Are you in need of a campground near Orofino, ID? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Idaho camping has to offer. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Orofino. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.
"Many free dispersed camping site for several miles. There is also low cost Campgrounds available as well. There is a small local store nearby. Dump site on edge of town with trash available."
"Trailhead view is beautiful. Hike is down to the Snake River, which is over 5 miles each way. Major elevation change. Parking is free for up to 48 hours. No amenities."
"Great peaceful mountain lake setting with elk often on the hillside above located on the historic lolo motorway not suitable for low clearance vehicles but it is a beautiful place to go get away"
"There was a cow moose feeding in the lake when we were there. She would stomp around up to her neck in the lake, then eat the plants that would float to the surface."
"While this is not my favorite spot, it’s very close to where I live. This is my go to spot when I just want to get a quick overnight camp in."
"If a backpacking trip in to a wilderness area with a hot springs next to your campsite sounds like the perfect trip, then Stanley Hot Springs is for you. "
"This campground is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out area close to the swiftly flowing Marble Creek."
LegendIf a backpacking trip in to a wilderness area with a hot springs next to your campsite sounds like the perfect trip, then Stanley Hot Springs is for you. Stanley Hot Springs located in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness is just under a 5 mile hike from the trail head located in the Wilderness Gateway Campground. The trip in to the hot springs gains about 1500 feet, but the climb is worth it as you get to soak your tired legs after the hike.
Plenty of campsites can be found around and near the Hot Springs. Water can be filtered from the near by creek. You are backpacking so be prepared to bring out everything you bring in. You are also in Bear Territory so be prepared to hang your food in a tree and bring bear spray.
Getting to the hot springs can be a little tricky as their is no bridge over the creek, so you will have to ford the creek, unless you can find a series of log jams to cross on. Best bet for finding you way is to ask someone hiking out for suggestions on crossing the creek.
The creek crossing will not be possible in the spring or during high water flows. We managed an easy crossing over log jams in July, but others a week earlier forded the creek in waist deep water.
The area was clean during our visit, so please keep it that way.
TravelerTrailhead view is beautiful. Hike is down to the Snake River, which is over 5 miles each way. Major elevation change. Parking is free for up to 48 hours. No amenities. Small store and restaurant nearby.
RangerWhile this is not my favorite spot, it’s very close to where I live. This is my go to spot when I just want to get a quick overnight camp in. I will be returning here soon and will take photos to share.
Depending on the time of year it can be loud as motorists past. However, I have wondered into it wilderness to camp farther away from the trail.
The coordinates from this listing are incorrect and take you down the wrong road.
Laird Park is just down the road and you can get to nice river areas from both campsites. If you can’t get a spot here you can always try down by Laird as a backup.
GuideThis campground is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out area close to the swiftly flowing Marble Creek. There is one vault toilet and two fire rings with grills, but also a couple more spots with just rock rings. We tent camped last year and RV camped this time. Very nice!
RangerGreat peaceful mountain lake setting with elk often on the hillside above located on the historic lolo motorway not suitable for low clearance vehicles but it is a beautiful place to go get away
TravelerThere was a cow moose feeding in the lake when we were there. She would stomp around up to her neck in the lake, then eat the plants that would float to the surface.
RangerBeautiful mountain lake setting high in the mountains.
ScoutGreat spot to camp out. Owls calling throughout the evening. Great cell service.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Orofino, Idaho, where nature's tranquility awaits. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites around Orofino?
Dispersed camping sites around Orofino are typically primitive with minimal amenities. Donkey Creek Campground offers basic facilities including a vault toilet and fire rings with grills near flowing water. Horse Camp Trailhead provides a convenient overnight spot but has no amenities. Most dispersed sites in the area follow pack-it-in, pack-it-out principles, so come prepared with your own water, waste disposal plans, and camping supplies. Cell service is spotty throughout the region, though some locations like Red Bird Creek report good connectivity.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Orofino, Idaho?
Free dispersed camping options near Orofino include Red Bird Creek Trailhead, which offers free parking for up to 48 hours with beautiful views and trail access to the Snake River. Another option is Saint Joe NF Dispersed Camping, which provides free camping opportunities in the national forest. These areas operate on pack-in, pack-out principles, so be prepared to carry out all trash and leave no trace of your stay. Remember to check current forest regulations before your trip, as rules for dispersed camping can change seasonally.
When is the best season for dispersed camping in Orofino, Idaho?
Late spring through early fall (May to September) offers the best conditions for dispersed camping around Orofino, with summer providing warm days and cool nights. Rocky Ridge Lake Campground is particularly beautiful during summer months when wildlife is active – visitors have spotted moose feeding in the lake. Stanley Hot Springs - Backcountry Dispersed Campsite is ideal in late summer when trails are dry and hot springs provide a perfect temperature contrast to cooler evening temperatures. Be aware that high mountain locations may have snow lingering into June, and forest roads can be inaccessible during winter and spring thaw.
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