dirt road is less smooth and has tall grass growing in the middle of the road. I scored a gorgeous site, with a campfire pit already established. The site overlooks the pond, with the Sun Valley Ski Resort seen in the distance and has a gorgeous Mountain View on the opposite side. Absolutely stunning! Plenty of ground squirrels and butterflies and have only seen 2 cars all day.

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron Creek Camp on Forest Road 619
    Jun. 28, 2023

    Iron Creek Camp on Forest Road 619

    Designated Dispersed 2023

    This area along lower Iron Creek Road had some rough free dispersed spots that had cell signal from Stanley. As of June 2023 there are info boards and signage that notes dispersed camping only in designated spots marked on the ground with new signs. I saw an A group and a B group and may be more farther up but the road was so rough washboard potholed I did not check. These sites are small and not suitable for RVs and large TTs in my opinion. No toilets, no dumpsters and no water. However, this is very close to Stanley town.

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Stanley Lake FS 638 Road Dispersed
    Jun. 25, 2023

    Stanley Lake FS 638 Road Dispersed

    FS road #638 Dispersed

    Area of FS road #638 and #630. Large flat area around an old burrow pit. Very popular and lots of campers when I visited. Not a lot of privacy in my opinion, but it is only a few miles from Stanley Lake boat ramp.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from County Road 210 Dispersed
    Oct. 3, 2022

    County Road 210 Dispersed

    October 1, 2022 Update (May Be Closed to Camping)

    I drove up to check out this area since we were staying in Salmon River Designated Spot 2 and there are now no camping signs all over in this area. It is very hard to tell if the signs are meant just for the specific area where they are posted as it is clear those are in previous camping spots, but there are other spots that do not have signs right next to those. You may want to check with the ranger station before heading up to see if camping is still allowed in this area. On a side note, as others have mentioned the road up is pretty steep and rutted so enter with caution. I would not have pulled my 30ft travel trailer up there for sure.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Redfish Lake Overflow Dispersed
    Oct. 3, 2022

    Redfish Lake Overflow Dispersed

    Video Review Now Available

    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. All locations are in the Sawtooth National Forest and there is a 10 day stay limit between May 1- September 15th with an unlimited stay limited outside of that time period. 

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5WWH8Vb49Ow&t=531s

  • Mondo Moto Media
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Lost River Dispersed
    Sep. 14, 2022

    Big Lost River Dispersed

    Amazing views even worth the bit of washboard road you must go over

    Incredible views after driving through most of Idaho this spot is a relief! Water /fishing access ,private spots , even one really nice paved spot close to entrance , don’t miss the turn it’s near a cattle gate on the gravel road

  • m
    Camper-submitted photo from Decker Flats Dispersed
    Aug. 27, 2022

    Decker Flats Dispersed

    Easy access and nice space

    Got here on a Friday (8/26) around 7:30 pm. There were already some folks out here, but there were still some spaces. Although, they were a bit close to each other in the main area where you pull in. Found a spot up the way by the creek that was further away from being around everyone there for a more secluded feel. Clean and easy.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Stanley Lake FS 638 Road Dispersed
    Aug. 22, 2022

    Stanley Lake FS 638 Road Dispersed

    Great views and close to the lake

    I love this place as dispersed camping is our favorite. We are not stacked in n together and have great views of tue Sawtooth. My speed test was done with Verizon and I was using a WeBoost.

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from County Road 210 Dispersed
    Aug. 10, 2022

    County Road 210 Dispersed

    Next to Redfish lake

    There are many camp sites along the road. Good cell service. Verizon. Only a mile or so to Redfish lake. Awesome lake. There is a paid shower, laundry and dump available there. Road narrow and is loose gravel.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Lost River Dispersed
    Aug. 1, 2022

    Big Lost River Dispersed

    Not bad off the road

    Probably 15 spots. AT&T 1-2 5G. Pit toilets, 10 day max stay right on Big Lost River, fishing might be good? No garbage, water. Not bad for a 2-3 nighter.



Guide to Clayton

Camping near Clayton, Idaho, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the water, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: The area is home to numerous trails, including those leading to breathtaking views of the Sawtooth Mountains. One camper mentioned, “The hike up to Goat Lake is still one of our most favorite hikes, simply gorgeous but strenuous at times” at Iron Creek Campground.
  • Water Activities: Enjoy fishing or kayaking in the nearby lakes. A review from Sockeye Campground highlights, “Gorgeous views. Any kind of water sports you crave.”
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife. One visitor at Redfish Inlet Trailhead noted, “Beautiful campgrounds with fearlessly friendly deer who visit your evening campfire.”

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning landscapes. A review for Stanley Lake Campground states, “Incredible views from about half of the sites.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are well-maintained. One camper at North Fork Campground said, “Very clean and well-maintained pit toilets.”
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the peaceful environment. A review for Casino Creek Campground mentions, “This was a quiet place across the river from the main road.”

What you should know

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A visitor at Salmon River Campground noted, “No cell reception ATT, Verizon, or TMobile.”
  • Seasonal Access: Most campgrounds are open from late spring to early fall. For example, Sunny Gulch Campground operates from May 23 to September 7.
  • Bear Awareness: Be cautious of wildlife, especially bears. A camper at North Fork Campground mentioned, “He even alerted the campers that a bear was spotted a few miles down.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with amenities like picnic tables and fire pits. A review for Challis Hot Springs highlights, “The campsites are immaculate.”
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a mix of activities for everyone. One camper at Redfish Lake Outlet Campground said, “There are pay showers $3, laundry and dump station on the main road.”
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and layers, as nights can get chilly. A visitor at Iron Creek Campground noted, “Even in the summer, nights drop into the 30s.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Salmon River Campground mentions, “Each site varies in length. We would fit in many of them in our 26' Class C but larger rigs may have a problem.”
  • Look for Amenities: Choose campgrounds with water and dump stations. One camper at North Fork Campground appreciated, “There were garbage dumpsters and pit toilet bathrooms and water spigots throughout.”
  • Be Prepared for Dust: Some campgrounds can be dusty, especially during busy seasons. A visitor at Stanley Lake Campground mentioned, “There is constant traffic from site seekers and continual dusting because of it.”

Camping near Clayton, Idaho, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Clayton, ID is Winged Fork Pl Dispersed with a 3.3-star rating from 4 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 35 dispersed camping locations near Clayton, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.