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Best Dispersed Camping near Ketchum, ID

82 Reviews

The Sawtooth National Forest surrounding Ketchum, Idaho features predominantly dispersed camping options with minimal facilities. Popular areas include Lake Creek Road Dispersed, located just past town on Highway 75, and Corral Creek Canyon Dispersed, both offering free camping with established pullouts. These sites typically accommodate both tent and RV camping, though few are suitable for larger rigs. Most dispersed sites sit on Forest Service roads that begin near residential areas before transitioning to dirt and gravel surfaces with mountain views and creek access.

Stay limits vary significantly throughout the region, with most sites near Ketchum enforcing a 3-day maximum, while areas farther from town may permit up to 16 days. As one camper noted, "The first part of Lake Creek Road allows for 3-day max camping, but a little further in, you'll hit 16-day max stay." Road conditions deteriorate with distance from town, often becoming washboarded or rutted. Cell service remains strong near Ketchum but diminishes in more remote locations. Summer fire restrictions frequently prohibit campfires despite the presence of established fire rings. Most sites lack amenities entirely, with no water, trash service, or toilet facilities.

Mountain views dominate the camping experience, with many sites offering panoramic vistas of surrounding peaks. Campers consistently mention the quality of night skies and morning views as highlights. Wildlife sightings, particularly ground squirrels and birds, are common. Sites fill quickly on summer weekends, especially those closest to town. A visitor to Lake Creek Road observed, "Driving past mega mansions will eventually lead you to a dirt road stretching into an open valley. Not a lot of protection from the road, but traffic quieted down pretty quickly after sunset. Was full by about 6pm on a Friday evening." Most sites lack shade, making summer camping potentially uncomfortable during peak daytime temperatures, though evenings cool considerably with the mountain elevation.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Ketchum, Idaho (40)

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Ketchum, ID

82 Reviews of 40 Ketchum Campgrounds

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 2, 2021

    Lake Creek Rd Dispersed

    Open Spaces and Free

    This forest service land is a quick drive down Lake Creek Rd from Hwy 75 just past the town of Ketchum in the Sawtooth National Forest. You'll drive through a residential area so mind your speed as there are kids around and lots of cars parked that were crowding into the road a bit as there were construction workers building one of the massive houses along this road. 

    The paved road comes to an end with a large parking or turn around area then turns to a very washboarded dirt/gravel road that runs behind people’s houses so maybe drive a bit slower to keep the dust down until you pass that point. 

    There are multiple areas that are large and mostly flat that pull off the side of this main dirt road. The views are amazing and it seemed quiet. We did not stay here as it was too hot at the time, but we would have because you have nice hiking or biking opportunities here. The pullout spaces are large enough for a good sized rig, we had plenty of space for our 26’ class C. A couple of the sites had stone fire pits but fire restrictions are in effect so no fires at this time.  There are plenty of sites here and they were almost all free when we visited in September.

    There are no amenities here. No garbage or water. You are fully in the sun with no shade. 

    The camping limit is 3 days only. There is one garbage can at near the large turn around/parking area before the road turns to dirt but it was small so just take your trash with you. 

    Good ATT and Verizon cell reception.

  • The Wandering Shores ..The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2022

    Redfish Lake Overflow Dispersed

    Video Review Now Available

    In this video we provide a comprehensive review of 3 of the free boondocking(dispersed camping) sites near Stanley, Idaho in the Sawtooth National Forest. Salmon River Designated Spots 1, 2 and 3. All locations are in the Sawtooth National Forest and there is a 10 day stay limit between May 1- September 15th with an unlimited stay limited outside of that time period. 

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5WWH8Vb49Ow&t=531s

  • Annie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2019

    Redfish Lake Overflow Dispersed

    Dispersed with vault toilet

    If you show up to Redfish Lake on a busy weekend and all of the campgrounds are reserved/full, no worries. There is a bunch of free dispersed camping all along highway 75. A quick stop at the Forest Service Office down the road and I had a pretty good map of the forest roads in the area, but more importantly, a tip about free camping a stone’s throw away from Redfish Lake and Sunny Gulch campground. The road in is a bit rough with ruts and rocks, but there are several established sites with fire rings. There was a loop to the right with about 8 such sites and a loop to the right with about 5 sites as well as one that was hidden behind the site I chose that you had to walk in to(it was actually a nicer site than the one I chose, but I was tired and set up before I saw it on my explorations. There was one vault toilet that was not especially clean, but free is free, and if you really wanted to, you could walk less than a quarter mile across to the developed Sunny Gulch campground. There are no picnic tables or grills or tent pads, but definitely stone fire rings at each site so no worries as long as you brought your own camp chair. If you need a shower, head into Redfish Lake to use the public pay showers there.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2023

    Antelope Creek

    Close in to Sun Valley

    Nice location, close to town. Close to road but not much traffic. Access can be difficult with steep access from main road and tricky spots along the access road. There are three access spots. Would pick the first or second. The road is difficult between the second and third access roads. Would recommend walking down to see if safe for you and your vehicle. There is more dispersed camping farther up the road but you begin to lose cell coverage.

  • Cia S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2020

    Winged Fork Pl Dispersed

    Gorgeous site

    On left, out East Fork Rd from Challis. Long ways. Decent dirt road but great drive. Just past private land into National Forest, can see Germainia trailhead from there. Old settlement remains on river. Small metal fire ring Great views and quiet!

