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Best Dispersed Camping near Ponderay, ID

32 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Ponderay, Idaho focuses primarily on sites along the Pack River and surrounding mountain lakes. These primitive areas include Pack River Dispersed Site, which offers tent camping along the riverside with several pull-off spots for vehicles. Beehive Lake Dispersed provides hike-in tent camping in a more remote setting, requiring a strenuous trek to reach alpine waters. Additional options include Beehives Lakes and Off Grid Back Country North Idaho, all located on public lands where free primitive camping is permitted. Most sites feature minimal development and operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation systems.

Access to dispersed sites ranges from moderate to challenging depending on location. The Pack River area has several dirt roads with washboard sections and rutted paths leading to campsites, requiring careful navigation. One visitor noted, "Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites." Higher elevation sites like Beehive Lake require hiking on trails that aren't always well marked. Clark Fork Drift Yard offers easier access but provides a more parking lot-like experience near the water. Most sites lack amenities such as potable water, trash collection, or toilet facilities, requiring visitors to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste.

These mountain and riverside locations provide solitude and natural beauty characteristic of North Idaho's wilderness. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with campers reporting sightings of various birds and small mammals. The Pack River area is described as "peaceful" with sites spaced well for privacy. Beehive Lake rewards the difficult hike with spectacular alpine scenery and crystal-clear water. A visitor to Beehive Lake commented that "the alpine lake at the end of the trail is stunning—clear, pristine water surrounded by rugged mountain scenery." Seasonal considerations include potential for huckleberry picking in late summer at higher elevations, though campers should be aware that this is bear country and proper food storage is essential.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Ponderay, Idaho (22)

    1. Pack River Dispersed Site

    2 Reviews
    Naples, ID
    15 miles

    "Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites. On the river and very peaceful. Remember to leave not trace and pack out your trash!"

    "There are several dispersed sites up here along Pack River. Good for horses, camping and solitude."

    2. Clark Fork Drift Yard

    4 Reviews
    Clark Fork, ID
    17 miles

    "It’s close to get back on HWY, there is noise but not horrible. Only 2 other campers when we came through but there’s a few open sections to have some space in between. Porta potty is well kept."

    "Quiet after the boats get off the lake. They start showing up early for fishing but we don’t mind that"

    3. Clark Fork River Driftyard

    1 Review
    Clark Fork, ID
    17 miles

    4. Beehives Lakes

    1 Review
    Naples, ID
    24 miles

    "Awesome single site adjacent to the Beehive Lakes trailhead parking lot."

    5. Off Grid Back Country North Idaho

    Be the first to review!
    Naples, ID
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 769-5000

    6. Beehive Lake Dispersed

    1 Review
    Naples, ID
    25 miles

    "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."

    7. Cooks Lake

    3 Reviews
    Usk, WA
    29 miles

    "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."

    8. Bead Lake

    1 Review
    Newport, WA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 684-7000

    9. Cee Cee Ah Creek

    2 Reviews
    Cusick, WA
    34 miles
    Website

    "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."

    10. Sullivan creek campground#2

    6 Reviews
    Metaline Falls, WA
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 226-3564

    "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."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Ponderay, ID

30 Photos of 22 Ponderay Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Ponderay, ID

32 Reviews of 22 Ponderay Campgrounds

  • Jennifer R.
    Jul. 28, 2021

    Cooks Lake

    Great quiet place

    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. The road to get there was approx six miles of gravel winding single lane road. But so worth the drive for the beautiful shaded sites and the open Lakeview sites. Not alot of traffic comes through during the week. Has one vault toilet that was pretty clean but bring your own tp. Also 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...lol

