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Best Dispersed Camping near Craters of the Moon National Monument

47 Reviews

Dispersed camping options near Craters of the Moon National Monument provide alternatives when the monument's campground is full. Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed offers free creekside camping with basic amenities including vault toilets, picnic tables with shade structures, and established fire rings. Silver Creek West Access Area, located off Highway 20, features level gravel parking areas with sufficient distance from road noise. According to reviews, visitors occasionally spot wildlife including moose and mule deer at these locations.

Most dispersed sites in this region have no potable water or trash service. Campers must pack out all waste and bring sufficient water supplies. Several campers noted that Silver Creek Public Access has "at least two pit toilets, one at a spot with two picnic tables, each has a great shade, fire pit, and a place for a camp stove." Fire restrictions are common during summer months; check current regulations before planning to have a campfire.

Cell service varies significantly between locations. Silver Creek Public Access maintains decent coverage for both AT&T and Verizon users. Big Lost River Dispersed Camping offers approximately 15 sites with pit toilets and a 10-day maximum stay limit. The access roads to many sites consist of gravel or dirt surfaces that may become washboarded or rutted. Standard passenger vehicles can access most areas, though some sites require high-clearance vehicles.

Temperature extremes are common in this high desert environment. Summer days can be intensely hot with limited natural shade at many sites. Vault toilets are available at most locations but may not be regularly serviced. Fishing opportunities exist at Silver Creek and Big Lost River, with brown trout confirmed in Silver Creek. The camping season generally runs from April through November, with some sites closing during winter months due to snow and access limitations.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Craters of the Moon National Monument (19)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Craters of the Moon National Monument

34 Photos of 19 Craters of the Moon National Monument Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Craters of the Moon National Monument

47 Reviews of 19 Craters of the Moon National Monument Campgrounds

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 2, 2021

    Lake Creek Rd Dispersed

    Open Spaces and Free

    This forest service land is a quick drive down Lake Creek Rd from Hwy 75 just past the town of Ketchum in the Sawtooth National Forest. You'll drive through a residential area so mind your speed as there are kids around and lots of cars parked that were crowding into the road a bit as there were construction workers building one of the massive houses along this road. 

    The paved road comes to an end with a large parking or turn around area then turns to a very washboarded dirt/gravel road that runs behind people’s houses so maybe drive a bit slower to keep the dust down until you pass that point. 

    There are multiple areas that are large and mostly flat that pull off the side of this main dirt road. The views are amazing and it seemed quiet. We did not stay here as it was too hot at the time, but we would have because you have nice hiking or biking opportunities here. The pullout spaces are large enough for a good sized rig, we had plenty of space for our 26’ class C. A couple of the sites had stone fire pits but fire restrictions are in effect so no fires at this time.  There are plenty of sites here and they were almost all free when we visited in September.

    There are no amenities here. No garbage or water. You are fully in the sun with no shade. 

    The camping limit is 3 days only. There is one garbage can at near the large turn around/parking area before the road turns to dirt but it was small so just take your trash with you. 

    Good ATT and Verizon cell reception.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • Fred S.The Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 30, 2021

    Cougar Dispersed Camping Area

    Peaceful Near a Flowing River

    We came here second week of May just after the rangers opened FR-146. We travelled all the way to the end where there is a trailer turn-around. All sites looked nice and we counted 12 designated dispersed sites, #1 was the furthest in. We ended up in 2C(the furthest in of three sites of area #2. The site was next to the river. It was 4.5 miles in on the dirt road and our closest neighbor was back up the road 3.5 miles in camp Murdock, roughly a twenty minute drive. The only animals we saw were ground squirrels. It was so peaceful and a wonderful experience.

  • Kathryn D.
    Aug. 10, 2024

    Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed

    Creekside!

    Delightful creekside free campsites! Turn at the BLM sign and take a little gravel road to several free creekside spots! There are at least two pit toilets, one at a spot with two picnic tables, each has a great shade, fire pit, and a place for a camp stove! One has a flat raised gravel spot for a tent, which was good because we actually saw a couple mice. The second pit toilet was further down the road at a more separated spot, it looked like it was ADA accessible and also had a picnic table, etc. Close enough to Carey to get gas/ice. Only giving it 4 stars because of the mice (pack out your own trash guys! It isn’t hard!) and the complete lack of trees, the covers over the picnic tables did proved shade, but it still got crazy hot.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 25, 2025

    Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed

    Gorgeous Spot on the River

    Great spots near a slow moving river with bathrooms and shade and picnic tables. The best dispersed camping I have ever found! No trash, so pack it out, and the toilets are buggy, but the scenery and privacy is worth it. You get in far enough and get hidden by sage brush!

