Best Dispersed Camping near Ola, ID
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Best Dispersed Sites Near Ola, Idaho (13)
1. Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
18 Reviews•47 Photos•372 SavesIdaho City, Idaho- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
2. Mann Creek Recreation Area
6 Reviews•22 Photos•20 SavesWeiser, IdahoOverview
Mann Creek Campground is located near the Mann Creek Reservoir in the foothills of the West Central Mountains in western Idaho near the Payette National Forest. The reservoir is a popular boating and fishing destination. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.
Recreation
The reservoir offers 283 surface-acres of water and five miles of shoreline, although the water level fluctuates seasonally. Visitors enjoy boating, canoeing, swimming and trout fishing.
Natural Features
Mann Creek Reservoir lies in the rolling and arid foothills of the Hitt Mountains. At an elevation of 3,300 feet, the area is hot and dry in the summer months. Large shade trees help block some of the intense sun, but shade is limited.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (208) 549-4200.
- Pets
- Reservable
- RVs
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Toilets
$10 - $15 / night
3. Oasis Recreation Site
11 Reviews•31 Photos•96 SavesWeiser, Idaho- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
- Picnic Table
5. Boise National Forest Willow Creek Campground (Mountain Home)
4 Reviews•8 Photos•167 SavesIdaho City, IdahoOverview: Willow Creek Campground is located along the Middle Fork of the Boise River Forest Service (FS) road 268 and the north end of the Arrowrock Reservior. There are 9 campsites at the campground. A stay at the campground enables guests to enjoy all the beauty and recreation offered along the river and reservoir. Weather is usually good from mid-May through late September and is easily accessible by car in good weather, although the road is sometimes rough and the drive can be seemingly long. Checking with the District on road conditions before heading out is recommended. Natural Features: Wildlife watchers may want to look for deer and elk. Waterfowl, eagles and osprey are attracted to the river. Recreation: There are several trails in the area including trail #189 beginning near Cottonwood Campground, leading to Bald Mountain Peak. Check the Idaho City Ranger District Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) for trails in the area that are open to hikers, equestrians, mountain bikers and off-road vehicles. Click here for an Idaho OHV safety message. The Middle Fork Boise River and Arrowrock Reservoir offer excellent trout fishing and good swimming holes. Big game hunting is a popular activity in season.
- Pets
- Fires
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
- Alcohol
6. Mores Creek by Steamboat Gulch
1 Review•2 Photos•70 SavesIdaho City, Idaho- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
7. Irish Point Dispersed Camp Ground
4 Reviews•16 Photos•148 SavesIdaho City, IdahoIrish Point is situated on the north shore of Arrowrock Lake. The hills are sagebrush covered with a few pine trees in the valleys. The camping sites have mature trees for shade. This is fairly isolated as the access road is rough and slow. This camping area is a good example of what is available at several spots along the road except Irish Point has an outhouse toilet available.
Campsites: There are no developed camping sites here. People have camped here for many years because of the trees. There are stone fire rings but no tables.
Water: No water.
Garbage Services: No garbage service here.
Restroom: There is one older outhouse toilet here.
Handicap Accessible: This is not handicap accessible.
Pets: Pets should be on a leash, however, this is not practiced from our observations.
Recreation: The main attractions here are camping and fishing. I am sure bird and wildlife watching are also available. We saw many four wheelers and motorcycles in the camps as well.
Fishing: Fishing is available in Arrowrock Lake for trout, bass and crappie. There are some small streams in the area which would also have trout fishing.
Boating: There is a boat ramp a few miles away.
Wildlife: There are deer tracks everywhere but we did not actually see the deer. There are also elk and geese seen here.
Phone service: No phone, we also had no cell service on our ATT phones.
Nearby Services: No services closer than Spring Shores Marina 13 miles away, which has a convenience store for ice, gas, drinks, telephone and other supplies, even a sheriffs office.
RV Dumping Site: The nearest RV dumping station is at Boise, Idaho.
Location/Driving instructions: Take Highway 21 NE from Boise to Arrowrock Road(turn right) then Irish Point is 14 miles. This road is a slow gravel winding road.
