Dispersed camping near Payette National Forest offers secluded sites throughout its 2.3 million acres of rugged terrain, with elevations ranging from 1,500 to over 9,000 feet. The forest contains numerous high alpine lakes accessible via the network of Forest Service roads that typically open from late May through October, depending on snowmelt conditions. Winter camping is possible in lower elevations, though most dispersed areas become inaccessible due to snow.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Many campers at East Fork Cxts-Dispersed Site Camping Area enjoy angling in the East Fork of the South Fork of the Salmon River. "Sites are right on the water overlooking the East Fork of the South Fork of the Salmon River," notes camper Hannah C. The area offers trout fishing within walking distance of camp.
Historical exploration: The B-23 Dragon Bomber wreckage at Loon Lake provides a unique historical site to visit. According to Hannah C., "The plane can be difficult to find as you have to bushwack to get to it. I did find a little trail that brought me out, but it is often hard to find." The site includes informational signs explaining the 1943 crash and rescue story.
Paddleboarding: Brundage Reservoir offers calm waters ideal for paddleboarding. One visitor reports, "So quiet, love paddle boarding and being the only one on the lake. Only one other camper on the weekend in a 7 site dispersed camping area."
What campers like
Lake seclusion: Campers at Brundage Resivour Dispersed Camping appreciate the lack of crowds. "Each spot in its own area. One big area for group. Haul ALL your own stuff in & OUT. water is great," writes Imerie T., noting the peaceful environment during summer weekends.
River sounds: The white noise from flowing water enhances the camping experience at Rapid Creek. Kevin C. describes, "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."
Mountain lake fishing: At Goose Lake Camping Area, visitors enjoy freshly caught trout cooked over campfires. Christopher R. mentions, "awesome undeveloped camp sites spaced out along the lake great place to camp and enjoy some mountain lake trout over a fire along with the cool crisp air at night."
What you should know
Toilet facilities: Vault toilets are available at select dispersed areas, though most require pack-in, pack-out preparation. At Rapid Creek Dispersed Camping Area, Kevin C. observed, "The campground is well maintained and the vault toilet was reasonably clean when I arrived."
Temperature fluctuations: High-elevation dispersed camping areas experience significant day-to-night temperature drops, even in summer. "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," reports a camper at Rapid Creek.
Yellow Pine access: East Fork Cxts offers proximity to the small town of Yellow Pine. Courtney R. notes, "9 great sites along the river, fire rings, CTX toilets and down the road from Yellowpine where you can get a beer and use WiFi."
Tips for camping with families
Lake Louie trail consideration: The hike to Lake Louie Dispersed Camping requires advance planning with children. Spencer L. advises, "Challenging hike in with packs but very doable. Once you reach the lake it is stunning. We did this hike in July in the evening time. There was plenty of shade and a cool breeze that made it enjoyable."
Road noise awareness: When selecting sites at dispersed areas near Little Payette Lake, consider proximity to roads if camping with light-sleeping children. One camper mentions, "Next to road so you do have that noise. It is a traveled road so about every 10 mins a car drives by."
Pet-friendly options: Warren Wagon Road dispersed sites accommodate families with pets. According to Imerie T., "We ended up taking 3spot because we had a group with us. Only Mosquitoes at dusk and dawn. Lake is just down the road, but you have quick, short walking access to river & creek."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites near the Payette have narrow access roads unsuitable for larger RVs. Hannah C. cautions about East Fork Cxts, "The road is narrow, so I would not suggest a big camper or rv in this area. The sites only consist of a fire ring a d a small parking area, but they are free."
Leveling challenges: Prepare leveling equipment for uneven terrain at dispersed sites. A Little Payette Lake camper notes, "Sloped ground so make sure you can level all your things."
Starlink connectivity: Remote workers can find suitable connectivity in the area with appropriate equipment. At Upper Payette Lake, Ronda D. reports, "We set up Starlink so we could work on Friday and had no issues with the connection."
