Dispersed camping near Murphy Hot Springs, Idaho provides opportunities for primitive overnight stays in the high desert environment. The area sits at approximately 5,200 feet elevation where sagebrush plains meet rugged canyon country. Seasonal temperature fluctuations are extreme, with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing.
What to do
Fishing access points: Grey's Landing offers shoreline fishing opportunities along the water. As camper Chance S. notes, "Only stayed for a night, plenty of spots open. Easy to drive to. Stayed by the water, didn't drive up on the ridge."
Canyon exploration: Bruneau Canyon Overlook provides stunning views of the deep canyon formation. According to Thomas R., "Last 4 miles is on a washboard road. Magnificent views! Standard BLM toilet which isn't bad."
Rock formation viewing: Campers seeking geological features can find unique formations near Bonanza Gulch. Beth M. describes the approach: "The drive to this campsite is a mind blower. Excellent quality gravel road, crazy rock formations, pretty trees and crystal clear and accessible creek."
What campers like
Solitude in primitive settings: Many dispersed sites offer isolation from crowds. At BLM off 93 North NV, Tim D. found "Quiet and scenic with no amenities, simply a place to sleep overnight on a road trip. Highway 93 is in sight, but you can't hear it."
Waterfront accessibility: Some campsites provide direct water access. Emma T. notes about Grey's Landing: "This is a beautiful campsite right on the water but there are few site options. Great if you can snag a spot!"
Basic amenities at select sites: While most areas are completely undeveloped, some offer minimal facilities. Elsie R. mentions, "Pit toilet available. Can either camp by the water or on a higher road by the toilet, picnic table, and grill."
What you should know
Limited camping spaces: Many sites have restricted capacity. Patricia F. explains, "Nice but there seems to be only one real spot. We stayed along the gravel road since 'the' spot was taken."
Water safety concerns: Water bodies in the area may have seasonal hazards. Cora S. warns, "Beautiful and quiet. Stayed on a Tuesday night. No one else was camping but there were a few people fishing. There is a toxic algae bloom in the lake so we couldn't swim which was a disappointment."
Site positioning challenges: Uneven terrain can affect comfort. Volodymyr S. advises, "I'm absolutely satisfied with this place! The only thing that might bother you is the angle of the slope, try to find a flat spot."
Tips for camping with families
Restroom accessibility: When camping with children, consider sites with basic facilities. At Grey's Landing, Elsie R. mentions the availability of "Pit toilet available. Can either camp by the water or on a higher road by the toilet, picnic table, and grill."
Alternative swimming plans: Due to recurring algae issues in local waters, families should prepare alternative recreation. One camper notes, "Cannot swim in the water due to algae growth," making it important to plan other activities.
Traffic safety: Some primitive camping near Murphy Hot Springs has minimal vehicle traffic, creating safer environments for children. Tim D. describes one BLM area as "Quiet and scenic with no amenities... Highway 93 is in sight, but you can't hear it."
Tips from RVers
Road quality assessment: Access roads to primitive sites vary significantly in quality. Thomas R. warns about the approach to Bruneau Canyon Overlook: "Last 4 miles is on a washboard road. Magnificent views!"
Size limitations: Many dispersed areas have space constraints. Thomas R. continues, "The area is basically a wide turn around which could accommodate maybe one camper in a B or C class."
Alternative parking strategies: When designated areas are full, creative parking may be necessary. As Patricia F. explains about one popular site, "We stayed along the gravel road since 'the' spot was taken."
