Dispersed camping opportunities near McCammon, Idaho offer a mix of free and paid options throughout the Caribou-Targhee National Forest region. Located at elevations ranging from 4,700 to 8,000 feet, these campsites experience warm summer days with cool nights and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Verizon cell service varies significantly across the area, with stronger signals at higher elevations and more exposed sites.
What to do
Hike nearby trails: Scout Mountain Campground provides access to hiking paths directly from the campsite. "Great hiking and horseback riding trails, quiet, not too crowded," notes Sheri C. about the Scout Mountain Campground.
Enjoy river activities: The Portneuf River offers tubing and fishing opportunities during summer months. "Paddle boarding, kayaking, and fishing are primo," reports Chelsey M. about Lower Portneuf Campground, adding that their campsite was "right next to a river waterfall."
Visit hot springs: Lava Hot Springs is a primary attraction with multiple thermal pool options. "The hot mineral pools, which are open until 11 PM, are amazing, especially in the evenings in the cooler weather," writes Shannon P., who stayed at Lower Portneuf Campground.
What campers like
Shaded sites: Many campgrounds offer tree coverage for summer heat protection. "The tent area is quite pretty and I really liked that the ground is large grain sand so it made setting up camp very easy. There are mature trees around so there is part or full shade for most of the area," explains Michelle H. about her stay at Lava Hot Springs East KOA.
Natural water features: Creek and riverside campsites provide both scenery and ambient sound. "Woke up to an amazing sunrise and sound of the creek. Just lovely and it's Free!" writes Sanjeeta S. about her experience at Goodenough Creek Campground.
Walking distance to town: Certain campgrounds offer proximity to amenities. "Our riverside campground was wonderful. Walking distance to restaurants and local shops," notes Sam F., who stayed at Lava Hot Springs West KOA.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience train disruptions, particularly overnight. "The trains; however, were a drag at night. Not many ran during the day but at night we counted 8 that went by. The tracks are only about 100' from most of the spots. The real kicker is, because there's a crossing to get into the campground, the trains blast their horn literally right as they pass you," warns Brett T. about Lower Portneuf Campground.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality. "The road into dispersed camping is full of pot holes so go slow with a Class A RV or if you have low clearance," advises Aaron G. about Indian Rocks Dispersed Camping.
Limited availability: Popular sites fill quickly during peak season. "We came on a Thursday morning in late September and there were only two spots left," shares Shannon P. about Lower Portneuf Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Choose sites with recreational facilities. "There's a paved trail around all of the camp sites for bikes and skateboards and the owners are incredibly friendly," says Chris Y. about Mary's Campground.
Playground access: Some campgrounds provide dedicated play areas. "This campground is very kids friendly during summer months," comments Louis L. about the West KOA.
Water recreation: Tube rentals offer family-friendly river activities. "They have canoeing, rubber tubes, evokes, vespas and four wheelers available," adds Louis L. about recreation options near Lava Hot Springs.
Tips from RVers
Utility access: Water and electrical hookups vary by location. "May 2024 - This is a good stopping point for those who are passing through. There is a Flying J truck stop on the opposite side of I-15. They have fuel, propane, dump station ($10) and water," notes Aaron G. about facilities near Indian Rocks.
Pet-friendly accommodations: Many campgrounds accommodate four-legged travelers. "This is a safe spot for overnight. Nice views of mountains. There is highway noise. Camper trailers can manueuver without difficulty. TMobile works here," reports Cyndy & Selena R. about Indian Rocks Dispersed Camping, one of several dog friendly campgrounds near McCammon.
Campsite selection: Position matters for comfort and convenience. "The right is for camping, while the left is day use only. There's a very clean toilet well stocked with toilet paper," explains Aly D. about Blackrock Canyon Recreation Site, another pet-friendly option in the McCammon area.
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