  • Arielle W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2020

    Engle Lake Dispersed Camping

    Great introduction to backpacking, beautiful location

    This was my first ever backpacking experience and was a great introduction for me. We did the 3.5-mile trail. It was challenging and encouraging. My dog loved it too, and she's a larger breed! I would recommend this trek for anyone who is wanting to learn and practice backpacking skills. There are a few cleared areas for dispersed camping at the lake and a few other locations along the 3.5-mile trail and the 11-mile trail to Engle Lake. It is mostly uphill along both trails, though, so be mindful of that when considering equipment and weight. It is a gorgeous spot and is close to the Engle Peak summit with 360-degree views of the Cabinet Mountains. When we were here, there were a lot of Elk and Moose foot-traffic. They probably won't bother you. Just be aware of them and store your food properly. There have been grizzly bears spotted here, but not that frequently, apparently. Nonetheless, bring a bear canister and place it 100-300 feet from your tent. Enjoy the preserved and lightly trafficked gem! And as always, leave no trace and follow COVID-19 and social distancing guidelines :)

  • Marcus K.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 26, 2020

    Sullivan creek campground#2

    Free Camping

    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. All the sites are first come and are Free

    We camped at site #6 over Memorial Day weekend.

    At the site there was a bear box and a fire ring with a moveable grill cover. Some of the sites do have bathrooms. However, we didn’t have one so make sure to bring the appropriate toilet supplies. The size of our site could fit two Rv’s and several tents (Our pop up tent trailer is 25ft). The site has a lot of shade so 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.

    The river is about 35 yards from the site and the dirt road is about 20 yards from the main Camping area.

    Dogs do not have to be on leash. However, this time of the year the river was cold and very fast and if your dog is not trained using a leash or tether system for safety would be beneficial.

    There are several hiking/game trails you can walk or drive too. Sullivan lake is right down the road about a 5 minute drive you can access additional hiking trails.

    Firewood is not provided so make sure to purchase prior and/or bring a ax to cut up the wood that has been left behind.

    Overall we loved this area and will be going back this summer when it’s warmer and the river is safe enough to swim with our dogs:)

    Here is the exact coordinates of the site #6

    https://maps.apple.com/?ll=48.832887,-117.249496&q=My%20Location&_ext=EiQpqFCSB5xqSEAxrBQYwPdPXcA5qFCSB5xqSEBBrBQYwPdPXcA%3D&t=m

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 17, 2025

    North Fork Chewelah Creek

    Very refreshing and beautiful!

    First time taking the godson camping and this was the perfect spot.  The godson's mom told me she went to this area when she was young and then I saw it here on The Dyrt.  At first I entered the coordinates listed on the page and it took me to the opposite entrance to Colville National Forest - there are no places to camp on that side due to the steep drop.  Make sure you follow the written directions - just follow Sand Canyon all the way out and it will take you to the proper entrance to Colville National Forest.  There are a few different pull-offs to camp sites.  The one we stayed at was a bit further down the rock road.  It is a loop off the main road and there are several camp sites along the creek.  There is also a vault toilet - very clean - in this area.  The godson loved it - he even played in the freezing cold water.  I enjoyed the peace and quiet!

  • Douglas S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 2, 2019

    Sullivan creek campground#2

    Great FREE dispersed sites right on the creek!

    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. It is fully a dispersed group of sites so no trash, water, toilet, or any amenities. There is an information sign and several rock rings for fires.  This is my kind of site, just throw your tent up where ever and go fish or hike. 

    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. With Metaline falls a few to the west, there are shops, eteries, and evan a movie theatre close by.

    All in all a great place to stay a couple of nights.

  • N
    Sep. 30, 2020

    Marshall Lake - CLOSED

    Older and Run Down

    Older private campground with power for $40. There is a dump at an additional cost of $10. Some sites are dry camping only. Lake access, but campground is in treed meadow. Sites are not clearly defined. We were here on Wednesday and only ones here other than permanent trailers. Showers are $2 and you get key from camp attendant, Deb. Horse shoe pits and volleyball available.

