Dispersed camping near Montpelier, Idaho offers primitive overnight options in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and surrounding areas. Located in southeastern Idaho at approximately 6,000 feet elevation, this region experiences warm summer days and cool nights with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Most rustic camping sites around Montpelier lack developed facilities but provide access to mountain streams and wildlife viewing areas within 30-45 minutes of town.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Diamond Creek Guard Station, visitors can observe local wildlife. "There is a spot to hang your hammock. You can relax by the fire pit or read a book on one of the two picnic tables provided," notes camper Jasmine C.
Trail exploration: The areas surrounding Green Canyon Dispersed Campground offer numerous hiking and biking options. "Tons of little spots along a gravel road. Fire rings and multiple clean bathrooms are available. Also tons of trails and mountain bikers," reports Ruby W.
Fishing access: Many dispersed sites provide river access for fishing. At Smithfield Dispersed Campsite, you'll find "a very pretty canyon with a creek running through it," according to Brendan J., making it ideal for fishing enthusiasts.
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Campers appreciate the remote feeling at many sites. Kennedy F. reported about Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping: "Ended up driving this road up to Idaho to find a bigger spot and some solitude. Took the dirt road for about 30 minutes and got the most perfect spot. Nobody was near us and the view was amazing."
Water features: Access to creeks and rivers ranks high for campers. "It's a very pretty canyon with a creek running through it. Would recommend," says Brendan J. about Smithfield Dispersed Campsite.
Mountain scenery: The views from many sites provide a main attraction. At Fossil Butte National Monument BLM, campers find "spectacular views!" according to Tim and Kate O., who also noted "beautiful and remote area 10 miles up the road from the Visitor's Center."
What you should know
Road conditions vary widely: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. At Salt River Pass, Josh L. warns: "The suggestion that you need a high clearance vehicle is an understatement. The service road is incredibly rocky with one side a sheer drop. Went down with our campervan and barely made it down and back up in one piece."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans are common during summer months. Check with local ranger stations before planning campfires.
Wildlife encounters: Cattle frequently roam through some camping areas. "Only annoying thing when we were there was there was a lot of cattle coming into our camp all the time," reports Brad C. about Diamond Creek Guard Station.
Limited amenities: Most sites have no facilities. At Palisades Reservoir, "There are no amenities at the campground... Only fire pits available. No tables, bathrooms, nothing. So please practice good camping etiquette and pack out everything."
Tips for camping with families
Timing is important: Weekdays offer more site availability. "I would be cautious if you aren't car camping to make sure you show up earlier than I did (6pm)," advises Maddie F. about Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping.
Weather preparedness: Mountain temperatures fluctuate dramatically. Kennedy F. notes about Franklin Basin: "We went at the beginning of June, it was a bit chilly some mornings and at night, so come prepared."
Bug protection: Insects can be problematic in certain areas. "If you camp way further down the mosquitos are absolutely miserable," warns Maddie F. about Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping.
Site selection: Look for established fire rings and flat spaces. "Most of the spots are pretty small and would only work for one or two tents or maybe a couple of hammocks," explains Brendan J. about Smithfield Dispersed Campsite.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many roads narrow considerably, limiting RV access. Sarah C. reports about Smithfield Dispersed Camping: "No warning that the road narrows with no turn around about a mile into the campground, or the trees are overgrown which scratched up my sides."
Traction challenges: Loose gravel roads cause difficulties for heavier vehicles. One RVer noted about Fossil Butte National Monument: "We have a 15k pound fifth wheel and a 2wd dually and were only able to make it a couple 100 yds up the hill before we started spinning."
Larger rigs: For those with bigger vehicles, johny R. recommends the lower section of Franklin Basin Road: "This is the big rig area. There are also a few dispersed spots down in this lower area. NO cell phone signal at all. This area is not scenic like the upper section but is for fast easy access."
