Multiple dispersed camping sites dot the forested areas near Nordman, Idaho, particularly along Sullivan Creek Road. Free dispersed campsites range from primitive spots along Pack River with river access to hike-in opportunities at Beehive Lake. Most sites are free with basic amenities like fire rings, though Sullivan Creek sites offer vault toilets and bear boxes. One camper notes that along Sullivan Creek there are "over 30 sites along the river over several miles. Some of them do not have numbers. All the sites are first come and are Free."
Road conditions can be challenging on forest service roads leading to more remote sites. Pack River Dispersed Site features "washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites." The Beehive Lake trail requires a strenuous hike and isn't well-marked, but rewards visitors with an alpine lake. Visitors should be prepared for wildlife encounters including bears and mice. Most sites operate on a 14-day limit and practice pack-in, pack-out principles for waste management. Camping in this public land requires self-sufficiency, as one visitor advises: "Remember to leave no trace and pack out your trash!"
"Was a bit challenging to find at first but once we found the right turn off it was simple."
"Can be accessed through the boat launching ramp that’s a bit ahead on the road. There are also several different off road paths that lead the some great camping spots in the area."
"The campgrounds are located on Sullivan Creek Rd that runs along Sullivan Creek. There over 30 sites along the river over several miles. Some of them do not have numbers."
"I found this awesome little campground on my way to Sullivan Lake from Metaline Falls. It is just off the main road, next to Sullivan Creek."
"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."
"Awesome single site adjacent to the Beehive Lakes trailhead parking lot."
"There are several dispersed sites up here along Pack River. Good for horses, camping and solitude."
"No one else around. Pit toilet by site 4. Site 5 & 6 are off together. No bug issue"
"I was surprised at the location and the really cool Hydro Electric Dam!"
"Around 10 sites with free firewood, washrooms, drinking water and a small lagoon for swimming. Did I mention it’s free??"
"Nearby campsites are far enough away that you have plenty of privacy. There is a creek that runs through this area, which is great for cooling off on hot days."
"Cute little dispersed campground approx 6 sites. At least 2 of them are good for me trailer although I wouldn't try if you're not experienced with towing."
"Swimming/small boat access is through the main campground."
RangerTwo parking areas and boat ramp parking with a porta potty. Room for 3-4 units in each parking area. Train pretty loud and traffic from main road noticeable. No water and no trash service. I would stay again.
TravelerVery easy for big rigs. First area is huge "parking lot" type area. Second area is by the boat ramp. There are about 3 spots on a loop, two large fifth wheels were able to get in there. These are right along the water. We ended up at the North end of the boat ramp parking. We stayed three days. A lot of boats in and out, but we didn't mind at all. Train in the near distance, also didn't mind this. The water is wonderful. Very clear. We took our SUP's out one day.
GuideAfter checking all the campsites in the area and finding them full, we had no choice but to check out the one dispersed campground in the area, which was Clark Fork River Driftyard. The name did not sound appealing, but we went to check it out and were pleasantly surprised. When we arrived midweek, there were already two campers along the riverbank, but the prime spot right in the corner was already taken with great access to the river but as soon as that person moved the following day, we took this spot and it was gorgeous. The only downside was an inconsiderate camper who refused to put his big dog on a leash, and that made us very uncomfortable, which caused us to leave early:( No luck with fishing but had fun paddle boarding on the river. Free with 3 day max stay.
GuideI had a great time here with my huskies and my cat. I updated the location here on The Dyrt app. The exact address is 3399 Sand Canyon Rd, Chewelah, WA. There are at least 10 dispersed fire rings. Many of the sites have direct access to the creek. There are multiple trails that go up and down both sides of the creek and many logs that have fallen over it so you can walk across to the other side. The entire creek is fully shaded by trees and doesn’t get much sun. It only gets to about knee-deep in some parts - it’s July right now. People use this area for snow activities in the winter. There are many large areas with hard packed dirt that are relatively level and good for big rigs. There is one pit toilet bathroom that I can see and a few picnic tables. This is an active logging road right now so trucks go by every hour or so. There is definitely wildlife out here. Be cautious for bears and other large predators. I have seen wild turkeys, squirrels, tons of different birds, butterflies, and something large ran behind our campsite last night. There is plenty of shade and also plenty of open areas for setting up solar panels with all day sun. There is no cell service up here, but Starlink works great. The creek is beautiful and clear and cold. So refreshing and if you really needed to drink it, you probably could. I have not seen any hiking trails per se, however, you could walk up and down the logging roads and explore the forest line pretty easily in many parts. If you go up the logging road to the right, there is an old mine that you can access. There seems to be little pathways spread out randomly through the forest as you continue down the road. This is the perfect spot for boondocking, unless you’re worried about cell service. I’ve been able to leave my dogs off leash and they are so happy to run free through the creek and around the fields and through the forest. This place really does have so much to offer. We’re here by ourselves right now, so we have the luxury of privacy and perfect quietness to enjoy the sound of the creek and the bugs and the birds.