  • Fred S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 31, 2024

    Corral Creek Designated Dispersed

    Large dispersed site near creek

    Free designated dispersed campsite along Sawtooth Nation Forest Road 137. Camped here at the end of September 2024. Very large designated dispersed site set downhill from the forest road; no issues with dust from this road. The area is level. May be able to park 3 rigs. Tent camping is possible back from the parking area toward the metal firering. This area can accommodate 3 or 4 tents, or one big hot tent. Corral Creek is just down a short path from the campsite. The sound of the creek can be heard at the site. Very quiet area. Mountains on either side of the site. The parking area is dirt and gravel. The "tent" area is grass and dirt. Don't see opportunities for hammock camping. No cell service. No shade; solar recharging and Starlink possible. 3 day limit. Hiking trailheads and vault toilet at the end of the forest road.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 30, 2021

    Cougar Dispersed Camping Area

    Peaceful Near a Flowing River

    We came here second week of May just after the rangers opened FR-146. We travelled all the way to the end where there is a trailer turn-around. All sites looked nice and we counted 12 designated dispersed sites, #1 was the furthest in. We ended up in 2C(the furthest in of three sites of area #2. The site was next to the river. It was 4.5 miles in on the dirt road and our closest neighbor was back up the road 3.5 miles in camp Murdock, roughly a twenty minute drive. The only animals we saw were ground squirrels. It was so peaceful and a wonderful experience.

  • Kathryn D.
    Aug. 10, 2024

    Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed

    Creekside!

    Delightful creekside free campsites! Turn at the BLM sign and take a little gravel road to several free creekside spots! There are at least two pit toilets, one at a spot with two picnic tables, each has a great shade, fire pit, and a place for a camp stove! One has a flat raised gravel spot for a tent, which was good because we actually saw a couple mice. The second pit toilet was further down the road at a more separated spot, it looked like it was ADA accessible and also had a picnic table, etc. Close enough to Carey to get gas/ice. Only giving it 4 stars because of the mice (pack out your own trash guys! It isn’t hard!) and the complete lack of trees, the covers over the picnic tables did proved shade, but it still got crazy hot.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 25, 2025

    Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed

    Gorgeous Spot on the River

    Great spots near a slow moving river with bathrooms and shade and picnic tables. The best dispersed camping I have ever found! No trash, so pack it out, and the toilets are buggy, but the scenery and privacy is worth it. You get in far enough and get hidden by sage brush!

Guide to Ketchum

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Ketchum, Idaho, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those looking to escape into the wilderness.

Dispersed campers should check out Antelope Creek

  • Located near Sun Valley, Antelope Creek offers a secluded experience right next to a creek, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility.
  • The site features ample space for tents and RVs, allowing for a comfortable stay even during colder nights when frost may cover your tent.
  • Access to hiking trails and proximity to town means you can enjoy both adventure and convenience during your stay.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Ketchum, Idaho

  • When visiting North Fork Big Wood River dispersed #5, be prepared for some highway noise, but the peaceful creek nearby makes it worth it.
  • This area is popular for its wooded forest experience, so venturing a few miles in can lead to quieter spots with stunning views and great hiking opportunities.
  • Remember that cell service may be limited in some areas, so plan accordingly and enjoy the disconnect from technology.

Scenic spots for dispersed camping near Ketchum

  • Lake Creek Rd Dispersed is known for its breathtaking views and proximity to a small pond, perfect for those who appreciate nature's beauty.
  • The area allows for longer stays, with some sites offering a 16-day maximum, giving you plenty of time to explore the surrounding trails and landscapes.
  • Keep in mind that amenities are minimal, so come prepared with all necessary supplies for a comfortable camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping near Ketchum, Idaho?

The Ketchum area offers excellent dispersed camping options in the Sawtooth National Forest. Lake Creek Rd Dispersed is a convenient option just past Ketchum off Highway 75 - you'll drive through a residential area before reaching the forest service land. For those seeking alternatives, Antelope Creek provides nice spots close to town with multiple access points, though some sections have steep entry points. Additional options include North Fork Big Wood River dispersed areas, Uncle Johns Gulch on Corral Creek Road, and Lane Creek Road. Most dispersed sites in the Sawtooth National Forest have a 10-day stay limit during peak season (May-September). Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and check current forest regulations before setting up camp.

Is free camping available year-round in the Ketchum area?

Free camping is available near Ketchum, but seasonal accessibility varies significantly. Many forest roads and higher elevation sites like Corral Creek Designated Dispersed close during winter months due to snow. Some Forest Service roads, including FR-146 where Cougar Dispersed Camping Area is located, typically open in May. Lower elevation sites along Highway 75 may remain accessible longer into fall and earlier in spring, weather permitting. Winter camping requires preparation for extreme conditions, and some roads may be impassable even with 4WD. Always check current Forest Service road closures and conditions before heading out, especially during shoulder seasons when conditions can change rapidly.

What is the Trail Creek Road dispersed camping area like in Ketchum?

Trail Creek Road near Ketchum offers several dispersed camping opportunities with mountain views and accessibility. Similar to Corral Creek Canyon Dispersed, which features various pull-out sites along a gravel road that doesn't require 4x4, Trail Creek has multiple informal camping spots. The area provides a mix of forested and open sites with proximity to recreational trails. Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed offers a comparable experience with creekside camping, though Trail Creek sites generally have fewer amenities. Most spots are primitive with no facilities, so campers should be prepared to pack out all waste. Sites vary in size, with some accommodating larger vehicles while others work better for smaller setups or tent camping. The area tends to be less crowded than established campgrounds near Sun Valley.

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