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
10. Rapid Creek Dispersed Camping Area
1 Review•4 Photos•44 SavesSpink, IdahoThis is a small, quiet two-unit dispersed camping area located in the Paddy Flat area. Adjacent to Rapid Creek. Tables, fire rings and toilet available on site.
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Picnic Table
Recent Dispersed Reviews near Ola, Idaho
33 Reviews of 13 Ola Campgrounds
- m
mitch C.
Guide
Irish Point Dispersed Camp Ground
Awesome reservoir
Free camping among the sparsely located pine trees. Great views of the water and mountains. Vault toilet nearby.
- EEric Y.Guide
Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
Irish Point
We camped at Irish Point at Arrowhead's designated dispersed camping area. The road around the reservoir is pretty tight, though that doesn't discourage long trailers and toy haulers. We're pretty self-contained so didn't miss any usual camp ground amenities. Our neighbors were sparse and quiet and we enjoyed the peace of this area.
- LLeah G.
Traveler
Herrick Reservoir Access
Just ok
Camping is free, limit of 10 days. Not really any designated sites and surrounded by private land with aggressive signage. Not all roads around the reservoir are public, so be prepared to turn around and back up at dead ends. We came to an orange gate that said "private property", and stopped. While trying to turn around, we noticed a white truck sitting behind us. When we turned around and passed him, he motioned to roll down the window, and then berated us and called us idiots, even though we had not even entered the private land, nor did we want to. We felt threatened. In the end we chose a site on the upper road of the reservoir. The view was nice but not close to the pit toilet. No fire ring. No table. A no frills place. Like many lakes in Idaho, the reservoir is mostly dry. Not a huge deal but not the prettiest to look at. There is only one single pit toilet for the whole reservoir and someone was set up right next to it like it was their own. People ride off-road vehicles here. In an area with slim pickings for free camping, I guess you have to take what you can get.
- KKevin C.Guide
Rapid Creek Dispersed Camping Area
Great secluded spot
The fir trees stand tall and still. I can’t figure out if they are waiting for something to happen or if they simply don’t care.
If you’re looking for sone sort of gorgeous panorama, this might not be the place for you. It’s really just a small meadow in the mountains that the BLM put a vault toilet and a couple of fire rings in. That being said, this place is beautiful.
You can’t see rapid creek from the campground but you can hear it. And that’s really just as good. The white noise from the creek matched with the occasional bird or other nature sound is one of the most relaxing things on the planet.
It’s high enough in elevation that this place gets nippy at night. I stayed in early August and the temps dropped into the upper 30s at night.
The campground is well maintained and the vault toilet was reasonably clean when I arrived. It became Kevin clean shortly after I set up camp.
There are trails from both sites near the vault toilet that lead down to Rapid Creek.
I never saw any bear scat but signs on the property warn of them so be smart with your food.
All in all, Rapid Creek dispersed camping is excellent if you just want a quiet place where no one is around. It’s amazing but not for the reasons people usually like in my opinion. ◦
- lleeTraveler
Mores Creek by Steamboat Gulch
good for a short stay
A variety of free and dispersed sites, most of them with rock campfire rings, near a nice shallow creek. A fair amount of RV and ATV traffic but still feels pretty secluded. No bathrooms or anything like that but it's only a 3 minute drive from Idaho City.
ChristineTraveler
Mann Creek Recreation Area
Gorgeous, safe and quiet
Great place to stop on our drive from CA to ID. The other campground is just a few hundred yards up the road and it is a very park like gorgeous setting with restrooms. It was completely full on a weekday so we came to the primitive site. Wonderful. Level. Lots of respectful families Boondocking. We parked with our carryall trailer and our two vehicles and slept in our truck. What a gorgeous view and skies to wake up to. There’s a day use area further south that you can stop at on your way out for the restroom. If we go this way again, we will definitely stop here. Follow the directions, not the GPS coordinates. There is two roads to get in more creek and man creek. More creek will make you wish you had a sports bra on and a new suspension for your car when your finally get to pavement...
Tee C.
LegendArrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
Rough road but beautiful location
Entering the park is beautiful! There’s a paved road with campsites you need a reservation for. Where the coordinates are on this map is about 30 minutes down a gravel road that looks ok, but is very rutted. I drive a cargo van and it shook everything to the point where I didn’t want to do 30 minutes of it. There are signs that say “no roadside camping next 7 miles”, but after mile marker 7, you’ll notice fire rings off the sides of the roads on both sides, including lake front. So I just want to make sure y’all know that you don’t actually have to drive all the way down to the dispersed spots to find camping. Other than that, it’s a gorgeous area. No Verizon service for me.
- LLaurie W.Traveler
Mann Creek Recreation Area
Fishing and more
Has designated campsites and primitive large campsites if you are willing to drive in a ways. Its a wonderful place to camp or just spend time fishing the day away.
No fire rings are in the primitive area so if you want fire and there is a ban your out of luck. Very limited shade
- LLaurie W.Traveler
Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
Good place to swim and boat
So hot and no shade. If it were not close to the water you may not have a way to beat the heat. It was beyond crowded and hard to find a secluded spot to camp away from others. Only pro is its close to town and you can swim, fish, and boat.
Katie F.GuideArrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
Uncrowded desert camping along the water
Arrowrock Reservoir is a decent place to camp. The drive there is long and slow-going along a washboard dirt road, but the best part is that this spot is usually uncrowded, which is nice when you are looking for some quiet solitude. It's a steep hike down to the water in the reservoir, but not too bad. The camp sites are nice and have some pine trees, but other than that, the landscape is very desert-y.
ConnerGuideArrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
If you want lake access this place is magical
There are many group sites and single sites. Many sites own a corner turn. Also your entire campsite will be visible to every car passing. There are other sites on the other side of the road that are more private. Be wary the road is very dangerous getting in. Take it slow.
Some people park their trailers at lake front but beware of the dune sand , you might get stuck.
I love being able to jump into the lake and ride my bike along the lake.
T
- Laura C.Guide
Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
Private
Me and boyfriend enjoy going here in the fall and spring to get away from the city for a day or two. There is hiking right across the street. Mt Heinen which is a very strenous hike. Its over 9 miles(up and back) and over a 3,000 ft gain so be prepared if you try to tackle this summit. Anyways, the campground has some fire pits but no picnic tables. There are a few trees for shade. One part of this campground that confuses me is that there use to be a small outhouse in summer of 2018 but when I came in 2019 in march and April there was not one? When we come in the fall and spring theres no one other than us there. In the summer it does get quite a few people there. Also it gets super hot in the summertime so be sure to bring plenty of water. Good thing is you can take a dip in the cold reservoir to cool off. There's no trash services so pack it in and pack it out. A lot of people come here to party and leave trash around so i make it a point to pick it up. Please don't be those people to ruin a beautiful free spot. 💚
Amy S.LegendMann Creek Recreation Area
Beautiful Reservoir
This is a great area. There is camping around the reservoir and at the near by campground. Up past the reservoir there are roads to ride ATV's. There is not a lot of shade and it gets hot in the summer. Spring and fall are really nice times of year here.
- Amy S.Legend
Mann Creek Recreation Area
Awesome spot!
This is a great campground near the reservoir. Lots of shade trees, almost a park like setting. Plenty of room to roam from this base camp. It does get pretty hot in the summer.
Will M.GuideMann Creek Recreation Area
Not a bad place
Nice oasis. Clean bathrooms and good sized sites. Even sites have the table and pit on the back side of your trailer. Lots of skeeters to take your spray. We also ran into a couple bull snakes.
- Hanah O.Traveler
Mann Creek Recreation Area
Cute
I’d go back here for sure nice person runs the place and the lots are big enough you don’t hear your neighbors.
