Dispersed camping near Moyie Springs, Idaho centers primarily around the Kootenai and Kaniksu National Forests, where elevations range from 1,800 to over 7,000 feet. Winter camping is limited by heavy snowfall from November through April, with Forest Service roads typically closing until late spring. Most backcountry sites require high-clearance vehicles, and seasonal hunting activity increases campground competition during fall months.
What to do
Hiking with lake rewards: The 4.2-mile Beehive Lake trail offers a challenging trek to pristine alpine waters. "This hike-in lake campground is a true alpine treasure, but be prepared to work for it! The hike to get there is pretty strenuous, with some tough climbs along the way," notes Jason S. about Beehive Lake Dispersed.
Creek fishing access: Several dispersed sites provide direct water access for fishing native cutthroat and brook trout. "The river is about 35 yards from the site and the dirt road is about 20 yards from the main camping area," explains Marcus K. regarding Sullivan creek campground#2.
Backcountry navigation: Many trailheads double as overnight camping areas for early starts. "Cedar Creek trailhead is not officially a campground but the parking lot can be used for camping after 5PM. It is not a massive lot, but there is plenty of space for five or six tents or car campers," reports Clayton S.
What campers like
Riverside solitude: Secluded riverside camping spots offer privacy from other visitors. "There are several dispersed sites up here along Pack River. Good for horses, camping and solitude," according to T&A Adventures at Pack River Dispersed Site.
Trailhead convenience: Some areas provide simple overnight options for hikers. "Awesome single site adjacent to the Beehive Lakes trailhead parking lot," shares Matt S. about Beehives Lakes.
Natural water sources: Filtered creek water is available at many sites. "A spring runs next to the lot and if you have a filter, it makes for a great place to resupply on water," notes a Cedar Creek Trailhead visitor.
What you should know
Wildlife considerations: Bears and smaller wildlife frequently visit campsites. "Did have a late night bear visitor but was camping in my van so not too concerning," warns Jeanna A. at Sullivan Creek.
Limited amenities: Most areas lack basic facilities. "Not much to look at, but free. No amenities," Kyle M. shares about Clark Fork River Driftyard.
Road conditions: Access roads deteriorate significantly after rainfall. "Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites," cautions Emma T. about Pack River Dispersed Site.
Tips for camping with families
Secure food storage: Wildlife activity requires proper precautions. "The site has a bear box, and a fire ring. Make sure to bring proper toiletry supplies to use the old fashion style because the closet toilet is 2 miles away," advises Marcus K.
Site selection factors: Consider proximity to amenities when choosing a site. "We stayed at site #6 over Memorial Day weekend. At the site there was a bear box and a fire ring with a moveable grill cover. Some of the sites do have bathrooms," notes another Sullivan Creek visitor.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations can be significant. "The site has a lot of shade so depending on the time of year make sure to bring the weather appropriate clothing. During our stay it got very cold and we needed to use our heater," cautions a camper at Sheldon Mountain Trailhead Camp.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Few dispersed sites accommodate larger rigs. "It's Saturday and no one is here but me. Picnic tables, metal fire rings with grills, vault toilets. Big pretty pine trees! I get one bar of Verizon service but it's not very useful," reports Tee C.
Size constraints: Most suitable RV sites have length limitations. "The size of our site could fit two RVs and several tents (Our pop up tent trailer is 25ft)," notes Marcus K. about Sullivan Creek.
Boat access camping: Some riverside areas allow boat-in access. "This is a parking lot on a gravel road very close to the highway along Lake Pend Oreille's eastern shore. There is a boat launch. It is where the Clark Fork River empties into the Lake," explains Mike E. about Clark Fork Drift Yard.
