Best Dispersed Camping near Island Park, ID
The forests around Island Park have plenty of dispersed camping options, with many spots not far from Yellowstone National Park. Most primitive sites sit on public land where you'll need to bring everything with you - no bathrooms or water sources are available. The Forest Service requires campers to set up at least 100 feet from streams and 200 feet from main roads. You can stay up to two weeks in one spot before needing to move. Many dirt roads leading to good camping areas get rutted and rough after rain, so trucks and SUVs do better than passenger cars. Since there's no garbage service, plan to haul out everything you bring in. During summer and fall, fire bans often go into effect - check with the ranger station in town before making plans. Bears and other wildlife roam throughout this area, so store food properly in sealed containers. While finding a spot takes more work than using established campgrounds, the quiet and space make it worth the effort. The nearest gas and supplies are in Island Park, about 20-30 minutes from most dispersed sites.
