Top Free Dispersed Camping near Potlatch, ID

Looking for the best Potlatch dispersed camping? Here you'll find a diverse selection of places to camp, including remote dispersed camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the trees or wide open spaces, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect dispersed campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Potlatch, ID (15)

Showing results 1-10 of 15 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Potlatch

26 Reviews of 15 Potlatch Campgrounds


  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Run Access Dispersed
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Bull Run Access Dispersed

    great spot except the hunters

    We were glad we read the reviews for directions & info about spots — like others mentioned, the best spot is a big grassy area amongst the trees (continue past the first circular parking area). However, the entire area has sportsman access, so we listened to gun shots most of the day… not exactly the peaceful nature vibe we were hoping for. Would likely come back, but pray it’s a day of no hunters

  • Steve G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Run Access Dispersed
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Bull Run Access Dispersed

    Calm Breeze and Amazing Sunset!

    Stopped at the little restaurant and got a fantastic meal after being on the road all day then headed past all the massive houses to end up in such a gorgeous location. This is one of my favorite spots now!

  • Kaitlin K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Run Access Dispersed
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Bull Run Access Dispersed

    Buggy but Beautiful

    We were able to get our fifth wheel (40ft long, 13 1/2 ft tall) in and out easy! Lots of spaces and places to turn around. After crossing the bike path, take the first right onto the dirt road at the sportsmans access sign (parallel to the small paved parking lot.) Like another said, the best spot is past the first circular area. Keep going down the road and you’ll see a big shady area in the trees. (You can go further along to two more sites more suited for smaller pop-up campers, tents, or vans.) Close to the water so of course, there were some bugs: lots of bees and mosquitoes.

  • Overland S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area

    Astro Photographer’s Dream

    The drive was mostly dirt roads. I managed just fine in a Subaru for context. The hike itself was incredible and a bit primitive at points. Bring bug spray and maybe a machete lol. I was getting close to where one of the waterfalls was and ran into a Coyote who would not budge. That pretty much ended the hike as I could hear others howling nearby.

    The hike back was even amazing with the Sunset and landscape making me feel like I was on another planet. The best part was pure luck as I setup camp on the road back during a new moon which was perfect for star gazing and astro photography. I’m an amateur and took my time to learn my camera a bit. This little adventure was my favorite thus far this year.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Run Access Dispersed
    Jul. 7, 2024

    Bull Run Access Dispersed

    Beautiful area with mosques

    Just stopped for one night but I enjoyed the rest. Pretty spot close to the lake, but the mosquitoes are abundant! I had my door opened for just a few minutes and had to kill like 20 before I could sleep.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Run Access Dispersed
    May. 17, 2024

    Bull Run Access Dispersed

    Very good camping

    Went with the family in mid May on a perfect weekend weather-wise. If you drive past the first couple grass campsites and continue on the narrow road with water on both sides, just off to the right is a single secluded campsite amongst the tree. The best site there imo. privacy, lots of trees so the site gets a good amount of shade but sun still pokes through, perfect. 

    Mosquitos weren't so bad that it affected us but we all had a few bites. My only knock on this site, which isn't much, is that you can see homes from the sites. What can I say I like to feel like I am far from everyone. 

    Good site to camp for a family.

  • Gisele S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Lake
    May. 11, 2024

    Rose Lake

    Weird place

    We didn't feel secure at this location, it was very removed from the main road, it was not looked after (grass was very high), and it seemed liked someone was living there permanently. Generally weird vibes.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Lake
    Aug. 18, 2023

    Rose Lake

    Not many spaces

    I followed the road past the sportsman’s access sign as suggested by someone else. Turned left at the first corner, found one campsite and continued. The road turns into private land and I had to turn around. Camped at the first site. Wasn’t bad. Very open. Right near the water. Good gravel road. Only saw 2 other people while there. One stayed at the corner. Stayed one night. A deer walked right through camp.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Run Access Dispersed
    Jul. 24, 2023

    Bull Run Access Dispersed

    Great Campsite!

    Very quiet, isolated camp spot. This is the best spot to set up: Cross the one-lane bridge > make a right till you hit the parking lot > make another right towards the sign that says "sportsman access (or something like that)" > stay straight until you are prompted to make a left. Instead of making that left, stay right there. Spacious enough for you to set up a tent and park your car.

  • PJ M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Run Access Dispersed
    Jul. 8, 2023

    Bull Run Access Dispersed

    Nice 3 Day Option

    Hwy 3 > Cross the 1 lane bridge called "South Bull Run Rd" > continue to the right past a few houses until you reach Coeur d'alene Trail access parking area > cross over trail and continue down parallel West Bull Run rd

    4 spots that I found.  One is a large loop with fire pits already setup (where I stayed).  There's one back-in that used to be a 2 track trail next to a small pond, another pull-through loop next to the main sign, and one more site down the road towards the forest.

