Dispersed camping spots near Mackay, Idaho range in elevation from 5,900 feet in town to over 7,000 feet in the surrounding mountains. Summer nighttime temperatures typically drop into the 40s even when daytime highs reach the 80s. Many campsites along Big Lost River require high-clearance vehicles, especially after spring runoff when roads can develop deep ruts.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Mackay Reservoir Fishing Access provides direct water access for anglers. "Quiet and secluded. 2 other vehicles overnight, plenty of space. Mosquito swarms! Beware!" notes camper Gabriel M. The dirt road has loose gravel but is manageable for larger vehicles.
Hot springs hiking: Located near Pass Creek Narrows Camping Area & Picnic Site, hot springs are accessible by trail. This small canyon campsite offers beautiful scenery with "access to a toilet across the road and there is a fire ring with a picnic table," according to Jamie M. Morning temperatures remain cool due to the deep canyon location.
Wildflower viewing: Bear Creek Dispersed Campground features impressive wildflower displays during summer months. "The road first takes you through a canyon with a few dispersed spots with tables and fire pits. Saw one vault toilet too. As you continue to this spot, there's lots of places to pull off and camp," shares Nikki A. Four-wheel drive vehicles can access more remote creek and forest spots.
What campers like
Mountain backdrop: The towering Lost River Range provides dramatic scenery from multiple camping areas. At Mackay Tourist Park, campers enjoy "beautiful views of the mountains. Had 2 deer meander through the campground in the morning!" according to Lori. This free dry camping area features grassy sites with picnic tables and fire pits.
Ease of access: Many dispersed sites are surprisingly accessible despite their remote feel. Tom P. notes that Big Lost River Dispersed offers "surprisingly easy access. Clean and ADA accessible. I am just thrilled with the campsites and cleanliness of the pit toilets and nearby stream and fishing."
Temperature variations: The higher elevation areas provide relief from summer heat. Kathy B. discovered at Joe T. Fallini Campground that "weather was 10 plus degrees cooler than most places around the Salmon/Mackay area. We snagged one of the two water sites! Absolutely wonderful."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies widely throughout the region. Christopher E. reports at Big Lost River Dispersed that "AT&T 1-2 5G" is available, though signal strength decreases in more remote areas and canyons.
Water availability concerns: Most dispersed sites require bringing your own water. Tom P. notes Big Lost River Dispersed has "cleanliness of the pit toilets and nearby stream," but potable water must be carried in or filtered.
Seasonal facilities: Some campgrounds reduce services during off-seasons. At Lava Flow Campground, Kelly H. shares that "off-season has no running water but vault toilets are clean. If you have handicap/senior access pass, only $4/night off season."
Wind exposure: Several sites experience significant winds, particularly near water. At Joe T. Fallini Campground, Marlo A. warns that the "reservoir is great year round. Fun ice fishing in the winter and big enough for boating in the summer. Just beware that it is almost ALWAYS windy there."
Tips for camping with families
Designated family sites: Mackay Tourist Park offers family-friendly amenities within town limits. Michael A. says, "If you show up in the summer you get amazing weather and incredible fishing. Would 10/10 recommend to anybody."
ATV-friendly options: The Wagon Wheel Motel & RV Park provides a base for off-road adventures. John H. notes it's a "great area for ATV/UTV riding!" with "nice & clean" facilities and "accommodating hosts."
Swimming access: Joe T. Fallini Campground offers water recreation with established camping amenities. Melody M. shares, "We enjoyed our stay here so much, we stayed an extra couple of days! This is a well-kept, well-designed BLM campground. Some spaces have shade trees, some do not."
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer picnic tables and basic toilet facilities. Tom P. appreciates that Big Lost River Dispersed has "cleanliness of the pit toilets and nearby stream and fishing," making it suitable for families seeking more rustic experiences.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: For those seeking full hookups, Wagon Wheel Motel & RV Park provides modern amenities. John H. mentions "nice & level pull thru and back in sites" with "restrooms are key coded thus nice and clean."
Road conditions: Access to dispersed camping requires caution. Mondo Moto Media reports that Big Lost River Dispersed has "incredible views after driving through most of Idaho" but warns about "a bit of washboard road you must go over."
Length limitations: Larger rigs have specific site options. Gabriel M. confirms that Mackay Reservoir Fishing Access can accommodate "full length SUV + 30ft camper" and had "plenty of space" despite the dirt road with loose gravel.
Winter camping options: Some sites remain accessible year-round. Marlo A. notes Joe T. Fallini Campground is "great winter camping though because they still have power hook ups and open outhouses that are decently clean" and offers "fun ice fishing in the winter."
