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janelle H.
Scout
ScoutRose Lake
Rose Lake Boat Launch
Free camping for up to three days. They have an open field above boat launch and a small parking lot.vault toilets. No garbage can. Please observe leave no trace practices.
Dispersed Camping near Cocolalla, ID
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
The northern Idaho landscape surrounding Cocolalla offers predominantly dispersed camping options within an hour's drive. Sites like Pack River Dispersed and Clark Fork Drift Yard provide primitive camping experiences along waterways, while Rose Lake and Bull Run Access areas offer more accessible options for those seeking quick setup locations. Most camping in this region falls under Forest Service or Idaho Fish and Wildlife management, with minimal developed facilities but abundant natural settings. The terrain varies from lakeside flats to forested mountain roads, creating diverse camping environments for both tent and RV users.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many sites requiring travel on gravel or dirt roads. As one camper noted about Cooks Lake, "The road to get there was approximately six miles of gravel winding single lane road, but so worth the drive for the beautiful shaded sites and open lakeview sites." Summer brings mosquitoes and occasional crowding at waterfront locations, while spring access may be limited by snowmelt and mud. Many dispersed sites enforce a 3-day maximum stay limit, particularly those managed by Idaho Fish and Wildlife. Bear activity necessitates proper food storage throughout the region, especially at higher elevations.
Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with fishing opportunities being a major draw. The North Fork Coeur d'Alene River area earns praise for its fly fishing access, with one visitor noting, "The fish were jumping like crazy the night I stayed!" Privacy levels vary considerably between sites, with some campers reporting excellent seclusion while others mention proximity to roads or neighboring homes. Basic amenities like vault toilets exist at some locations but are inconsistently maintained. Several sites serve well as overnight stops rather than extended stays, with Rose Lake described as "a perfect quick stop" by multiple reviewers. Wildlife sightings, including deer, are common at many campsites throughout the region.
Best Dispersed Campgrounds near Cocolalla (23)
1. Clark Fork Drift Yard
"It’s close to get back on HWY, there is noise but not horrible. Only 2 other campers when we came through but there’s a few open sections to have some space in between. Porta potty is well kept."
"There is a train near by, but we really didn’t notice the noise."
2. Clark Fork River Driftyard
"There are no facilities, but there is a porta-potty available (and it wasn’t terrible). This is a pack it in, pack it out area, so no trash cans or dumpsters available!"
3. Rose Lake
"Free camping for up to three days. They have an open field above boat launch and a small parking lot.vault toilets. No garbage can. Please observe leave no trace practices."
"Great elevated views of Rose Lake through the trees at the boat ramp. Several fishermen loading up after a day on the lake. A little noisy, but not distracting."
4. priest lake dispersed camping
"Was a bit challenging to find at first but once we found the right turn off it was simple."
"Can be accessed through the boat launching ramp that’s a bit ahead on the road. There are also several different off road paths that lead the some great camping spots in the area."
5. Cooks Lake
"Cute little dispersed campground approx 6 sites. At least 2 of them are good for me trailer although I wouldn't try if you're not experienced with towing."
"Swimming/small boat access is through the main campground."
6. copper mountain rd dispersed
"Close to the highway so a little bit of noise from the interstate. Fire ring and that’s it."
"Very uneven but I found a spot close to even"
7. Pack River Dispersed Site
"There are several dispersed sites up here along Pack River. Good for horses, camping and solitude."
8. Hanks Meadow
"Have to ford Creek to access. Just one party there on memorial weekend. All the campsites on the way up here were very crowded."
9. Bull Run Access Dispersed
"Lots of spaces and places to turn around. After crossing the bike path, take the first right onto the dirt road at the sportsmans access sign (parallel to the small paved parking lot.)"
"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."
10. Lakes Divide Road
Drive Time
- 30 min from Coeur d'Alene, ID
- 59 min from Spokane, WA
- 2 hrs 25 min from Lewiston, ID
- 2 hrs 56 min from Missoula, MT
Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Cocolalla, ID
42 Photos of 23 Cocolalla Campgrounds
Connie H.
Clark Fork River Driftyard
Emilee B.
Clark Fork Drift Yard
Andrea R.
Marshall Lake - CLOSED
Dee 🥰.
priest lake dispersed camping
Jennifer R.
Cooks Lake
Joe B.
Cee Cee Ah Creek
Jason S.
Beehive Lake Dispersed
Jess G.
Rose Lake
Kevin K.
North Fork Coeur D'Alene River
Snake P.
Bull Run Access Dispersed
Kevin C.
Kismet Creek Camping
Arielle W.
Engle Lake Dispersed Camping
Dispersed Camping Reviews near Cocolalla, ID
56 Reviews of 23 Cocolalla Campgrounds
Jennifer R.
