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Best Dispersed Camping near Lowman, ID

64 Reviews

Dispersed camping in the Boise National Forest surrounds Lowman, Idaho, with several free primitive sites accessible via forest service roads. Forest Service Campsite FR0215B Dispersed provides large open sites suitable for various vehicle types and accommodates both RVs and tent campers. Other notable dispersed areas include Beautiful Boise National Forest near hot springs and riverside camping, Nip and Tuck Road with tent sites, and Irish Point at Arrowrock Reservoir. Most locations follow standard 14-day stay limits and typically feature established fire rings but minimal other amenities.

Access to many dispersed sites requires navigation on dirt and gravel roads, with conditions varying significantly by season and recent weather. The road to Arrowrock Reservoir presents challenges, described by campers as "tight" and potentially "sketchy" for larger vehicles and trailers, though passable when driven slowly. Several areas lack amenities entirely - no drinking water, toilets, or trash service. Most sites permit fires when no restrictions are in place, but visitors should check current fire bans during summer months as conditions can change rapidly. Cell service exists at some locations but remains unreliable in more remote areas.

Camping near rivers and reservoirs provides opportunities for fishing, swimming, and paddling during warmer months. The Beautiful Boise National Forest area features proximity to natural hot springs and small beaches along the river. Wildlife viewing is common throughout the region. While most areas maintain a secluded feel, holiday periods can bring increased traffic and noise. Visitors should be prepared for variable conditions and pack out all waste. "Large open sites. Big rigs go left and park on top. Large areas, can accommodate dozens of RVs and tents," noted one review of Forest Service Campsite FR0215B. Another camper warned about Arrowrock Reservoir: "If you don't have a four wheel drive vehicle don't go, all wheel drive won't do it in winter."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Lowman, Idaho (33)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Lowman, ID

76 Photos of 33 Lowman Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Lowman, ID

64 Reviews of 33 Lowman Campgrounds

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2024

    Herrick Reservoir Access

    Just ok

    Camping is free, limit of 10 days. Not really any designated sites and surrounded by private land with aggressive signage. Not all roads around the reservoir are public, so be prepared to turn around and back up at dead ends. We came to an orange gate that said "private property", and stopped. While trying to turn around, we noticed a white truck sitting behind us. When we turned around and passed him, he motioned to roll down the window, and then berated us and called us idiots, even though we had not even entered the private land, nor did we want to. We felt threatened. In the end we chose a site on the upper road of the reservoir. The view was nice but not close to the pit toilet. No fire ring. No table. A no frills place. Like many lakes in Idaho, the reservoir is mostly dry. Not a huge deal but not the prettiest to look at. There is only one single pit toilet for the whole reservoir and someone was set up right next to it like it was their own. People ride off-road vehicles here. In an area with slim pickings for free camping, I guess you have to take what you can get.

  • Sadie P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 24, 2025

    Forest Service Campsite FR0215B Dispersed

    Great place, Quiet

    Large open sites. Big rigs go left and park on top. Large areas, can accommodate dozens of RVs and tents.

    Avoid during holidays, people leave tents and rvs for days to keep the spot despite rules and the ranger station will do nothing about it. At those times expect loud parties and even fights or gunfire which the rangers will also do nothing about.

    Other than that its great. Take a right on the highway and head to the sourdough lodge for the best pancakes for hundreds of miles.

    There are many other dispersed and paid spots along the highway.

    Details: Free camping 14 Day limit No tables at campsites Minimal wood to scavenge Town of Lowman is close by No trash, water, or toilets

  • 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.

  • Sadie P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 24, 2025

    Irish Point Dispersed Camp Ground

    Easy drive, Beautiful, avoid on holidays

    Easy to get to, no marked spots, tent or small to mid RV. Pit toilet on site. No boat launch but easy enough for small craft or floaties. Sloped, not much level spots. Nice views and easy bank fishing.

    Details: No site boundaries, easily crowds No trash or water Long drive to services Slow drive in if towing medium or large trailer No tables Minimal rock fire rings Long drive to town, bring plenty of stuff Free stat, 14 day limit, rangers may stop by and say hi, if you’re lucky they’ll clean and restock the toilet. Don’t count on being lucky

  • Tee C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 14, 2023

    Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed

    Rough road but beautiful location

    Entering the park is beautiful! There’s a paved road with campsites you need a reservation for. Where the coordinates are on this map is about 30 minutes down a gravel road that looks ok, but is very rutted. I drive a cargo van and it shook everything to the point where I didn’t want to do 30 minutes of it. There are signs that say “no roadside camping next 7 miles”, but after mile marker 7, you’ll notice fire rings off the sides of the roads on both sides, including lake front. So I just want to make sure y’all know that you don’t actually have to drive all the way down to the dispersed spots to find camping. Other than that, it’s a gorgeous area. No Verizon service for me.

