Dispersed camping areas near Naples, Idaho offer primitive sites within the Kaniksu National Forest region at elevations ranging between 2,000-5,800 feet. The camping season typically runs May through October, with late summer bringing huckleberry gathering opportunities. Forest Service roads provide access to numerous unmarked sites where campers can establish temporary camps without designated facilities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several dispersed sites provide direct water access. At Clark Fork Drift Yard, campers report "met some really nice folks at the boat launch. Quiet after the boats get off the lake. They start showing up early for fishing but we don't mind that."
Hiking access: Forest trails lead to alpine environments and viewpoints. A camper at Beehives Lakes mentions "awesome single site adjacent to the Beehive Lakes trailhead parking lot," providing convenient trail access.
Water activities: Swimming and paddling opportunities exist at several locations. One visitor at Cooks Lake notes "the water was warm and we swam all day," adding that the mornings on the lake feature "the mist rising and the vast, green mountains, right in front of you."
What campers like
Seclusion: Many sites offer distance from other campers. At Sullivan creek campground#2, one reviewer appreciated that "the trees are fairly dense so the whole place is well shaded. Sullivan Creek is right there! Sullivan Lake is just a few miles to the east."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife populations. A camper at Cooks Lake observed "birds everywhere, woodpeckers in the birch trees and killdeer darting down to the water. Chipmunks and rabbits. Tadpoles and turtles and little water snakes."
Night skies: Minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. One camper simply noted "bats at night, and the stars!" when describing their experience at primitive camping sites near Naples.
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest roads require careful navigation. A visitor to Cedar Creek Trailhead noted it "is not officially a campground but the parking lot can be used for camping after 5PM. It is not massive lot, but there is plenty of space for five or six tents or car campers."
Water sources: Natural springs and creeks require treatment. The same Cedar Creek visitor mentioned "a spring runs next to the lot and if you have a filter, it makes for a great place to resupply on water."
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage. A camper at Cooks Lake warned "it is bear county so be sure to bring bear proof containers although it was so hot when we went that the wildlife was hiding out."
Toilet facilities: Most dispersed sites lack sanitation facilities. A visitor to Sullivan Creek Campground noted "no trash, water, toilet, or any amenities. There is an information sign and several rock rings for fires."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose areas with natural boundaries for safety. At Sheldon Mountain Trailhead Camp, a camper noted "picnic tables, metal fire rings with grills, vault toilets. Big pretty pine trees," making it more suitable for family camping.
Wildlife education: The area provides opportunities for nature observation. A Cooks Lake visitor described how their family encountered "tadpoles and turtles and little water snakes," creating natural learning experiences.
Seasonal planning: Weather patterns affect camping comfort significantly. A Sullivan Creek camper advised that "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."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Forest roads limit larger vehicles. At Pack River Dispersed Site, a camper warned about "lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites."
Level parking: Finding flat sites requires scouting. One visitor to Cooks Lake mentioned "at least 2 of them are good for my trailer although I wouldn't try if you're not experienced with towing. The road to get there was approx six miles of gravel winding single lane road."
Ground conditions: Seasonal moisture affects accessibility. A camper at Cooks Lake warned others to "beware of mud!" after finding themselves "barely on the edge of lake bottom mud. Didn't get out till the next morning."
