Top Free Dispersed Camping near May, ID

Looking for dispersed camping near May? Here you'll find a diverse selection of places to camp, including remote dispersed camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the trees or wide open spaces, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect dispersed campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near May, ID (12)

Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In May

13 Reviews of 12 May Campgrounds


  • Ben H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Deadman Hole Dispersed
    Sep. 4, 2024

    Deadman Hole Dispersed

    Simple

    Stayed here for two nights. The first night I have the whole area to myself. The second night there was two other campers. Doesn't seem to be super popular or high in demand. So finding a spot shouldn't be a problem. There was about six or more parking/camping areas. No Wi-Fi or Verizon signal. There is a toilet available. Access to the river as well.

  • tThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Lost River Dispersed
    Aug. 7, 2023

    Big Lost River Dispersed

    Surprisingly easy access. Clean and ADA accessible

    I selected this campground after missing out on a nearby first come first serve that was fully booked. I am just thrilled with the campsites and cleanliness of the pit toilets and nearby stream and fishing.

  • Mondo Moto Media
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Lost River Dispersed
    Sep. 14, 2022

    Big Lost River Dispersed

    Amazing views even worth the bit of washboard road you must go over

    Incredible views after driving through most of Idaho this spot is a relief! Water /fishing access ,private spots , even one really nice paved spot close to entrance , don’t miss the turn it’s near a cattle gate on the gravel road

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Lost River Dispersed
    Aug. 1, 2022

    Big Lost River Dispersed

    Not bad off the road

    Probably 15 spots. AT&T 1-2 5G. Pit toilets, 10 day max stay right on Big Lost River, fishing might be good? No garbage, water. Not bad for a 2-3 nighter.

  • Nikki A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Creek Dispersed
    Jun. 19, 2022

    Bear Creek Dispersed

    Beautiful Dispersed Camping

    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. The road goes for quite a while and you can get to some beautiful creek/forest spots with 4WD. Lots of wildflowers :)

  • Nancy C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Deadman Hole Dispersed
    Jul. 8, 2021

    Deadman Hole Dispersed

    A little slice of paradise on the Salmon River

    Pros: *Views for miles *Steps from the Salmon River *Boat launch for rafting,kayaking,fishing *Covered picnic table *Generous spacing between sites *Serious star gazing opportunities

    • Easy drive to Challis for supplies

    Cons: *No shade *Close to road, so some road noise.

    • No services, except a vault toilet, but with views like this, who cares.

    Pros out weigh the cons for us. 2 thumbs up.

  • Jamie M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Creek Dispersed
    Jul. 1, 2021

    Bear Creek Dispersed

    Beautiful camping

    We enjoyed the nearby creek and beautiful wildflowers that were blooming. Port-a-potties were there when we first set up camp but they were later taken by forest staff which left us without a toilet.

  • Rhett B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Winged Fork Pl Dispersed
    Sep. 27, 2020

    Winged Fork Pl Dispersed

    GPS Coordinates Are Completely Wrong

    GPS coordinates show for Eagle, ID but the drycamping spot isn’t remotely close to Eagle. It’s near Challis, ID.

  • Cia S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Winged Fork Pl Dispersed
    Jul. 27, 2020

    Winged Fork Pl Dispersed

    Gorgeous site

    On left, out East Fork Rd from Challis. Long ways. Decent dirt road but great drive. Just past private land into National Forest, can see Germainia trailhead from there. Old settlement remains on river. Small metal fire ring Great views and quiet!

  • Alan B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Creek Dispersed
    Sep. 7, 2019

    Bear Creek Dispersed

    Amazing Scenery and Solitude!!!

    This is an amazing secluded spot deep into the Sawtooth Mountains of Central Idaho.  We've been coming here for years and my fathers been coming here since the 60's.  Not much has changed except for better upkeep of the roads and the occasional vault toilet that are scattered across the area.  The campground is free to stay at and has a dispersed feeling to it.  There are no developed rings or tables but you can tell where people usually set up camp.  For the most part this is an RV campsite mostly because of how the spots are arranged.  You could put a tent in here if you wanted but there are way better spots just up the road out of the RV'ers reaches.  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 and get some pristine alpine fishing in!



Guide to May

Camping near May, Idaho, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to soak in hot springs or enjoy serene lakes, this area has something for everyone.

What to do

  • Soak in hot springs: Visit Challis Hot Springs for a relaxing soak. One camper raved, "I was NOT disappointed!!! Beautiful lawn, one of the freshest hot springs I’ve visited."
  • Fishing and hiking: At Meadow Lake Campground, you can fish and hike right from your campsite. A visitor mentioned, "There are lots of fish to be caught. Fish and Game stock it twice a year."
  • Explore the river: Bayhorse Recreation Site is perfect for river access. One camper noted, "Great place to put in on the Salmon River, access to hiking, etc."

What campers like

  • Scenic views: Campers love the stunning scenery. One reviewer at Big Bayhorse said, "This place is absolutely gorgeous. The sky view at night was amazing… clear view of the Milky Way!"
  • Clean facilities: Many appreciate the well-maintained campgrounds. A visitor at Elk Bend RV Park shared, "The owner was incredibly nice, accommodating and kept this place so well-maintained."
  • Quiet atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of the area. One reviewer at Camp Creek BLM Camping mentioned, "Each spot is super private… it’s not a super busy road."

What you should know

  • Limited amenities: Many campgrounds, like Morgan Bar Campground, have minimal facilities. A camper noted, "There is river access. The only plot that I found that I could use my hammock at was plot 8."
  • Road conditions: Some campgrounds are accessible via rough roads. A visitor at Big Bayhorse said, "The road can be a bit sketchy in spots but all in all not completely difficult."
  • Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife. One camper at Bear Creek Dispersed Campground mentioned, "These forests are pretty wild still so definitely keep an eye out for black bears."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with space for kids to play. A reviewer at Williams Lake Campground said, "The sites are large and there are enough space for more than 2 or 3 tents easily."
  • Plan activities: Bring fishing gear or hiking boots. One camper at Meadow Lake Campground mentioned, "We did some hiking up the trails to look over the campsite and the lake."
  • Pack snacks: Keep everyone fueled for outdoor fun. A visitor at Challis Hot Springs noted, "Great campers" which suggests a friendly atmosphere for families.

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Elk Bend RV Park said, "There is more than enough space for a 40-foot RV."
  • Bring your own water: Many sites, like Morgan Bar Campground, lack water hookups. A visitor advised, "Bring bug spray it was buggy!"
  • Stay connected: Some areas have limited cell service. A reviewer at Camp Creek BLM Camping mentioned, "No cell signal (Verizon)."

Camping near May, Idaho, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a memorable experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near May, ID?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near May, ID is Deer Gulch with a 4.7-star rating from 3 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near May, ID?

    TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near May, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.