  • Jeanna A.
    Sep. 22, 2019

    Sullivan creek campground#2

    Creek sings ya to sleep

    Nice location away from people but most all the sites are close to the dirt road and was woken up a couple of times by the sound and headlights of vehicles. But all in all well kept areas (some garbage left by previous campers, just packed it out with mine). Did have a late night bear visitor but was camping in my van so not too concerning. Very little fallen wood for fire, lots of kindling or if you want there is lots of logs in the creek.

  • King K.
    Jul. 20, 2022

    North Fork Chewelah Creek

    Comfortable

    The good -A beautiful camp ground. Small space with multiple dispersed camp sites along the creek and throughout the wooded area. The creek is very small but powerful. You can not swim but still a great place to get wet. If you have a tube bring it and enjoy a short river ride. Not a good place to fish. The main camp area is completely shaded keeping things cool. The camp is very close to the creek. Still there was no issues with bugs. I did not need bug spray. There are established stone fire pits or you can gather up some rocks and make your own. Plenty of deadfall and fire wood all over the place. There is also a fence that runs the perimeter of the camp area. Helping to keep the predators out. The only animal I saw besides squirrels and birds was a skunk. Bears, coyotes, wolves and cougars are know to frequent the area.  

    The bad - Many of the locals are not friendly and claim the whole creek portion of the camp ground for themselves. There are about 6 different camp sites directly on the main creek. The others are spread out through the woods. People often use the creek just to bring their kids down to frolic in the water for a few hours. More than once I have been approached and ran off by hostile creek users. Im sure there are good folks around their too. That said the few people I have met out there are nasty and will refuse to share the campground causing all kinds of drama until you just get mad and leave. Last weekend I was approached by 4 men who were not camping just using the creek to tube with their kids. I was told that I better go find another place to camp. That they were using the creek and I could not be there. I set up anyways camping away from them and was not in anyway a bother to them. Still they continued to come over and harass me about leaving. Until I finally I strapped on my pistol approached them and told them I wasn't going any where. I was met with a lot of cussing and threats. But finally They did leave! So sad a beautiful place I truly loved the area. Not sure if I will continue to go back. It was not worth the ignorance or drama of other human beings. No toilets or electricity, No wifi or fresh drinking water. If you can avoid ignorant humans I would recommend this place to camp.

  • Marcus K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 6, 2020

    Sullivan creek campground#2

    4th of July

    We camped at site #14. Approximately 5 miles on East of East Sullivan Campground heading on Sullivan Creek Rd. (All camping is Free on Sullivan Creek Rd)

    The site is near the river (multiple paths for easy access), has a bear box, and a fire ring. Make sure to bring proper toiletry supplies to use the old fashion style because the closet toilet is 2 miles away.

    The site was great however the fire ring is about 30 yards away from where we parked our tent trailer and would be ideal for tent camping and is very shaded.

    Overall great trip!

Guide to Ponderay

Dispersed camping near Ponderay, Idaho ranges from river valleys at 2,000 feet to alpine settings above 5,500 feet. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with high elevation sites inaccessible until late June due to snowpack. Sites experience temperature swings of up to 40 degrees between day and night, especially in mountain locations.

What to do

Fishing creek waters: Sullivan Creek offers productive fishing spots directly adjacent to several dispersed campsites. At Sullivan Creek Campground, campers can fish just steps from their tents. One visitor noted, "The river is about 35 yards from the site and the dirt road is about 20 yards from the main Camping area."

Huckleberry picking: Late summer visitors to higher elevation sites can harvest wild huckleberries, particularly near Beehive Lake Dispersed. According to one camper, "If you visit during the right season, you'll find huckleberries everywhere, which is a sweet bonus after the tough hike in."

Creek cooling: When temperatures climb above 85°F in July and August, nearby creeks provide natural relief. At Cee Cee Ah Creek, a visitor mentioned, "There is a creek that runs through this area, which is great for cooling off on hot days."

