Dispersed camping areas near Moore, Idaho sit within a high desert region at elevations between 5,500-6,000 feet. The Lost River Range dominates the landscape, creating dramatic temperature shifts from hot summer days to cool nights. Free camping options typically feature wide-open spaces with limited shade but exceptional mountain views, particularly during spring wildflower seasons when the desert blooms.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Big Lost River Dispersed provides direct access to one of the area's prime fishing spots. "Not bad for a 2-3 nighter. Right on Big Lost River, fishing might be good?" notes Christopher E. Water levels vary seasonally, with best conditions typically from June through August.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours offer chances to spot mule deer, ground squirrels, and various bird species. At Bear Creek Dispersed Campground, campers should "definitely keep an eye out for black bears" as Alan B. mentions. Bird watchers report seeing eagles and hawks hunting over the open terrain.
Off-road exploration: Many dispersed sites serve as starting points for ATV and motorcycle routes. Alan B. notes Bear Creek "is a good spot to ride around on your motorcycle or ATV and get some pristine alpine fishing in!" Most trails require high-clearance vehicles and basic navigation skills.
What campers like
Solitude: The remote nature of free camping near Moore attracts those seeking quiet. At Lake Creek Rd Dispersed, Beth describes finding "a gorgeous site, with a campfire pit already established. The site overlooks the pond, with the Sun Valley Ski Resort seen in the distance and has a gorgeous Mountain View on the opposite side. Absolutely stunning! Plenty of ground squirrels and butterflies and have only seen 2 cars all day."
Accessible water features: Many sites offer creek or river access. Tom P. at Big Lost River Dispersed appreciated the "surprisingly easy access. Clean and ADA accessible" nature of the campsites with "cleanliness of the pit toilets and nearby stream and fishing."
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. The open terrain provides unobstructed views of the night sky, with summer nights typically clear except during thunderstorm season. Meteor showers in August are particularly visible from higher elevation sites.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most free camping areas provide only basic amenities. At Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed, Liona L. notes "Great spots near a slow moving river with bathrooms and shade and picnic tables. The best dispersed camping I have ever found! No trash, so pack it out, and the toilets are buggy, but the scenery and privacy is worth it."
Weather considerations: The high desert climate brings significant temperature fluctuations. Ladd A. experienced unexpected weather at Lake Creek Rd: "Was June 22 and we got a little bit of snow overnight." Summer thunderstorms develop quickly, particularly in afternoon hours.
Stay limits: Regulations vary by location. Big Lost River enforces a 10-day maximum, while at Lake Creek Rd, "The first part of the road allows for 3-day max camping, but a little further in, you'll hit 16-day max stay!" according to Beth.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible wading spots: Streams provide safe water play areas for children. Jeremiah C. found Lake Creek Rd ideal because "The creek is perfect for dogs and kids to wade in. No bugs, clean, quiet and level for the camper."
Fire safety education: Teach children about fire restrictions which change seasonally. Laura M. notes at Lake Creek Rd: "A couple of the sites had stone fire pits but fire restrictions are in effect so no fires at this time."
Wildlife precautions: Birch Creek Camp and other areas require proper food storage. James W. describes it as a "decent spot if you need a place to stop in between Idaho Falls and salmon. Nice and quiet middle of nowhere spot for a middle of nowhere drive." Store food in vehicles overnight to avoid attracting wildlife.
Tips from RVers
Levelness assessment: Many dispersed sites require careful positioning. Gabriel M. at Mackay Reservoir Fishing Access reports: "Dirt road with loose gravel but my AWD suv had no problem towing my 30ft camper up and down to the waters edge."
Road condition awareness: Access roads vary significantly in quality. Mondo Moto Media cautions about Big Lost River Dispersed: "Amazing views even worth the bit of washboard road you must go over." Road conditions worsen significantly after rain or snow.
Cell service considerations: Service varies by location and carrier. At Lake Creek Rd, Laura M. found "Good ATT and Verizon cell reception" while other areas have limited or no service depending on surrounding terrain.
