Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Murphy Hot Springs, ID
Sawmill Campground and Bonanza Gulch offer pet-friendly camping within a rugged wilderness setting near Murphy Hot Springs. Both locations welcome tent and RV camping with pets, requiring owners to keep dogs on leashes in public areas. Bonanza Gulch provides free dispersed camping with picnic tables and fire rings where pets can join campers at no additional fee. Sawmill features vault toilets and well-spaced campsites that accommodate pets year-round. Pine Creek Campground, located in a remote mountain setting with creek access, provides primitive pet-friendly sites that work well for campers seeking privacy with their animals. Most camping areas maintain standard pet policies including waste cleanup requirements and keeping pets under control at all times. Campsites remain quite clean with camp hosts regularly maintaining areas after guests depart.
The scenic drive to Bonanza Gulch includes excellent quality gravel roads with crystal clear creek access where dogs can cool off during summer months. Multiple hiking options throughout the Jarbidge Wilderness provide pet exercise opportunities, though owners should watch for wildlife encounters. The area receives limited cell coverage, with reliable service only available 35 miles east of Murphy Hot Springs, requiring pet owners to plan for veterinary emergencies accordingly. Seasonal considerations include significant winter access challenges when snow makes roads impassable. During summer, the reservoir areas at Wild Horse Recreation Area allow pets but require them to stay on leash and away from designated swimming beaches. Fishing spots throughout the region accommodate pets, though the significant cricket population at North Wild Horse Recreation Area might disturb some animals.