What campers like

Separation between sites: Many dispersed areas provide natural buffers for privacy. At Pack River Dispersed Site, one camper appreciated that it's "Good for horses, camping and solitude." Sites tend to be spaced well apart, allowing for a more private experience.

Wildlife viewing: The remote setting offers opportunities to spot various wildlife. A camper at Cooks Lake described 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."

Star visibility: Minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. The same Cooks Lake visitor emphasized the nighttime experience: "Bats at night, and the stars!!" Remote sites away from towns provide unobstructed views of the night sky.

What you should know

Bear presence: Bears are active throughout the region, requiring proper food storage. At Sullivan Creek, one camper reported, "Did have a late night bear visitor but was camping in my van so not too concerning."

Road conditions: Access roads deteriorate significantly after rain. One Pack River visitor noted, "Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites."

Mouse activity: Some sites experience rodent issues, especially near water. A visitor at Sullivan creek campground#2 warned, "There were also lots of mice. Brave too, they were trying to get our food as we were eating it around the fire!"

Tips for camping with families

Look for swimming options: Several sites offer safe water access for children. At Cooks Lake, a camper reported, "The water was warm and we swam all day."

Choose sites with toilets: While most dispersed sites lack facilities, select locations do have basic restrooms. A Clark Fork Drift Yard visitor mentioned, "There is a pit toilet and a boat ramp here," though another camper noted the "Outhouse could use cleaning."

Scout for level tent sites: Many dispersed areas have limited flat terrain. At Cee Cee Ah Creek, a visitor found, "Plenty of room for a few tents to go up and parking off the road," but this isn't universal across all sites.

Tips from RVers

Length limitations: Most sites accommodate smaller trailers only. At Cooks Lake, an RVer advised, "At least 2 of them are good for my trailer although I wouldn't try if you're not experienced with towing."

Bear boxes instead of storage: Some areas provide bear boxes for food storage where RV storage isn't secure. At Sullivan Creek, a camper noted, "The site has a bear box and a fire ring. Make sure to bring proper toiletry supplies to use the old fashion style because the closet toilet is 2 miles away."

Limited turnaround space: Many forest roads lack adequate turning areas for larger rigs. The Clark Fork Drift Yard provides easier access but has a "Basic gravel parking lot" setup according to one visitor who described it as "a parking lot on a gravel road very close to the highway."

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping sites in Ponderay, Idaho?

Dispersed camping near Ponderay can be found along forest service roads in surrounding national forests. Popular options include North Fork Coeur D'Alene River which offers multiple sites along the river, and Beehive Lake Dispersed in the Selkirk Mountains. Many sites are accessible via gravel roads, with varying degrees of difficulty. Look for established fire rings which typically indicate dispersed sites. The Idaho Panhandle National Forests surrounding Ponderay offer numerous options, but prepare for primitive conditions and pack all necessary supplies.

What are the regulations for dispersed camping around Ponderay?

Dispersed camping in the Ponderay area typically follows standard Forest Service regulations: camping is limited to 14 days within a 30-day period, and sites must be at least 100 feet from water sources. At Sullivan creek campground#2 and similar areas, camping is free but requires proper waste management. Bear safety is critical - many areas like Libby Creek Gold Panning Area have bear boxes for food storage. Always follow fire restrictions, pack out all trash, and practice Leave No Trace principles. Check with the local ranger district before your trip as regulations can change seasonally.

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites near Ponderay?

Dispersed camping sites near Ponderay are typically primitive with minimal amenities. At Cooks Lake, you'll find approximately 6 sites with shaded areas but no facilities. Similarly, North Fork Chewelah Creek offers beautiful creek-side sites but no formal facilities. Some dispersed areas have basic fire rings and occasionally bear boxes, but you should plan to bring everything you need: water, toilet supplies, and waste disposal bags. Cell service is unreliable, and there are no hookups, potable water, or garbage services. Pack in and pack out all supplies and waste.

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