Primitive camping near Porthill, Idaho offers solitude in a region dominated by the Selkirk Mountains and Kaniksu National Forest. Most dispersed sites sit at elevations between 2,500-4,500 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night. Road access deteriorates significantly after rainfall, with several forest service roads becoming impassable without high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Fishing spots: Sullivan Creek provides excellent trout fishing opportunities throughout the camping corridor. According to one camper, "The river is across the road and has a nice path to the water," making access straightforward at Sullivan Creek Campground.
Swimming options: Campbell Park features a designated swimming area separate from the river current. A visitor notes, "There is a fishing/swimming pond for the kids, free firewood, one of the sites has a cute small waterfall, IN THE SITE!!!" at Campbell Park at Box Canyon Dam.
Hiking trails: Multiple unmarked but accessible game trails extend from Pack River campsites. A camper mentions the area is "Good for horses, camping and solitude" at Pack River Dispersed Site, making it suitable for day hikes without extensive preparation.
What campers like
Riverside proximity: Most Sullivan Creek sites position campers within hearing distance of flowing water. One reviewer shared, "Sullivan Creek is right there! Sullivan Lake is just a few miles to the east," highlighting the convenient water access at numerous sites.
Shade coverage: Dense tree canopy at most sites provides natural cooling during summer months. A camper at Beehives Lakes describes their experience as "Awesome single site adjacent to the Beehive Lakes trailhead parking lot," with ample shade throughout the day.
Free accommodations: No fee requirements exist for most dispersed camping in the region. One camper points out, "A very lovely free campground provided courtesy of the hydroelectric company. Around 10 sites with free firewood, washrooms, drinking water and a small lagoon for swimming. Did I mention it's free??"
What you should know
Wildlife concerns: Bears actively visit campsites, particularly at Sullivan Creek. A camper reports, "We had no cell phone service for several miles before reaching the site. There were also lots of mice. Brave too, they were trying to get our food as we were eating it around the fire!"
Road conditions: Many access routes deteriorate significantly after rain. A review for Pack River notes, "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!"
Weather variability: Temperature fluctuations exceed 30 degrees between day and night even in summer. Sullivan Creek campers warn, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Safety equipment: Bring child-sized life jackets for water activities. A visitor to Campbell Park notes, "The campground also provides life jackets, if your child needs one!" but availability isn't guaranteed at other sites.
Site selection: Choose sites 6-10 at Sullivan Creek for better river access. A family camper explains, "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."
Entertainment options: Pack games suitable for wooded environments. One reviewer at Beehive Lake Dispersed mentions, "If you visit during the right season, you'll find huckleberries everywhere, which is a sweet bonus after the tough hike in," providing natural activities for children.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller trailers under 25 feet. A camper reports, "The size of our site could fit two RVs and several tents (Our pop up tent trailer is 25ft)," but larger rigs will find few suitable options.
Limited amenities: No hookups exist at any primitive sites. For those needing facilities, a camper suggests, "If you need to stop on a long journey and don't want to find a spot to dispersed camp, you can find vault toilets here as well as a small swimming lagoon," referring to more developed options.
Leveling challenges: Bring extra leveling blocks for uneven terrain. A Sullivan Creek camper notes, "There were not a ton of level surfaces for tents or tables, no bathroom near this site although there's one at the first site," indicating preparation is essential for comfortable setup.
