Dispersed camping near Hamer, Idaho offers opportunities for overnight stays at free sites on public lands with minimal facilities. Elevations around Hamer range from approximately 4,800 to 5,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions with summer temperatures often reaching the 80s and winter lows frequently below freezing. Access to many dispersed sites requires high-clearance vehicles, especially during spring when snowmelt creates muddy conditions.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several campsites near Hamer provide direct access to fishing spots. At Warm Slough, campers can find "Great place to fish, kayak, or float the river" with some sites offering picnic tables alongside Henry's Fork of the Snake River. The area attracts anglers year-round.
Disc golf course: Beaver Dick Park Campground features a "Disk golf! Excellent short course" according to one reviewer. This activity provides an alternative recreation option when water levels are high, as "Many of the hiking trails are currently flooded due to high water" during certain seasons.
Water recreation: Swimming and paddling options exist at several locations. The small lake at Wakeside Lake RV Park is "good for boating, or if you have a paddle board that would be fun." Campers can also wade in portions of the Snake River where designated.
What campers like
Affordable pricing: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the free sites at Warm Slough and the reasonable rates elsewhere. As one camper noted about Beaver Dick Park Campground, it's "completely worth ten a night. Quiet and toilets. 6 miles to grocery store."
Lake access: Jefferson County Lake receives high marks for its "clear, clean lake" with "concrete pads with electricity and water." Visitors appreciate that "our site had running water and a nearby creek" making it accessible for families.
Shade coverage: During hot summer days, shade becomes a priority. At Wakeside Lake RV Park, "The trees in most sites are very mature and great for shade," and at Beaver Dick Park Campground, sites feature "trees between most campsites" providing privacy while still feeling safe.
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Some areas have limited camping windows. At Warm Slough, camping is "only allowed Oct 1 to Jan 31. 10 days max" making it important to verify current regulations before arrival.
Navigation challenges: Finding some sites can be difficult. One camper at Warm Slough reported: "This place was hard to find - I almost gave up. The GPS directions and coordinates on this app are both wrong. Take Warm Slough Rd off 4000 N. Ignore the no trespassing signs- they refer to the land on either side of the road."
Maintenance issues: Facility upkeep varies across sites. A visitor to Warm Slough noted "As many free sites are it hasn't been maintained or respected by those who use it. There's trash all over and broken glass in the pit toilet." Similarly, at West Dubois Pulloff on Route 22, expect "Good option for the night the bit windy and not much protection."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. A visitor to Beaver Dick Park Campground shared: "It includes a playground and picnic areas that I'm sure would be great for families!" Another camper confirmed "We enjoy taking our young family to this campground. It's well manicured, and there is plenty of space."
Water play options: Children particularly enjoy the swimming areas. At Jefferson County Lake, "Kids loved playing in the lake. I like the paved trail that goes around the lake for jogging and cycling." Some sites offer both wading areas and fishing access.
Safety considerations: Balance between privacy and security matters for families. One camper described Beaver Dick Park Campground as "the perfect place to camp if you are looking for a campground that feels safe (close to other campers) while still having your privacy (trees between most campsites)."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RVers should check specific hookup options before arrival. At Egin Lakes, you'll find "Individual campsites with electrical hookups. Very accommodating." Another visitor noted they offer "Dump station on site. Water hookups on site. (Not in individual sites)."
Site spacing: RV parks in the area offer varying degrees of separation between units. At Yellowstone Lakeside RV Park, campers note that "All of the pull-through sites, existing and expansion, are oriented such that every other pair pull through in opposite directions and share utilities, which results in slide-outs only being a few feet apart in most cases."
Level sites: Most RV parks provide relatively level parking. Egin Lakes has "Decent campground with big sites (plenty for a big motor home and trailer)," while Jefferson County Lake features "level concrete pads with electricity and water."