  • Megan H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 26, 2021

    Corral Creek Canyon Dispersed

    Simple and basic, close to town

    Various pull out sites off a gravel road (no 4x4 required). No facilities. Close to town, a few pretty sites with some shade.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 30, 2025

    Lake Creek Rd Dispersed

    Easy stay right outside of Ketchum

    Visited in August 2024

    Driving past mega mansions will eventually lead you to a dirt road stretching into an open valley. Went during late summer, so it was fairly dusty, and the passing cars would stir it up a lot. Not a lot of protection from the road, but traffic quieted down pretty quickly after sunset. Was full by about 6pm on a Friday evening. Great views with cell service as well!

  • bThe Dyrt PRO User
    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.

Guide to Craters of the Moon National Monument

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Craters of the Moon National Monument in Idaho, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of free camping options, perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Craters of the Moon National Monument, Idaho

  • Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed provides delightful creekside spots with picnic tables and fire pits, making it an ideal location for a peaceful retreat.
  • At Silver Creek West Access Area, you can enjoy a quiet stay with minimal road noise and access to pit toilets, ensuring a comfortable experience while you explore the surrounding beauty.
  • Big Lost River Dispersed offers incredible views and fishing access, making it a great choice for those looking to combine camping with outdoor activities.

Scenic spots for dispersed campers

  • Bear Creek Dispersed Campground is nestled in a stunning canyon filled with wildflowers, providing a picturesque backdrop for your camping experience.
  • Corral Creek Canyon Dispersed features quiet, private campsites close to Sun Valley, perfect for those who want to enjoy both nature and nearby amenities.
  • Antelope Creek offers secluded spots right next to the creek, allowing for a serene atmosphere and plenty of space for relaxation.

Fishing and outdoor activities for dispersed campers

  • Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed is not only great for camping but also offers excellent fishing opportunities, with reviews highlighting the chance to catch brown trout.
  • Big Lost River Dispersed is known for its fishing potential, making it a popular choice for anglers looking to enjoy a few days by the water.
  • At Bear Creek Dispersed Campground, you can explore nearby trails and enjoy the beauty of the creek while taking in the vibrant wildflowers that bloom in the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is free camping available at Craters of the Moon National Monument?

There is no free camping within Craters of the Moon National Monument itself, as the monument's Lava Flow Campground requires fees. However, free dispersed camping options exist nearby on public lands. Silver Creek West Access Area offers free camping with vault toilets and flat ground, making it a popular alternative when monument campsites are unavailable. Big Lost River Dispersed provides another free option in the vicinity. When dispersed camping near the monument, remember these are primitive sites with minimal or no facilities, and you'll need to pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles. Stay limits typically range from 3-16 days depending on the specific location.

When is the best time of year for dispersed camping at Craters of the Moon?

Late spring through early fall (May to September) offers the best conditions for dispersed camping near Craters of the Moon. Cougar Dispersed Camping Area becomes accessible when rangers open forest roads in mid-May, providing access to numerous designated dispersed sites. Corral Creek Designated Dispersed is suitable through September, with large level areas accommodating multiple camping setups. Summer brings warm days but cool nights due to the elevation, while late fall brings rapidly cooling temperatures. Winter camping is challenging due to snow-covered roads and freezing conditions. The area can be dusty in late summer, and afternoon thunderstorms are possible. Always check road conditions and weather forecasts before your trip regardless of season.

What facilities are available for dispersed camping at Craters of the Moon?

Dispersed camping near Craters of the Moon offers varying levels of facilities depending on the location. Lake Creek Rd Dispersed provides sites along a stream with access to bathrooms further up the road where there's a small parking lot. Centennial Rest Area Hwy 93 offers basic facilities including toilets and picnic tables with a 16-hour maximum stay. Most dispersed sites have primitive fire rings but no hookups, potable water, or trash service. Vault toilets are available at select locations, but generally, you should be prepared with your own water supply, waste disposal plan, and portable toilet setup. Cell service is limited in most areas, so download maps beforehand and be prepared for self-sufficient camping.

Where can I find dispersed camping near Craters of the Moon National Monument?

Several dispersed camping options exist near Craters of the Moon National Monument. Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed offers creekside spots with picnic tables and shade, making it an excellent alternative when the monument's campground is full. Antelope Creek provides another option close to town with multiple access points, though some spots have steep approaches from the main road. Both locations are on public lands and allow for free camping. Other options include BLM land surrounding the monument and national forest areas within driving distance. Most dispersed sites in this region require you to follow Leave No Trace principles and may have stay limits between 3-16 days depending on the specific location.

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