Dispersed camping near Inkom, Idaho offers access to several free and low-cost sites throughout the Caribou National Forest. The area sits at approximately 4,500 feet elevation with surrounding peaks reaching over 8,000 feet, creating distinct camping microclimates. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with minimal rainfall, though afternoon thunderstorms occur frequently in July and August.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Scout Mountain Campground connects to multiple trail systems suitable for day hikes. "Great hiking and horseback riding trails, quiet, not too crowded," notes Sheri C. in her review of the area.
River activities: Lower Portneuf Campground provides direct water access. "This place is gorgeous! We parked our 34 ft motor home right next to a river waterfall and did some fishing... Paddle boarding, kayaking, and fishing are primo," reports Chelsey M..
Hot springs visits: Lava Hot Springs is within 5-10 minutes walking distance from the Lava Hot Springs West KOA. "The Lava pools are amazing and the town is very charming and walkable options. They have canoeing, rubber tubes, evokes, vespas and four wheelers available," writes Louis L.
ATV trail access: Blackrock Canyon Recreation Site functions as both camping area and ATV trail hub. "There are other trials for ATVs but plenty of nice spots for RVs or tents!" mentions Jessica B. in her review.
What campers like
Natural water features: Goodenough Creek Campground offers creek access with ambient sounds. "We arrived here around 8:30pm after the sun set so we couldn't really see much. Had the doors and windows open all night, wonderful breeze, quiet except sounds of nature. Woke up to an amazing sunrise and sound of the creek," writes Sanjeeta S..
Mountain views: Indian Rocks Dispersed Camping provides panoramic vistas. "It's a decent place to spend the night. The road up although somewhat steep at times can easily be accessed without 4WD. A few nice sites right as you enter with fire pits & picnic tables," states Samuel H.
Proximity to amenities: Several campgrounds offer access to town amenities while maintaining natural settings. "Nice spot in a gravel parking lot surrounded by small mountains with toilets nearby. Park on the right as camping is prohibited on the left," advises Chaz C. about Blackrock Canyon.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at Scout Mountain. "We stayed on site #3, nice and shady, perfect walking distance to clean vault toilets, water spigot not far, and off the road so you feel tucked away," reports Beth B.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several camping areas experience train disruptions. At Lower Portneuf Campground, "the tracks are only about 100' from most of the spots. The real kicker is, because there's a crossing to get into the campground, the trains blast their horn literally right as they pass you," warns Brett T.
Water sources: Natural springs provide drinking water in some areas. "There's a cute little stream that runs below the site as well," mentions Aly D. about Blackrock Canyon Recreation Site.
Road conditions: Access varies significantly between sites. At Indian Rocks Dispersed Camping, "the road into dispersed camping is full of pot holes so go slow with a Class A RV or if you have low clearance. The noise from the freeway is minimal," advises Aaron G.
Seasonal considerations: Most forest service campgrounds operate May through October. Scout Mountain Campground typically opens May 25 and closes October 30, with some variance based on snow conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lava Hot Springs West KOA offers family-oriented facilities. "This campground was always clean. Walking distance to restaurants and local shops. Our riverside campground was wonderful," shares Sam F.
Swimming options: Family-friendly water activities abound near several campgrounds. "With the pool/water slides across the river, and the shuttle stop for tubing the river across the street and down the road. This campground is the perfect place to enjoy all the water offerings during the summer at Lava Hot Springs," explains Samuel N.
Bathroom facilities: Facility quality varies between campgrounds. At Pocatello KOA, "the bathrooms are decent- however one of the showers does not lock, and one of the toilet stalls does not either," notes Katy R.
Wildlife viewing: Campgrounds throughout the area offer wildlife observation opportunities. Multiple reviewers mention seeing moose, deer, cattle, and diverse bird species throughout the camping areas.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most forest sites require careful positioning. "We reckon it's a decent place to spend the night. The road up although somewhat steep at times can easily be accessed without 4WD," observes Samuel H. about Goodenough Creek Campground.
Dump station access: For longer stays, plan accordingly. "They have fuel, propane, dump station ($10) and water," notes Aaron G. about facilities near Indian Rocks.
Size limitations: Many forest service sites accommodate smaller RVs better than larger ones. "Only one pull through in the first loop most sites are a bit smaller. Beautifully tree covered area. Free camping is the best," advises Starla R. at Goodenough Creek Campground.