ScoutThe sites were mostly full when we got there mid day Saturday but they’re well maintained, private, some are next to the river, and the area is beautiful.
GuideI showed up at 7:30 on a Thursday and I was sure there wasn’t gonna be a spot for me, but there was! Only like 2 spots on the water (3 if you make it work) but it’s very very nice on the water. I got a spot with a bunch of floating docks infront of the shoreline and I was upset with them at first but i ended up eating on them and laying on them, was very chill like private docks. If you need a place to sleep this is also your place, along with the water spots there’s a couple huge parking lots that a bunch of people posted up in, and i think you can boat up to other campsites down the river. 10/10 if your on the water
TravelerWas a bit challenging to find at first but once we found the right turn off it was simple. It was a bit loud because of the highway but if you follow the path down, there is more spots away from the road. Plenty of space in between sites if you want to be more secluded. The first site has 3 closer together for bigger groups.
Ranger4 wheel drive needs for lots of these roads. This main campsite has glass and garbage, but there are campsites all through here. Keep in mind lots of bear sign and cougars. Free dispersed national forest.
GuideVery nice and secluded area right on the river bed. Can be accessed through the boat launching ramp that’s a bit ahead on the road. There are also several different off road paths that lead the some great camping spots in the area.
Dispersed camping near Nordman, Idaho offers primitive sites across the heavily forested Selkirk Mountains. Elevation ranges from 2,500 to 6,000 feet, creating diverse camping environments with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F days and 45-55°F nights. Winter access is limited as most forest service roads remain unplowed from November through April.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple creek-side camping areas provide direct water access for anglers. At Sullivan creek campground#2, one camper notes: "The site is near the river (multiple paths for easy access), has a bear box, and a fire ring." The creeks and nearby lakes contain trout species.
Creek swimming: During summer months, several sites offer small swimming areas. At Cee Cee Ah Creek, "There is a creek that runs through this area, which is great for cooling off on hot days." Water temperatures remain cold even in summer, rarely exceeding 65°F.
Alpine lake hiking: Several trailheads near camping areas lead to high mountain lakes. The Beehive Lake trail, while challenging, rewards hikers with "clear, pristine water surrounded by rugged mountain scenery." Plan for full-day hikes with elevation gains of 1,000+ feet to reach alpine destinations.
Secluded sites: Most dispersed sites offer significant privacy from neighboring campers. At North Fork Chewelah Creek, "Nearby campsites are far enough away that you have plenty of privacy." Sites are typically spaced 100+ yards apart along forest roads.
Water proximity: Many campsites sit directly beside creeks or rivers. At Priest Lake Dispersed Camping, campers enjoy a "Very nice and secluded area right on the river bed." Most water-adjacent sites fill quickly during summer weekends.
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts diverse wildlife including deer, elk, and numerous bird species. At Sullivan Creek, one camper reported: "Did have a late night bear visitor but was camping in my van so not too concerning." Dawn and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Road conditions: Forest service roads accessing many sites can be challenging. At Pack River Dispersed Site, campers note "Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites." High-clearance vehicles recommended for most areas.
Limited amenities: Most sites have minimal facilities. Sullivan Creek sites include fire rings and some have bear boxes. One camper advises: "Make sure to bring proper toiletry supplies to use the old fashion style because the closet toilet is 2 miles away."
Wildlife preparation: Bear activity requires proper food storage. At Cooks Lake, one camper reminds: "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." Small rodents can also be problematic at some sites.
Swimming spots: Several sites offer small, shallow water access points suitable for children. At Cooks Lake, "The water was warm and we swam all day. Bats at night, and the stars!! Excellent camping experience."
Site selection: Look for established sites with level ground for tents. At North Fork Chewelah Creek, "The main camp area is completely shaded keeping things cool. The camp is very close to the creek." Shaded sites help maintain comfortable temperatures for children.
Wildlife education: The area provides opportunities to observe and learn about forest creatures. One camper at Cooks Lake noted seeing "Birds everywhere, woodpeckers in the birch trees and killdeer darting down to the water. Chipmunks and rabbits. Tadpoles and turtles and little water snakes."
Site accessibility: Many dispersed areas can accommodate smaller RVs and trailers. At Beehives Lakes, there's an "Awesome single site adjacent to the Beehive Lakes trailhead parking lot," providing convenient overnight parking for smaller rigs.
Level sites: Look for established pull-offs with relatively flat ground. At Cooks Lake, one RVer noted: "Cute little dispersed campground approx 6 sites. At least 2 of them are good for my trailer although I wouldn't try if you're not experienced with towing."
Turn-around space: Many forest service roads lack adequate turning areas for larger vehicles. North Fork Chewelah Creek offers "a loop off the main road and there are several camp sites along the creek," making it easier to maneuver without backing up long distances.
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