    You're really close to highway 3 so there's road noise from that.  More common actually was the sound of boats going down the Coeur d'Alene river which is even closer.  There's another camping area across the river (which is apparently contaminated with toxic materials from mining lol).  I was here during 4th of July so people were lighting off fire crackers there as you'd expect.

    Overall it's a very beautiful spot, with multiple small lakes, deer grazing around, and plenty of wildflowers.

    Had no issue with my 25ft trailer as the road was in good shape.  Larger rigs would probably be okay too, but I'd scout it out.

    This is Idaho Fish and Wildlife property and has a 3-day maximum stay.

  • April C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Lake
    Oct. 13, 2022

    Rose Lake

    It's a place to sleep

    I struggled with this place, it would be really great if the two lot areas were level. There isn't a level spot anywhere. That is my only complaint, except for the people who parked right in front of the only restroom for the entire night. That was weird trying to get around their overspilled car to use the restroom. 

    Plenty of room for people to camp. There was one car when we arrived, and more pulled up throughout the night. You can walk down to the lake and sit on the dock to watch the sunset.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Lake
    Sep. 24, 2022

    Rose Lake

    Rose Lake

    It’s a small area, but there is a big space for large vans and campers and as you go down to the lake there are two campsites next to the bathroom that are perfect for tent camping. (if you can get the spot)

  • Russell P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Lake
    Jul. 9, 2022

    Rose Lake

    Great spot on the lake

    Great, easy location. The last road is unpaved for a short bit with minor potholes.

    A handful of spots near the lake in three different nooks. A bit uneven but a couple blocks worked for us.

    A bit busy with the boat dock and lots of bugs at night. Still worth it!

  • Brooke T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Lake
    Jul. 3, 2022

    Rose Lake

    Beautiful, Simple

    For a free stop on the way to a primary destination, this was the most pleasant surprise. Strolled in at 11 pm and although it was dark & other campers, it was easy to find a spot. The morning revealed a beautiful lake/dock, clean pit toilet and pet friendly space. It was very simple, but perfect quick stop for us.

  • Brian L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area
    Mar. 4, 2022

    Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area

    Beautiful spot in the scablands

    Rock creek runs through this lovely BLM land with 2 sets of falls. It's a great spot in late winter or early spring if you're looking for solitude. We visited in February and saw 4 or 5 people, but no one stayed the night except us. Towell falls is beautiful, but we have yet to visit Breeden falls. The ranch has an interesting history and it's fun to poke around the old structures.

  • Daniel
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Lake
    Aug. 21, 2021

    Rose Lake

    Bad Timing?

    Packed up and left due to a belligerent and homeless vagrant. Small, beautiful lake. Uneven, rocky dispersed camping areas.

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Lake
    Dec. 14, 2020

    Rose Lake

    A decent stop

    Pulled into the campground late at night. It was snowy so we were the only ones. We were able to pull off beside of the bathroom. There were 2 picnic tables/fire rings off to the side. Nice lake when waking up. Would explore other options next time but is nice if you’re in a pinch.

  • Megan K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Horse Camp Trailhead
    Oct. 4, 2020

    Horse Camp Trailhead

    Fun Quick Trip Spot

    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. 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.

  • Kathleen D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Lake
    Aug. 15, 2020

    Rose Lake

    Convenient Stop

    We pulled in after sundown — so grateful to find a safe spot close to the Hwy (en route to our next national park). There was no entry signage beyond the boat launch. The Dyrt map and other reviewer’s directions were accurate. There seemed to be two large lots (one grass, one gravel) that were camping permissible. We were in the second gravel lot. There appeared to be 5 total groups of campers spread over two spacious lots with plenty room for more. There are fewer options for tent campers. One is a little clearing and fire ring under the trees at the rear of the gravel lot (see pic). The gravel lot proved to be a very uncomfortable slant for our rooftop tent.

    Toilet. Pretty little lake (but nothing you’d want to swim in. Pretty murky and gas polluted water by the boat launch). 3 night limit. Not a place you target for a vacation, but a lovely free spot along the way.

  • Heather R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area
    Jun. 24, 2020

    Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area

    Stars, coyotes, and accessibility!

    This is a lovely secluded spot for amazing star-gazing on a clear night. At night it is in complete darkness, away from traffic noise, and you can hear the coyotes as they move nearer (I know, a little creepy, but making a little noise is all you need to do). It is very flat and would be reasonably accessible for someone using a wheelchair or with other mobility restrictions. The picnic tables are even accessible! There are fire rings, a pit toilet, and stables and water for your horses. No portable water for humans, so bring your own. There's no shade other than under a nice picnic table shelter, so it was best for us to come late in the day and then make breakfast under that shelter.