  • Laura C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 5, 2019

    Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed

    Private

    Me and boyfriend enjoy going here in the fall and spring to get away from the city for a day or two. There is hiking right across the street. Mt Heinen which is a very strenous hike. Its over 9 miles(up and back) and over a 3,000 ft gain so be prepared if you try to tackle this summit. Anyways, the campground has some fire pits but no picnic tables. There are a few trees for shade. One part of this campground that confuses me is that there use to be a small outhouse in summer of 2018 but when I came in 2019 in march and April there was not one? When we come in the fall and spring theres no one other than us there. In the summer it does get quite a few people there. Also it gets super hot in the summertime so be sure to bring plenty of water. Good thing is you can take a dip in the cold reservoir to cool off. There's no trash services so pack it in and pack it out. A lot of people come here to party and leave trash around so i make it a point to pick it up. Please don't be those people to ruin a beautiful free spot. 💚

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 6, 2024

    Irish Point Dispersed Camp Ground

    Beautiful spot, but difficult to get to

    About an hour off the highway, 7 miles of which are washboard-bumpy gravel roads along the lake cliffside (Had to drive under 10mph those last 7 miles). We were in an AWD sprinter van, and the road conditions definitely put a damper on the night. Site is right on the water gorgeous once you’re there. The stars were incredible. Toilet on site but the flies were swarming.

  • Taylor C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 16, 2023

    Iron Creek Camp on Forest Road 619

    dope spot little sketch

    this camping site is great, super bumpy dirt road takes you to a few hidden plots tucked away by a river. private and easy to crash for the night

Guide to Lowman

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lowman, Idaho, where nature's tranquility meets the thrill of adventure. With a variety of locations to choose from, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore.

Scenic Fishing Spots for Dispersed Campers

Hiking Trails to Explore While Free Camping Near Lowman

  • The Nip and Tuck Rd - Dispersed Camping offers access to numerous hiking trails, allowing campers to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of the Sawtooth National Forest.
  • For a more challenging hike, the Middle Cramer Lake Dispersed site requires a trek of about nine miles, rewarding hikers with spectacular views and a serene atmosphere.
  • The Stanley Lake FS 638 Road Dispersed is conveniently located near the lake, providing easy access to trails that showcase the area's natural beauty.

Relaxing Spots for Stargazing and Campfires

  • The Irish Point Dispersed Camp Ground is an ideal location for stargazing, with minimal light pollution and a peaceful lakeside setting perfect for evening campfires.
  • At the Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed, campers can enjoy stunning sunsets and clear night skies, making it a great spot for those who love to gaze at the stars.
  • The Herrick Reservoir Access provides a tranquil environment for evening relaxation, with ample space for campfires and enjoying the serene sounds of nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping spots near Lowman, Idaho?

The Lowman area offers several free dispersed camping options in the Boise National Forest. Forest Service Campsite FR0215B Dispersed provides large open sites that can accommodate numerous RVs and tents, with bigger rigs advised to park on top. For waterfront camping, Herrick Reservoir Access offers free camping with a 10-day limit, though be mindful of surrounding private land with clear signage. Other options in the region include areas along forest service roads, with a 10-day stay limit typically enforced throughout the national forest. Always check local regulations and forest service notices before setting up camp, as access roads and availability can change seasonally.

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites around Lowman?

Dispersed camping sites around Lowman are typically primitive with minimal amenities. At Irish Point Dispersed Camp Ground, you'll find pit toilets but no marked spots, making it suitable for tents or small to mid-sized RVs. The site offers nice views and easy bank fishing access, though it lacks trash service or water facilities. Similarly, Boise National Forest Willow Creek Campground provides basic amenities including pit toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits with grills. While there is a water pump at some locations, it may not be operational year-round. Most dispersed sites in the area don't have electrical hookups, cell service, or trash collection, so campers should plan to pack out all waste and bring sufficient water supplies.

When is the best season for dispersed camping in Lowman, Idaho?

The prime season for dispersed camping around Lowman is late spring through early fall (May to September), when roads are most accessible and temperatures comfortable. At Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed, campers particularly enjoy spring and fall visits when the area is less crowded and the weather is mild. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, but prepare for potential crowds, especially during holidays. At Redfish Lake Overflow Dispersed and similar areas, a 10-day stay limit is enforced between May 1st and September 15th. Fall brings spectacular colors and fewer crowds, while winter camping is possible but requires winter driving skills and appropriate cold-weather gear as many access roads become difficult or impassable with snow.

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