Dispersed camping near Howe, Idaho includes primitive sites scattered throughout the high desert terrain of central Idaho, with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 feet. The surrounding Lost River Range features some of Idaho's highest peaks, including 12,662-foot Mount Borah. Most sites experience wide temperature fluctuations with hot summer days dropping to cold nights, even in July and August.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Near Bear Creek Dispersed Campground, visitors can explore multiple trail systems. "We enjoyed the nearby creek and beautiful wildflowers that were blooming," notes Jamie M., highlighting the seasonal flora.
Fishing access: Mackay Reservoir offers productive angling opportunities for rainbow trout and kokanee salmon. A camper at Mackay Reservoir Fishing Access mentions, "Spent the night. Quiet and secluded. 2 other vehicles overnight, plenty of space."
Volcanic exploration: The lava fields near Howe provide unique geological features to explore. "Stayed at the trailhead parking lot boondocking... with easy access to the lava field (Hells Half Acre) hiking trails," reports Abner H. about his stay at Lava Hiking Trailhead.
What campers like
Mountain views: The Lost River Range dominates the horizon at many camping spots. One camper at West Dubois Pulloff describes, "See the Tetons to the east at sunrise, it's beautiful."
River proximity: Access to flowing water enhances many sites. At Birch Creek Camp, Nichole D. notes, "Had LOTS of spots right next to the river. Some close to bathrooms. Water available at north entrance."
Peaceful settings: The remote nature of dispersed camping near Howe offers remarkable quiet. Fred S. comments about BLM Skull Canyon Road Dispersed, "Very peaceful, can hardly hear road noise from highway. The only vehicle that drove by was a national forest truck."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require caution and appropriate vehicles. At BLM Skull Canyon Road Dispersed, Fred S. warns, "Rough narrow rocky track to the site from the highway; recommend high clearance. High humps on this track."
14-day limits: Standard regulations limit stays to two weeks at all dispersed sites in the region. Pack out all trash.
Seasonal mosquitoes: Insects can be problematic, particularly near water sources. A camper at Mackay Reservoir notes, "Mosquito swarms! Beware!"
Variable facilities: Some rest areas permit overnight stays with basic amenities. Richard H. explains that Centennial Rest Area "allows for overnight parking, up to 16 hours. There are toilets and some picnic tables."
Tips for camping with families
Vault toilet locations: With children, prioritizing sites with facilities helps. At Big Lost River Dispersed, Christopher E. notes, "Pit toilets, 10 day max stay right on Big Lost River, fishing might be good? No garbage, water."
Accessible options: Some sites accommodate mobility needs. Tom P. at Big Lost River Dispersed mentions, "I am just thrilled with the campsites and cleanliness of the pit toilets and nearby stream and fishing."
Distance from highways: For family safety, some sites offer good separation from traffic. James W. describes Birch Creek Camp as a "Nice and quiet middle of nowhere spot for a middle of nowhere drive."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at most sites. A reviewer noted at BLM Skull Canyon Road, "Some leveling may be required. Tent camping possible."
Cell service details: Connectivity varies significantly by location. Abner H. provides specific information: "AT&T has 2 bars of LTE and very slow data with a 243ms ping time and a 10Mbps download once it eventually started. T-Mobile has 3 bars and my hotspot was able to achieve 18.85Mbps download."
Space considerations: Some areas accommodate larger rigs better than others. Gabriel M. reports about Mackay Reservoir Fishing Access: "Dirt road with loose gravel but my AWD suv had no problem towing my 30ft camper up and down to the waters edge."
