Dispersed camping options near Dover, Idaho range from riverside sites to remote alpine lakes across the Kaniksu National Forest. The area's elevations vary from 2,000 feet along river bottoms to over 7,000 feet at higher lake destinations, creating diverse camping environments. Primitive sites typically follow Forest Service regulations with 14-day stay limits and varying seasonal accessibility depending on snowpack and spring runoff conditions.
What to do
Fishing access points: Pack River Dispersed Site offers direct access to river fishing where campers can wade along gentle banks. One visitor noted that "There are several dispersed sites up here along Pack River. Good for horses, camping and solitude."
Lake swimming: At Beehive Lake Dispersed, hikers can enjoy alpine swimming after a challenging trek in. According to one camper, "The alpine lake at the end of the trail is stunning—clear, pristine water surrounded by rugged mountain scenery. It's the kind of place that feels untouched and pure."
Wildlife observation: The Clark Fork area provides opportunities to spot deer, waterfowl and other riparian species. At the river delta, "The log jam is a good spot to bird watch," according to one visitor who frequented the area.
Boat launching: Multiple dispersed sites offer primitive boat access for kayaking and fishing. The Clark Fork River Driftyard provides "a boat ramp with dock and another without," making it suitable for different watercraft.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Cee Cee Ah Creek in nearby Washington, campers appreciate the spacing. One reviewer mentioned, "Nearby campsites are far enough away that you have plenty of privacy. There is a creek that runs through this area, which is great for cooling off on hot days."
Natural water features: Many dispersed camping areas include creeks, rivers or lakes. At Priest Lake dispersed camping, one visitor found it to be a "Very nice and secluded area right on the river bed. Can be accessed through the boat launching ramp that's a bit ahead on the road."
Huckleberry picking: Seasonal foraging opportunities exist at higher elevations near Beehive Lake. During summer months, "If you visit during the right season, you'll find huckleberries everywhere, which is a sweet bonus after the tough hike in."
Free camping options: Most dispersed sites around Dover offer no-cost camping with basic fire rings. Pack River Dispersed Site provides "A few sites available along this road... On the river and very peaceful."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require high clearance vehicles. One Pack River camper warned of "Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites."
Limited facilities: Most areas lack developed amenities. At 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!"
Variable site conditions: Some locations feature level tent pads while others require adaptation to terrain. At Cooks Lake, one camper reported, "there was one spot that was level enough for a tent…there was 12 inches of beach between the tent and the water!"
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the region. The area surrounding Dover contains both black and grizzly bear habitat, requiring secure food containers and clean camping practices.
Seasonal considerations: Spring flooding affects riverside camping areas. At Cooks Lake, a camper warned to "Beware of mud! Neat little spot that worked good for a last minute place to camp... found myself barely on the edge of lake bottom mud."
Tips for camping with families
Look for shallow water access: Several sites offer kid-friendly water entry points. At Cooks Lake, one family enjoyed that "The water was warm and we swam all day. Bats at night, and the stars!!"
Choose established fire rings: Pre-existing fire pits provide safer cooking areas. Clark Fork River Driftyard has "small fire rings scattered throughout the area" according to a recent visitor.
Consider noise factors: Some sites experience early morning activity. A Cooks Lake camper shared, "We were 'invaded' by groups of fishermen/women/families both mornings pretty early, one was rude, one was quiet."
Pack extra supplies: No services exist near most dispersed sites. Free camping near Dover, Idaho requires complete self-sufficiency with food, water and emergency supplies.
Explore wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids can enjoy seeing smaller animals safely. One Cooks Lake visitor observed "Birds everywhere, woodpeckers in the birch trees and killdeer darting down to the water. Chipmunks and rabbits. Tadpoles and turtles and little water snakes."
Tips from RVers
Scout ahead for clearance: Many forest access roads present challenges for trailers. At Beehives Lakes, one RVer noted there's an "Awesome single site adjacent to the Beehive Lakes trailhead parking lot" suitable for smaller rigs.
Consider boat-in camping alternatives: Some locations allow RVs near boat launches. One Clark Fork River Driftyard visitor mentioned it was "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!"
Know trailer limitations: Few dispersed sites accommodate large RVs. At Cooks Lake, a camper advised "At least 2 of them are good for my trailer although I wouldn't try if you're not experienced with towing."
Plan for primitive conditions: No hookups exist at dispersed sites around Dover. A Clark Fork River Driftyard visitor candidly described it as "Not much to look at, but free. No amenities."
