Dispersed camping areas serve as the main option for equestrians visiting Craters of the Moon National Monument in Idaho. The terrain around this volcanic landscape presents unique challenges for horse owners, with limited water access and mostly open, exposed camping sites. Seasonal considerations affect accessibility, with spring and fall offering the most moderate temperatures for horse camping in this high desert environment.
What to do
Trail riding at higher elevations: The areas around Mackay Reservoir Access Area provide cooler riding conditions during summer months. "Great place by lake...some shade available nice campground!" notes Doug E. about the Mackay Reservoir Access Area, which serves as a good base camp for accessing higher elevation trails.
Creek access for horses: Lake Creek Road offers sites with natural water sources. As Jeremiah C. mentions about Lake Creek Rd Dispersed, "The creek is perfect for dogs and kids to wade in. No bugs, clean, quiet and level for the camper. There's a small lake further down to fish."
Multi-day riding trips: For longer equestrian adventures, utilize the extended stay options. "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," explains Beth about Lake Creek Road Dispersed camping.
What campers like
Affordable options near attractions: Free and low-cost sites make multi-day horse camping economical. At Honeys Park, Rocio C. reports, "The owner of the property, Scar, is very generous in offering his property for free to stay at to complete strangers. This is dry camping, no water or sewer. There's a dump station with water close by off the main highway."
Privacy between sites: The dispersed camping areas offer space between neighbors, important for those traveling with horses. As one camper notes about Lake Creek Road Dispersed, "Each site is a good distance apart, we never heard our neighbors."
Water features: Streams and ponds provide natural water sources for horses. At Murdock Creek Dispersed, Chad L. appreciated "a great location near moving water. The sound of water created a very serene environment for rest."
What you should know
Access limitations: Many roads become challenging for larger horse trailers. Bethany W. advises about Lake Creek Road: "We tow a Nissan Altima and it had no problems driving the unpaved road down to the first pond. There's a second pond (go left at the Y) but we didn't travel that way."
Seasonal regulations: Fire restrictions frequently impact camping options. A camper at Lake Creek Road mentions, "A couple of the sites had stone fire pits but fire restrictions are in effect so no fires at this time."
Limited amenities: Bring all necessary supplies for your horses. "No trash, water, or RV dump here but you can find one ~20 min away," reports Bethany W. about Lake Creek Road Dispersed.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: The volcanic landscape offers unique learning experiences about geology. Near Mackay Reservoir, Always C. shares, "Would rate this a 10 if I could!" noting the combination of natural features and basic amenities that appeal to families.
Wildlife viewing areas: Early mornings provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. Josh T. mentions Murdock Creek offers a "Quiet with good chance at wildlife sightings."
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require layered clothing. Ladd A. notes about Lake Creek Road, "Was June 22 2025 and we got a little bit of snow overnight," highlighting the need for cold-weather gear even in summer.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks for uneven terrain. Sam S. advises about Lake Creek Road Dispersed: "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."
Site selection for horse trailers: Arrive early to secure suitable spots. "Lots of room for big rigs. Probably 20 or so spots all up the road they were all full buy the evening so come earlier!" recommends Salvy F. about Lake Creek Road Dispersed.
Hookup options: Limited electrical connections exist at select locations. Dan C. notes about Honeys Park, "Dude put in many power stations, wifi etc all on his own and only wants people to act decent to stay. Lots of room."
