Top Free Dispersed Camping near Elk City, ID

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Elk City, ID (10)


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Elk City

5 Reviews of 10 Elk City Campgrounds


  • Pat F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Ridge Lake Campground
    Aug. 3, 2022

    Rocky Ridge Lake Campground

    Beautiful lake

    There was a cow moose feeding in the lake when we were there. She would stomp around up to her neck in the lake, then eat the plants that would float to the surface.

  • Dexter I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Stanley Hot Springs - Backcountry Dispersed Campsite
    Sep. 28, 2020

    Stanley Hot Springs - Backcountry Dispersed Campsite

    Wilderness camp with a hot springs soak

    If a backpacking trip in to a wilderness area with a hot springs next to your campsite sounds like the perfect trip, then Stanley Hot Springs is for you.  Stanley Hot Springs located in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness is just under a 5 mile hike from the trail head located in the Wilderness Gateway Campground.  The trip in to the hot springs gains about 1500 feet, but the climb is worth it as you get to soak your tired legs after the hike. 

    Plenty of campsites can be found around and near the Hot Springs.  Water can be filtered from the near by creek.  You are backpacking so be prepared to bring out everything you bring in.  You are also in Bear Territory so be prepared to hang your food in a tree and bring bear spray.

    Getting to the hot springs can be a little tricky as their is no bridge over the creek, so you will have to ford the creek, unless you can find a series of log jams to cross on.  Best bet for finding you way is to ask someone hiking out for suggestions on crossing the creek.

    The creek crossing will not be possible in the spring or during high water flows.   We managed an easy crossing over log jams in July, but others a week earlier forded the creek in waist deep water.

    The area was clean during our visit, so please keep it that way.

  • Hannah W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Loon Lake
    Jul. 12, 2020

    Loon Lake

    Amazing views and history!

    This campground is a hike-in area unless you visit via dirt bikes, mountain bikes or horses. It is 4.4 miles to Loon Lake from the Chinook Campground.Chinook is the last place you can get water and use a pit toilet before going on the hike. Follow the Loon Lake Loop trail to get to the lake. It is likely you may be the only person camping there, but you will see people hiking in to visit the plane wreckage of a B-23 Dragon Bomber which crashed on the other side of the lake in 1943. The plane can be difficult to find as you have to bushwack to get to it. I did find a little trail that brought me out, but it is often hard to find. We hiked along the right side of the lake, then bushwacked to the left, forded a creek, and was able to find the plane. I have heard and red that you can find the plane by going around an unmaintained forest service trail on the left side of the lake as well. If you make it this far I encourage you to find the plane and read the informational signs no matter what. The story is incredible! While it is longer to hike back out on the rest of the loop, the trail is completely different than coming in and provides amazing views of the Secesh river. Don't expect any amenities when camping at Loon Lake. This spot is truly for those interested in packing in and packing out what they want to use in a remote setting.

  • Christopher R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Ridge Lake Campground
    Jun. 16, 2018

    Rocky Ridge Lake Campground

    Very secluded mountain lake camp

    Great peaceful mountain lake setting with elk often on the hillside above located on the historic lolo motorway not suitable for low clearance vehicles but it is a beautiful place to go get away



Guide to Elk City

Camping near Elk City, Idaho, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do:

  • Hiking and exploring: The area is rich in trails and scenic views. One camper mentioned, "Awesome place for hikes and hot springs. Also dog friendly everywhere we went," highlighting the great hiking opportunities at Wilderness Gateway.
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds are near rivers and lakes, perfect for fishing. A review from Ohara Bar Campground noted, "There is plenty of room to explore and have a good time," making it a great spot for families who enjoy fishing.
  • River activities: If you're into water sports, the rivers around Knife Edge Campground are ideal for kayaking and rafting. One visitor shared, "This place has huge spaces that will fit your 40 ft RV or just a small tent river access and much more."

What campers like:

  • Secluded sites: Campers appreciate the privacy offered by many sites. A review for Wilderness Gateway stated, "Sites are close but feel secluded with trees and ferns."
  • Clean facilities: Clean restrooms and well-maintained campgrounds are a big plus. One camper at Ohara Bar Campground mentioned, "Bathrooms were nice and clean, easy access to the river."
  • Spacious spots: Many campgrounds provide ample space for tents and RVs. A visitor at Knife Edge Campground noted, "The campground is sheltered with tall fir, cedar and deciduous growth."

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lolo Creek Campground, have basic facilities. A review mentioned, "There is no electricity, no services for RVs, and no firewood for sale."
  • Wildlife caution: Be aware of local wildlife. One camper at Ohara Bar Campground advised, "Like much of central Idaho, the wildlife includes black bears and rattlesnakes, so remember to be cautious."
  • Road conditions: Some access roads can be rough. A visitor to Lolo Creek Campground warned, "We would have damaged our trailer for sure!" after experiencing the road conditions.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Spacious areas for kids: Look for campgrounds with room for kids to play. A review for Ohara Bar Campground mentioned, "We easily fit 4 tents and 3 vehicles in the area. Plenty of space for 3 dogs as well."
  • Activities for all ages: Choose a campground that offers various activities. One camper at Wilderness Gateway said, "Lying in the river was refreshing and recharged our inner batteries."
  • Safety first: Always keep an eye on children near water. A visitor at Knife Edge Campground noted, "Saw a black bear (juvenile) on the way in but didn’t see/hear anything else from the bear that night or the next morning."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure the campground can accommodate your RV size. A review for Knife Edge Campground mentioned, "This place has huge spaces that will fit your 40 ft RV or just a small tent."
  • Dump stations: Look for campgrounds with dump stations. One camper at Wilderness Gateway appreciated the "sanitary dump" available on-site.
  • Reservations recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A visitor at Ohara Bar Campground advised, "I recommend reserving a spot ahead of time."

Camping near Elk City, Idaho, provides a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Elk City, ID is Stanley Hot Springs - Backcountry Dispersed Campsite with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 10 dispersed camping locations near Elk City, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.