Lake Creek Road Dispersed camping offers free sites in Sawtooth National Forest, with designated spots ranging from 15-20 locations along a dirt access road. The area sits at 6,000 feet elevation in an open valley setting with mountain views surrounding Ketchum, Idaho. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day with cool 45-55°F nights.
What to do
Creek exploration: Follow Lake Creek itself for wading and natural water play. "The creek is perfect for dogs and kids to wade in. No bugs, clean, quiet and level for the camper. There's a small lake further down to fish," notes Jeremiah C. from Lake Creek Rd Dispersed.
Fishing opportunities: Venture to the end of Lake Creek Road to access pond fishing. "If you drive to the end (go right when the road Y's) there's a crystal clear pond that feeds the creek. It has trout visible, several ducks, there's a vault toilet, picnic table, and established fire ring," shares Bethany W.
Trail hiking: Access numerous hiking paths from Antelope Creek dispersed area. "Close enough to town, close enough to hiking," explains Nicki S., who found a "secluded and perfect spot right next to the creek."
Mountain biking: Ride directly from your campsite at multiple locations. "Hiking/mtb trail next to campsites," mentions a camper at Uncle Johns Gulch, describing the "beautiful secluded area" with "large campsites next to stream nestled in a beautiful valley."
What campers like
Cell service availability: Many dispersed sites maintain usable phone connections. "Good ATT and Verizon cell reception," reports Laura M. about Lake Creek Rd Dispersed. This contrasts with deeper forest locations where connectivity disappears.
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the spacing at most dispersed areas. "Each site is a good distance apart, we never heard our neighbors," writes Jeremiah C. about Lake Creek Road camping.
Early arrival timing: Sites fill quickly, especially on summer weekends. "Visited in August 2024... Was full by about 6pm on a Friday evening," notes Sam S. Similarly, another camper advises: "Lots of room for big rigs. Probably 20 or so spots all up the road they were all full by the evening so come earlier!"
Wildlife viewing: Bring binoculars for spotting mountain wildlife. "If you have binoculars or a telescope, you can oftentimes see the Mountain goats on the higher ridges," reports Mike E. about Prairie Creek Camping. One lucky family at Park Creek Campground was "greeted by a moose and her calf" upon arrival.
What you should know
Stay limits vary: Different sections of Lake Creek Road have different camping restrictions. "The first part of the road allows for 3-day max camping, but a little further in, you'll hit 16-day max stay!" explains a camper.
Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites lack facilities. "There are no amenities here. No garbage or water. You are fully in the sun with no shade," Laura M. reports about Lake Creek Road. Similarly, Corral Creek Designated Dispersed offers a "metal firering" but otherwise minimal facilities.
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging depending on location. "The paved road comes to an end with a large parking or turn around area then turns to a very washboarded dirt/gravel road," explains Laura M. about Lake Creek Road access.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly. "You're in a valley without a lot of visibility far out to the weather. Therefore, weather can change on you rapidly and strongly. Be prepared," warns Mike E. about camping near the North Fork of Big Wood River.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible wading spots: Find shallow creek areas safe for children. "The sites further up are away from the others and run along a stream," notes a camper at Lake Creek Road, ideal for pet-friendly camping near Ketchum with kids who want water play.
Wildlife education opportunities: Turn animal sightings into learning experiences. At Park Creek Campground, a family spotted "a moose and her calf" immediately upon arrival, creating a memorable wildlife encounter.
Stargazing conditions: Minimal light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. "Stars were also INCREDIBLE!" exclaims Kaitlyn P. about Park Creek Campground, making evening activities easy with children.
Creek exploration: Let kids investigate shallow streams safely. "My family loves walking through them and exploring them (most of the creek is shin deep, sometimes there are little swimming holes that could come up to your waist). Be warned, the water is freezing!" shares Dyani S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Some dispersed areas accommodate substantial RVs better than others. "Very good place, lots of area for multiple tents, very pretty views. Best location I have been to yet. A lot of places are very small not big enough for larger vehicles and this spot is big enough for 30 foot trailer," reports Chad A. about North Fork Big Wood River dispersed #5.
Alternative campgrounds with hookups: When full facilities are needed, consider established parks. "The host here was very accommodating and generous with his time. Very courteous and really goes out of his way to make your stay special," notes Steve H. about Meadows RV Park, though he cautions "spaces are very packed in and they alternate every other site from nose to tail."
Arrival timing strategy: Come early to secure pet-friendly camping spots near Ketchum. "We arrived at dark and set up camp at about the 3rd or 4th spot in (3 day camp limit in this area). Woke up to the most wonderful views!" shares Bethany W.