GuideCooks Lake
Great quiet place
Cute little dispersed campground approx 6 sites. At least 2 of them are good for me trailer although I wouldn't try if you're not experienced with towing. The road to get there was approx six miles of gravel winding single lane road. But so worth the drive for the beautiful shaded sites and the open Lakeview sites. Not alot of traffic comes through during the week. Has one vault toilet that was pretty clean but bring your own tp. Also it is bear county so be sure to bring bear proof containers although it was so hot when we went that the wildlife was hiding out...lol
Arielle W.GuideEngle Lake Dispersed Camping
Great introduction to backpacking, beautiful location
This was my first ever backpacking experience and was a great introduction for me. We did the 3.5-mile trail. It was challenging and encouraging. My dog loved it too, and she's a larger breed! I would recommend this trek for anyone who is wanting to learn and practice backpacking skills. There are a few cleared areas for dispersed camping at the lake and a few other locations along the 3.5-mile trail and the 11-mile trail to Engle Lake. It is mostly uphill along both trails, though, so be mindful of that when considering equipment and weight. It is a gorgeous spot and is close to the Engle Peak summit with 360-degree views of the Cabinet Mountains. When we were here, there were a lot of Elk and Moose foot-traffic. They probably won't bother you. Just be aware of them and store your food properly. There have been grizzly bears spotted here, but not that frequently, apparently. Nonetheless, bring a bear canister and place it 100-300 feet from your tent. Enjoy the preserved and lightly trafficked gem! And as always, leave no trace and follow COVID-19 and social distancing guidelines :)
Connie H.
RangerClark Fork River Driftyard
Great place for an overnight or a couple days!
We found this spot to be great for an overnight stop. It was a little out of our way… but you can’t beat a free spot with a great view! Camping limit is 3 days. There are no facilities, but there is a porta-potty available (and it wasn’t terrible). This is a pack it in, pack it out area, so no trash cans or dumpsters available! There are small fire rings scattered throughout the area. It was a pretty quiet spot, other than the trains going by, but that didn’t bother us at all. There was one other camper set up when we arrived around 7:00 PM, and a couple others showed up after us. The boat ramp had a lot of visitors in the early morning and you could hear gunshots in the distance from others hunting, which also didn’t bother us at all. Overall, we thought this was a pretty great find!
- NNaomi C.
TravelerNorth Fork Chewelah Creek
Very refreshing and beautiful!
First time taking the godson camping and this was the perfect spot. The godson's mom told me she went to this area when she was young and then I saw it here on The Dyrt. At first I entered the coordinates listed on the page and it took me to the opposite entrance to Colville National Forest - there are no places to camp on that side due to the steep drop. Make sure you follow the written directions - just follow Sand Canyon all the way out and it will take you to the proper entrance to Colville National Forest. There are a few different pull-offs to camp sites. The one we stayed at was a bit further down the rock road. It is a loop off the main road and there are several camp sites along the creek. There is also a vault toilet - very clean - in this area. The godson loved it - he even played in the freezing cold water. I enjoyed the peace and quiet!
Kaitlin K.GuideBull Run Access Dispersed
Buggy but Beautiful
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. After crossing the bike path, take the first right onto the dirt road at the sportsmans access sign (parallel to the small paved parking lot.) Like another said, the best spot is past the first circular area. Keep going down the road and you’ll see a big shady area in the trees. (You can go further along to two more sites more suited for smaller pop-up campers, tents, or vans.) Close to the water so of course, there were some bugs: lots of bees and mosquitoes.
- RRae F.Guide
North Fork Chewelah Creek
Large rig approved - Private creek access
I had a great time here with my huskies and my cat. I updated the location here on The Dyrt app. The exact address is 3399 Sand Canyon Rd, Chewelah, WA. There are at least 10 dispersed fire rings. Many of the sites have direct access to the creek. There are multiple trails that go up and down both sides of the creek and many logs that have fallen over it so you can walk across to the other side. The entire creek is fully shaded by trees and doesn’t get much sun. It only gets to about knee-deep in some parts - it’s July right now. People use this area for snow activities in the winter. There are many large areas with hard packed dirt that are relatively level and good for big rigs. There is one pit toilet bathroom that I can see and a few picnic tables. This is an active logging road right now so trucks go by every hour or so. There is definitely wildlife out here. Be cautious for bears and other large predators. I have seen wild turkeys, squirrels, tons of different birds, butterflies, and something large ran behind our campsite last night. There is plenty of shade and also plenty of open areas for setting up solar panels with all day sun. There is no cell service up here, but Starlink works great. The creek is beautiful and clear and cold. So refreshing and if you really needed to drink it, you probably could. I have not seen any hiking trails per se, however, you could walk up and down the logging roads and explore the forest line pretty easily in many parts. If you go up the logging road to the right, there is an old mine that you can access. There seems to be little pathways spread out randomly through the forest as you continue down the road. This is the perfect spot for boondocking, unless you’re worried about cell service. I’ve been able to leave my dogs off leash and they are so happy to run free through the creek and around the fields and through the forest. This place really does have so much to offer. We’re here by ourselves right now, so we have the luxury of privacy and perfect quietness to enjoy the sound of the creek and the bugs and the birds.