  • Brian L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonnie Lake Island
    Apr. 1, 2020

    Bonnie Lake Island

    Bonnie Lake Island. Boat in island campsite in scab-land canyon lake

    This is a primitive site on an island in Bonnie Lake in Eastern Washington. Bonnie lake is a canyon lake, about 4 miles long and narrow. The island and surrounding sq. mile of land is owned by the BLM. Access is by paddling up Rock Creek about a mile and another 1/2 mile paddle up the lake. The creek can be seasonally shallow and you'll have to portage across at least one beaver dam. The island is rocky and brushy with enough flat spaces for a tent or two and trees for hammocks. The steep canyon walls provide a stage for coyotes to sing back and forth. Please use sanitary bags to pack out your waste (poop). The island's soil isn't deep enough for proper burial.

    There is a spit of land on shore where you can camp too, but I've not done that.

  • UnnamedAdventures
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Lake
    Aug. 5, 2019

    Rose Lake

    Nice spot for a quick stop

    Rose Lake campsite is a nice spot minutes right off of the highway. The original posting has the public access area for the camping but the camping area is near the boat launch(take your first left when going to the public access). Near the public access there is a outhouse. When you get to the correct area there is a mowed area to park your travel trailer, setup a tent or park your RV. This area is very buggy so be prepared, we stopped in late July. There is no cell phone service too! Check out our blog at www.unnadventures.com or follow our journey on facebook or instagram at Unnamed Adventures.

  • Gary M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area
    Jul. 31, 2019

    Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area

    Primitive but magnificent

    The campground itself is on BLM land and is primitive.  There is a pit toilet, picnic tables, fire rings, corrals and horse water.  The camping itself is on the primitive side, but the scenery it magnificent!  The last two miles driving in is a rough dirt road, and a vehicle with ground clearance is highly desirable. A three mile hike/horseback ride takes you through Washington's Channeled Scablands to Towell Falls through spectacular buttes and meadows along the creek.  The best time to visit is in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom and before the RATTLESNAKES get populous.  The night skies are particularly dark because you're a long way from any civilization.  It's also interesting exploring the old ranch building that remain on the site. The area is popular with horsemen and trail groups up to a bit of "roughing it." It also can be a great day trip from the Spokane Washington area.

  • G
    Camper-submitted photo from Donkey Creek Campground
    Jul. 6, 2019

    Donkey Creek Campground

    Awesome spot beside the rapids

    This 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!

  • Jess G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Lake
    Jul. 4, 2019

    Rose Lake

    Boat access

    Nice little loop camp ground, 3 sites that were pretty spacious all include a fire ring and picnic table. Free camping for up to 3 days. Right on the lake! Nice dock to go out to fish on as well. 1 vault toilet. Nice big parking lot for boats and trailers! Right off of i90.



Guide to Potlatch

Camping near Potlatch, Idaho, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the scenic trails around Hawleys Landing Campground — Heyburn State Park. One reviewer mentioned, "There is a really nice cycle that you can do," making it a great spot for biking enthusiasts.
  • Fishing and Swimming: At Spring Valley Reservoir, you can enjoy fishing and swimming. A visitor noted, "Great docks on the water, swimming, fishing," highlighting the fun water activities available.
  • Wildlife Watching: Many campers enjoy spotting wildlife. One reviewer at Moose Creek Reservoir Access said, "There are lots of socks stationed around the water," indicating a good chance to see various birds and other wildlife.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. A review for Little Boulder Campground stated, "The restrooms here are some of the cleanest of the campgrounds in the area."
  • Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. One camper at Emerald Creek Campground mentioned, "All the tent spots were well spaced apart," making it a peaceful place to unwind.
  • Friendly Hosts: Campground hosts can make a big difference. A visitor at McKay's Bend Recreation Site praised the host, saying, "He won a national award for his campground hosting!"

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A reviewer at Hells Canyon Resort mentioned, "Lots of traffic noise," which might not be ideal for those seeking tranquility.
  • Crowded Sites: Certain campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. One camper at Spring Valley Reservoir noted, "This can be a nice place depending on how busily you catch it."
  • Limited Amenities: Some sites may lack certain amenities. A visitor at Kamiak Butte County Park pointed out, "No reservable sites," which could be a drawback for some.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One reviewer at Boyer Park & Marina KOA said, "Great for families (large and small)," making it a solid choice for family outings.
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or kayaks for extra fun. A camper at Hawleys Landing Campground mentioned, "There are some nice walks to the lake," which can be great for family bonding.
  • Pack Snacks and Games: Keep kids entertained with snacks and games. One visitor at Emerald Creek Campground noted, "It was only half occupied," suggesting plenty of space for family activities.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Premier RV Resort at Granite Lake mentioned, "Full hookups with lots of pull through spaces if needed," which is helpful for RV travelers.
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Wind can be an issue at some sites. A camper at Boyer Park & Marina KOA advised, "Make sure everything is secured down," to avoid any mishaps.
  • Look for Amenities: Choose campgrounds with the amenities you need. One visitor at Hells Canyon Resort appreciated the "clean, friendly people," which can enhance your stay.

Camping near Potlatch, Idaho, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Potlatch, ID?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Potlatch, ID is Horse Camp Trailhead with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Potlatch, ID?

    TheDyrt.com has all 15 dispersed camping locations near Potlatch, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.