Dispersed camping near Grand View, Idaho provides rustic outdoor experiences on public lands throughout the Snake River valley. The area sits at approximately 2,300 feet elevation with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through August. Winter camping remains possible but requires additional preparation as temperatures can drop below freezing, especially in higher elevation sites.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Frank C Jones King Hill Area, campers can use the boat launch for easy river fishing. "Nice view of the river. The only negative was the trains going by at night. Quite loud," notes one visitor who found the spot perfect for a quick overnight fishing trip.
Wildlife photography: Early mornings at Little Camas Reservoir offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "Beautiful scenery, easy drive in for most vehicles and surprisingly good phone service. Had the place all to myself and got some really nice long exposure shots of the night sky," reports one photographer who visited the area.
Mountain hiking: Several campsites provide access to nearby peaks with moderate to strenuous trails. A visitor to Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed mentioned, "There is hiking right across the street. Mt Heinen which is a very strenuous hike. Its over 9 miles (up and back) and over a 3,000 ft gain so be prepared if you try to tackle this summit."
What campers like
Quiet seclusion: Despite proximity to Boise, many primitive camping spots remain relatively undiscovered. "We camped at Irish Point at Arrowhead's designated dispersed camping area. The road around the reservoir is pretty tight, though that doesn't discourage long trailers and toy haulers. Our neighbors were sparse and quiet and we enjoyed the peace of this area," writes a visitor to Irish Point Dispersed Camp Ground.
Lake access: Waterfront camping provides both recreational opportunities and cooling relief during hot summer months. "Simple camp ground not much to it at all really which is kind of nice. It's on the edge of the lake so could potentially have good fishing. Not many trees at all so bring your own wood or stove," notes a Little Camas Reservoir visitor.
Night sky viewing: The remote nature of these sites creates minimal light pollution. "Beautiful scenery, easy drive in for most vehicles and surprisingly good phone service. Had the place all to myself and got some really nice long exposure shots of the night sky," reports a camper who visited Little Camas Reservoir.
What you should know
Water level fluctuations: Reservoir levels change dramatically by season, affecting both recreation and site selection. A Little Camas visitor observed, "Fairly easy access off US 20. There is open grazing so we did have cattle close to our campsite by morning. Tons of bugs but not many mosquitoes."
Road condition challenges: Many sites require driving on unpaved roads that deteriorate during wet weather. At Morley Nelson Snake River Dispersed Campsites, a camper warns, "We parked right beside the river, and it was absolutely gorgeous. However, I don't recommend taking a car on this road. It's definitely an ATV road as it's very rough."
Limited services: Most dispersed camping areas lack basic amenities. "No facilities available at all, which is fine by me! Unfortunately people seem to leave trash around. There was a fire pit which I appreciated but greasy tends in the pit," notes one Little Camas Reservoir camper.
Seasonal closures: Winter access becomes difficult or impossible at some locations. A Little Camas visitor reported, "In the winter it is not plowed, so you can't access it. Found out the hard way, lol."
Tips for camping with families
Vault toilet locations: Some primitive camping areas include basic sanitation facilities. A visitor to Boise National Forest Willow Creek Campground noted, "Had a bathroom for the entire campground (maybe 9 spots), picnic table, fire pit with grill, small steel table. There was a water pump but it was locked."
Swimming spots: Several areas feature gradual entry points into water bodies, though supervision remains essential. An Arrowrock Reservoir visitor recommends, "If you want lake access this place is magical. There are many group sites and single sites. Many sites own a corner turn. Also your entire campsite will be visible to every car passing."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for wildlife interactions, especially with range cattle. A Little Camas visitor observed, "There are vault toilets in two locations. No other facilities. Very few people. Where we stayed overnight, we didn't see anyone else. Lots of gnat-type flying bugs. Almost no mosquitos. Great views of the mountains around the lake and very quiet."
Tips from RVers
Ground conditions: Soft terrain presents challenges for larger vehicles. According to one Arrowrock Reservoir camper, "Beware of the dune sand, you might get stuck."
Turnaround space: Limited maneuvering areas create difficulties for larger RVs. A visitor to Frank C Jones King Hill Area cautions, "My camper is 32' long. There is a small turnaround on the left fork. The dirt is 'moon dust' and got stuck. Turn right there is a paved turn around area."
Road clearance requirements: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. Irish Point Dispersed Camp Ground visitors advised, "About an hour off the highway, 7 miles of which are washboard-bumpy gravel roads along the lake cliffside (Had to drive under 10mph those last 7 miles). We were in an AWD sprinter van, and the road conditions definitely put a damper on the night."