- KKim A.Guide
Bull Run Dispersed Camping
Bull Run
Lovely spot. The sound of waterfowl are so peaceful. Excellant fishing spot if you have the appropriate license. Easy access to most of it in a car/van. Crushed gravel road with a few watery potholes. Right off the Cour de lain trail which is asphat paved so great spot for bike rides, walks, skateboard is your pebble aware 😂🛹. 3 days camping only allowed. Within site of some homes so wear clothes 😂 From the trail head take the little road with a sign that says "sportsmans access". i did not drive over to the wooded side as theres one spot thats a little iffy for my low vlearance van. More shade and privacy over there. This is a great spot for solar panels.
Nancy R.GuideMarshall Lake - CLOSED
Older and Run Down
Older private campground with power for $40. There is a dump at an additional cost of $10. Some sites are dry camping only. Lake access, but campground is in treed meadow. Sites are not clearly defined. We were here on Wednesday and only ones here other than permanent trailers. Showers are $2 and you get key from camp attendant, Deb. Horse shoe pits and volleyball available.
Guide to Cocolalla
Several dispersed camping areas are available within driving distance of Cocolalla, Idaho along the shores of lakes and rivers. Clark Fork River Driftyard offers free camping with a 3-day stay limit and accommodates both drive-in and boat-in access. The site features primitive conditions with a porta-potty but no other facilities, scattered fire rings, and boat launching access. According to one visitor, "It was a little out of our way but you can't beat a free spot with a great view." Train noise and morning boat traffic are common.
Pack River Dispersed Site, located north of Cocolalla, provides free primitive camping along the Pack River with drive-in and walk-in access for tent camping. The area permits fires, allows alcohol and pets, but offers no amenities. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "There are several dispersed sites up here along Pack River. Good for horses, camping and solitude." Other nearby options include copper mountain rd dispersed camping with mountain views and priest lake dispersed camping with secluded riverside spots accessible via boat launching ramps or off-road paths.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the fishing regulations at Lake Cocolalla for campers?
What are the fishing regulations at Lake Cocolalla for campers?
Lake Cocolalla follows Idaho Fish and Game regulations with a valid Idaho fishing license required for anyone 14 years and older. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, and also contains bass, perch, and northern pike. General Idaho fishing rules apply with specific seasonal restrictions and catch limits varying by species. For comparison of fishing experiences, Rose Lake nearby offers similar fishing opportunities with an accessible dock. Always check the current Idaho Fish and Game regulations before your trip as rules may change seasonally and special regulations may apply to certain fish species.
Where are the best dispersed camping spots around Lake Cocolalla in Idaho?
Where are the best dispersed camping spots around Lake Cocolalla in Idaho?
While Lake Cocolalla itself has limited dispersed options, nearby Bull Run Access Dispersed offers excellent spots with easy access for various rig sizes. The area features several secluded campsites among trees, including a particularly private spot just off the narrow road with water on both sides. For those willing to venture slightly farther, North Fork Coeur D'Alene River provides additional dispersed camping opportunities in the region. Look for established fire rings to identify the best spots, and remember to practice Leave No Trace principles.
When is the best season for dispersed camping at Lake Cocolalla?
When is the best season for dispersed camping at Lake Cocolalla?
The prime season for dispersed camping at Lake Cocolalla runs from late May through September when weather conditions are most favorable. Similar to patterns at Beehive Lake Dispersed, summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, while early fall brings spectacular foliage with fewer crowds. Spring camping (April-May) can be rewarding but prepare for muddy conditions and potential access issues on unpaved roads. Winter camping is possible but challenging due to snow and freezing temperatures. Always check road conditions before heading out, especially in shoulder seasons when weather can be unpredictable.
Is dispersed camping free at Lake Cocolalla?
Is dispersed camping free at Lake Cocolalla?
Yes, dispersed camping around Lake Cocolalla is generally free, though specific regulations may apply. Similar to Engle Lake Dispersed Camping and Cooks Lake, most dispersed sites in national forests allow free camping with typical stay limits of 14 days within a 30-day period. No facilities or hookups are provided at dispersed sites, so campers should come prepared with water and waste disposal plans. Always check with the local ranger district for any recent changes to dispersed camping policies or seasonal fire restrictions.
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