Dispersed camping spots near Pollock, Idaho offer rustic alternatives to established campgrounds. The area sits within the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests at elevations ranging from 1,800 feet along the Salmon River to over 7,000 feet in the Seven Devils Mountains. Summer temperatures at higher elevations remain moderate, with nighttime lows in the 40s even during July and August.
What to do
Wildlife viewing year-round: The mountains and river corridors host diverse wildlife. At Shorts Bar Recreation Site, campers report, "Nice sandy beaches for those that want to relax near the roaring sound of the river. Great salmon and smallmouth fishing upstream or downstream... There is an Elk Farm on the other side of the road up the hill from the campsites."
Lake activities: Several high-elevation lakes provide fishing and paddling opportunities. At Hazard Lake, "The lake itself is fairly small but many campers kayak or paddle board on it. Lots of fishing as well." The campground offers a quieter alternative to river sites during July-September.
Mountain hiking: The Seven Devils area contains extensive trail networks. One camper at Windy Saddle Trailhead Campground described it as "perfect site at the head of the trail over looking hell's canyon and Heaven's gate. Had an absolutely gorgeous view of the devils peaks easy access to trails, devils lake, Heaven's gate trail."
What campers like
Riverside camping: Direct water access ranks as a top feature. At Island Bar Recreation Site, visitors appreciate that "You can sleep right on the beach or up in the trees. Bring your own water but there are vault toilets... Wake up to amazing views of the river, you can put your boat in upstream and float down to your site."
Solitude and views: Less-developed sites provide quiet and scenery. The Little Salmon River Pullout offers free dispersed camping with river access. A camper noted, "This is a little pullout off route 95. Has about 10-15 feet of separation from main road, which gives privacy and protection from cars... This is also right on little salmon river."
Beach access: Sandy shorelines provide recreation space. Shorts Bar Recreation Site features "Camped out on the bar and it was nice! There is area to pull up your RV too as well. Good fishing spot!" The beach areas remain accessible most of the year except during spring runoff.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Most dispersed sites lack potable water. At Hazard Lake, "The water pump was out of order due to the test for purity was not processed yet. Bring extra rolls of toilet paper because the outhouses (while they were good) were not resupplied over the weekend."
Road conditions: Access to higher elevation sites requires careful driving. For Seven Devils Campground, "Driving is single car, narrow, bumpy dirt roads. Be prepared to back up a ways when you encounter another vehicle. Also look out for mountain cows 🐄 they like to be in the road. I would not take an RV."
Capacity and timing: Campgrounds fill quickly during peak periods. At Hazard Lake, "I got in at 4pm on a Friday and there were only 2 spots left." Several primitive sites operate seasonally, with most high-elevation locations closed by early October.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: River sites require supervision. Island Bar has "cliffs for jumping off and hikes can be found along the way. Lots of wildlife to see." Parents should know the area contains "snakes and spiders as this is a desert zone so be careful!"
Wildlife teaching moments: The diverse ecosystem offers educational opportunities. At Shorts Bar, "This is a busy site, lots of paddler traffic, but does make for a nice evening by the river. Bonus elk farm on the ridge, at the right season you might hear them bugle."
Simple amenities: Most sites provide basic facilities only. Seven Devils Campground offers "10 free sites first come first serve. Vaulted toilets BYOT (bring your own toilet paper). Hidden lake within short walk. Picnic tables, fire pits. Great lookout spots."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many forest roads restrict larger vehicles. At Canyon Pines RV Resort, an alternative for those with larger rigs, "Very relaxing and quiet spot. If you have a smaller camper, find a spot next to the river!"
Hookup options: Most dispersed sites lack services. For hookups, Canyon Pines offers "level gravel sites surrounded by lush grass. Each site had a nice picnic table and fire pit... There is a camp store that has just about everything you might need including a good selection of wine and beer."
Off-grid preparation: Come equipped for self-sufficiency. RVers note Shorts Bar "is dry camping and they do have some restrooms in the area." Another camper mentioned it works well as "a wide-open parking lot where you can park on the edge above the river or even next to the toilet facilities for quick access."