Simran D.GuideArrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
Classic Idaho
Honestly one of the best places close to the city. Far enough away that you still get out of service, a good view of the stars, a swim, and some magnificent overall views. Nothing like waking up here. 40 minutes from downtown Boise
- Eden T.Traveler
Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
Beach camping at Arrowrock
Arrowrock is a great and easy weekend get away. It’s only about 1.5 hours from Boise. It can get very crowded on holidays and weekends though so try to arrive early. Most people just camp out on the beach wherever you can find space. If you have a boat you can put it in the water right off the beach and camp next to it.
- Brett P.Guide
Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
Tons of beach area, not many people!
Be careful as the drive is a little sketchy. The water is clean and there is tons of beach area! Bring the kayaks and get paddling!
- Bryan R.
ScoutArrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
Easy place
Gets busy in the summer
- BBrianna S.Traveler
Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
RAV4 Camping
Awesome place! Like some of the others said, drive in could be a bit sketchy it you’re towing or have a large vehicle - but we passed plenty of boats/RV’s, just have to go slow. There’s multiple spaces and if you’re not too specific about being near the water, you can have some decent privacy.
April S.TravelerArrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
Fun for the day!
This was a super fun spot to go play in the water for the day. Only thing I would change is the fact that there is no shade. The weather wasn’t great so while camping at night, it was crazy windy which was rough haha. Also, there were people blasting loud music until super late, but otherwise this is a nice spot.
- John T.Scout
Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
Arrowrock off season
Super great spot that is close to town - pro's and con's are already covered and i agree - especially packing out more than you pack in as trash spoils the appeal. Driving a large bed camper isn't so bad but is slower for sure and the narrow spots can be sketchy with multi-vehicle with trailers meeting there. I like the shoulder seasons best - wish i had a boat to add additional fun. Your results might vary but I've had nothing but fun in the area.
Caley M.GuideArrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
Quiet and free, Dispersed
We drove way past Lucky Peak Res until we saw trees. There are 2 pull offs here with lots of spots to camp. There are lots of firepits around the area and water access. Cool spot.
Elise S.GuideArrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
So pretty
Loved this spot! Parked our tow behind camper right on the beach. It is very muddy so don’t get too close to the shore, we had to help two vehicles get out of the mud. Also very buggy which is why is lost a star
Alireza V.ScoutArrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
Beautiful
If you don’t have a four wheel drive vehicle don’t go, all wheel drive won’t do it in winter.
Mike E.LegendArrowrock Reservoir Dispersed
Beautiful area, lousy road
The road is severely pot-holed. with many lengths being 4-ish MPH if you are towing a trailer. This road is mainly good for razors and toy haulers, not RVs. Many spots are 1 lane only. There are also washouts intruding into the roadway making it a little tight to get by for a pickup truck sized vehicle
Guide to Ola
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Ola, Idaho, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you'll be able to enjoy the great outdoors in peace.
Dispersed campers should check out Herrick Reservoir Access
- This area offers free camping with a limit of 10 days, making it a great choice for those looking to extend their stay without the hassle of fees. Check it out at Herrick Reservoir Access.
- While there are no designated sites, the views around the reservoir are quite nice, providing a picturesque backdrop for your camping experience.
- Be cautious of private land surrounding the area, as some roads may not be public, which could lead to unexpected encounters.
Tips for free and dispersed camping near Ola, Idaho
- Consider visiting Mann Creek Recreation Area for a well-reviewed spot that features clean facilities and ample space for both tents and RVs.
- If you're looking for a more secluded experience, Mores Creek by Steamboat Gulch offers a variety of free sites near a shallow creek, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of tranquility.
- For a unique experience, check out Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed, where you can park right on the beach, but be mindful of muddy conditions.
Scenic spots for dispersed camping enthusiasts
- Irish Point Dispersed Camp Ground provides stunning views of the water and mountains, making it a beautiful location for nature photography and relaxation.
- If you're up for a bit of a drive, Willow Creek Campground is known for its fishing opportunities and picturesque surroundings, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
- For those who appreciate a bit of adventure, Rapid Creek Dispersed Camping Area offers a serene atmosphere with the soothing sounds of the creek nearby, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Ola, ID?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Ola, ID is Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed with a 4.1-star rating from 18 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Ola, ID?
TheDyrt.com has all 13 dispersed camping locations near Ola, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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