Dispersed camping locations surround Leadore, Idaho at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 feet, situated between the Lemhi and Bitterroot mountain ranges. Free camping options in this remote region require self-sufficiency and preparation for variable conditions, especially in spring when snow can linger at higher elevations and autumn when temperatures drop significantly at night.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Salmon River corridor near Deer Gulch offers "great river access" where campers can fish from shore. "Right along the Salmon river" with "easy river access, too," according to visitors who appreciate the convenient water proximity.
Mountain biking trails: Several miles of challenging routes branch off from dispersed areas near Bear Creek Dispersed Campground. "These forests are pretty wild still so definitely keep an eye out for black bears. We haven't seen any Grizzly in this area but they are definitely in the Salmon/Challis area which isn't too far away. Also if you're from Idaho this is a good spot to ride around on your motorcycle or ATV."
Wildflower viewing: Spring and early summer bring abundant blooms to the higher elevation sites. Bear Creek campers report: "We enjoyed the nearby creek and beautiful wildflowers that were blooming." Another visitor noted, "The road goes for quite a while and you can get to some beautiful creek/forest spots with 4WD. Lots of wildflowers."
What campers like
Riverside camping: Multiple sites along the Salmon provide riverside access where you can fall asleep to flowing water. At Birch Creek Camp, campers find "LOTS of spots right next to the river. Some close to bathrooms. Water available at north entrance. Free but asks for a donation."
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed locations offer significant space between campers. One visitor described Birch Creek as a "nice and quiet middle of nowhere spot for a middle of nowhere drive," highlighting the isolation that many free camping areas near Leadore provide.
Cell service at lower elevations: Some riverside sites maintain connectivity for those needing to stay in touch. At Deer Gulch, "I had full bars with Verizon (the cell tower was within line of sight) but my friend with t-mobile had no service whatsoever."
What you should know
Bridge access constraints: Some dispersed sites require crossing narrow bridges that limit RV size. One camper attempting to reach Salmon Creek Camp reported: "The first bridge is closed, and the second bridge is pretty narrow. I have a 16 foot camper, and didn't feel comfortable crossing it."
Road conditions: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. At BLM Skull Canyon Road Dispersed, visitors encountered a "rough narrow rocky track to the site from the highway; recommend high clearance. High humps on this track."
Summer heat at lower elevations: Canyon sites can become extremely hot during summer months. One camper noted about Salmon Creek Camp: "Hot in the summer. There are some higher elevation spots a good ways down the highway."
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom access: Look for sites with vault toilets for easier family camping. At Barretts Station Park Campground, "Two vault toilets near the parking area were very clean. There is also a day use area across the bridge with another restroom and a hand pump well."
Bug protection: Insect repellent is essential, particularly near water. One family reported: "Prepare for the skeeters our thermacell was no match for these guys."
Open spaces for play: Several sites offer room for children to safely explore. One visitor to Deer Gulch mentioned "Lots of room for our dogs to run by site without bothering others," indicating the spacious nature of these dispersed sites.
Tips from RVers
Bridge clearance information: Measure your rig before attempting narrow crossings. A camper at Deer Gulch advised: "Just off the main highway, and only a narrow bridge as an obstacle. There is currently a 30'ish foot big fifth wheel here, so I guess it can handle the weight. Just watch your sides if you are pulling a camper."
Leveling requirements: Many dispersed sites require significant leveling. At Skull Canyon, "Small rock fire ring. Grass and sagebrush all around site. Some leveling may be required."
Limited RV spots: Arrive early to secure the few designated RV spaces at developed dispersed areas. At Barretts Station, "It's basically a park with 2 RV spots tucked in at the end that were taken. The rest of 'camping' is free in the gravel lot."
