Dispersed camping near Lake Pend Oreille provides access to Idaho's deepest lake at 1,158 feet with 111 miles of shoreline. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-35°F, while summer averages 75-85°F with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Many sites lack cell service, especially in more remote locations around Pack River and Priest Lake areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bull Run Access offers excellent fishing access with multiple small lakes. One visitor noted, "We were glad we read the reviews for directions & info about spots — like others mentioned, the best spot is a big grassy area amongst the trees."
Water activities: At North Fork Coeur D'Alene River, the river provides swimming and boating options. A camper shared, "The water is honestly my favorite part about this spot! You're not camping right on it as there are some bushes and an incline, but every spot has a tiny little 1 minute walk down to the water which is awesome."
Wildlife viewing: Engle Lake Dispersed Camping offers wildlife viewing opportunities within hiking distance. According to one backpacker, "When we were here, there were a lot of Elk and Moose foot-traffic. They probably won't bother you. Just be aware of them and store your food properly."
What campers like
Secluded spots: Many campers appreciate the privacy at Hanks Meadow where one visitor reported, "Beautiful! Quiet River sign meadow. Approximately room for four camper setups. Couple of fire rings. Beautiful mountain side."
Waterfront access: The Clark Fork River Driftyard provides boat launch facilities and riverside camping. A reviewer mentioned, "We found this spot to be great for an overnight stop. It was a little out of our way… but you can't beat a free spot with a great view! Camping limit is 3 days."
Mountain views: Rose Lake offers elevated views of the surrounding landscape. As one camper described, "Great elevated views of Rose Lake through the trees at the boat ramp. Several fishermen loading up after a day on the lake. A little noisy, but not distracting."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Seasonal burn bans are common from July through September. Follow posted rules at each site and bring a portable stove as backup.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites have minimal or no facilities. At Rose Lake, "There is a vault toilet with its own parking space. Above me were 2 parking lots where 2-3 other campers were. Plenty of room to spread out and have decent privacy."
Road conditions: Pack River Dispersed Site has challenging access roads. A camper warned, "A few sites available along this road. Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites."
Local traffic: Some camping areas experience more traffic than expected. At Bull Run Access, one camper observed, "The locals in this area were understandably curious. However there is a fine line between driving by to see what's with the unfamiliar vehicle, and deliberately trying to make visitors feel uncomfortable."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: For families ready for a short backpacking adventure, Engle Lake offers an accessible introduction. A visitor shared, "This was my first ever backpacking experience and was a great introduction for me. We did the 3.5-mile trail. It was challenging and encouraging. My dog loved it too."
Spacious group sites: Some areas accommodate larger family gatherings. At Bull Run Access Dispersed, "We were able to get our fifth wheel (40ft long, 13 1/2 ft tall) in and out easy! Lots of spaces and places to turn around."
Insect preparation: Pack insect repellent, especially for summer months. One camper at Bull Run warned, "Close to the water so of course, there were some bugs: lots of bees and mosquitoes."
Tips from RVers
Parking logistics: At Rose Lake, "There seemed to be two large lots (one grass, one gravel) that were camping permissible. We were in the second gravel lot. There appeared to be 5 total groups of campers spread over two spacious lots with plenty room for more."
Site selection: When visiting priest lake dispersed camping, RVers should scout first. "Very nice and secluded area right on the river bed. Can be accessed through the boat launching ramp that's a bit ahead on the road. There are also several different off road paths that lead to some great camping spots in the area."
Leveling challenges: Many dispersed sites aren't level. One RVer at Rose Lake noted, "I struggled with this place, it would be really great if the two lot areas were level. There isn't a level spot anywhere."
