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janelle H.
Scout
ScoutRose Lake
Rose Lake Boat Launch
Free camping for up to three days. They have an open field above boat launch and a small parking lot.vault toilets. No garbage can. Please observe leave no trace practices.
Dispersed Camping near Rathdrum, ID
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Several free dispersed camping sites exist within 30 minutes of Rathdrum, Idaho. Rose Lake offers basic sites with lake access, vault toilets, and established fire rings. A recent visitor noted that while the site has "beautiful lake/dock access and a clean pit toilet," the camping area features "uneven, rocky dispersed camping areas" with limited flat space for tents. Bull Run Access Dispersed provides more spacious options with both grassy and wooded sites accommodating large rigs. As one camper explained, "We were able to get our fifth wheel (40ft long, 13 1/2 ft tall) in and out easy," though the proximity to water means "lots of bees and mosquitoes."
North Fork Coeur D'Alene River and copper mountain rd dispersed camping provide additional remote sites in the region. These primitive dispersed campsites typically follow the standard 14-day camping limit enforced on public lands. Most locations permit fires except during seasonal restrictions, and pets are generally allowed. No water, electric hookups, or dump stations are available at these primitive sites. Cell service is limited or non-existent in many locations. The best sites typically fill quickly during summer weekends and hunting seasons.
Best Dispersed Campgrounds near Rathdrum (18)
1. Rose Lake
"Free camping for up to three days. They have an open field above boat launch and a small parking lot.vault toilets. No garbage can. Please observe leave no trace practices."
"Great elevated views of Rose Lake through the trees at the boat ramp. Several fishermen loading up after a day on the lake. A little noisy, but not distracting."
2. copper mountain rd dispersed
"Close to the highway so a little bit of noise from the interstate. Fire ring and that’s it."
"Very uneven but I found a spot close to even"
3. Bull Run Access Dispersed
"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.)"
"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."
4. Lakes Divide Road
5. Bull Run Dispersed Camping
"Easy access to most of it in a car/van. Crushed gravel road with a few watery potholes."
6. North Fork Coeur D'Alene River
"Fantastic access to the river for great fly fishing. Several spots in the trees and several in the more open areas. Vault toilet is to the right as you pull in about 1/8 mile away from pull off."
"I met some cool Idaho locals that said they’ve been coming here since they were kids!"
7. Clark Fork Drift Yard
"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."
"There is a train near by, but we really didn’t notice the noise."
8. Clark Fork River Driftyard
"There are no facilities, but there is a porta-potty available (and it wasn’t terrible). This is a pack it in, pack it out area, so no trash cans or dumpsters available!"
"After checking all the campsites in the area and finding them full, we had no choice but to check out the one dispersed campground in the area, which was Clark Fork River Driftyard."
9. Cooks Lake
"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."
10. Hanks Meadow
"Have to ford Creek to access. Just one party there on memorial weekend. All the campsites on the way up here were very crowded."
Drive Time
- 13 min from Coeur d'Alene, ID
- 34 min from Spokane, WA
- 2 hrs 9 min from Lewiston, ID
- 3 hrs 7 min from Walla Walla, WA
Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Rathdrum, ID
38 Photos of 18 Rathdrum Campgrounds
Jess G.
Rose Lake
Snake P.
Bull Run Access Dispersed
Sveta K.
Marshall Lake - CLOSED
Kevin K.
North Fork Coeur D'Alene River
Jennifer R.
Cooks Lake
Connie H.
Clark Fork River Driftyard
Emilee B.
Clark Fork Drift Yard
Joe B.
Cee Cee Ah Creek
Dee 🥰.
priest lake dispersed camping
Brian L.
Bonnie Lake Island
King K.
North Fork Chewelah Creek
Dispersed Camping Reviews near Rathdrum, ID
55 Reviews of 18 Rathdrum Campgrounds
Jennifer R.
GuideCooks 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
Connie H.
RangerClark Fork River Driftyard
Great place for an overnight or a couple days!
We found this spot to be great for an overnight stop. It was a little out of our way… but you can’t beat a free spot with a great view! Camping limit is 3 days. There are no facilities, but there is a porta-potty available (and it wasn’t terrible). This is a pack it in, pack it out area, so no trash cans or dumpsters available! There are small fire rings scattered throughout the area. It was a pretty quiet spot, other than the trains going by, but that didn’t bother us at all. There was one other camper set up when we arrived around 7:00 PM, and a couple others showed up after us. The boat ramp had a lot of visitors in the early morning and you could hear gunshots in the distance from others hunting, which also didn’t bother us at all. Overall, we thought this was a pretty great find!
- NNaomi C.
TravelerNorth 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!
Kaitlin K.GuideBull 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.
- RRae F.Guide
North Fork Chewelah Creek
Large rig approved - Private creek access
I had a great time here with my huskies and my cat. I updated the location here on The Dyrt app. The exact address is 3399 Sand Canyon Rd, Chewelah, WA. There are at least 10 dispersed fire rings. Many of the sites have direct access to the creek. There are multiple trails that go up and down both sides of the creek and many logs that have fallen over it so you can walk across to the other side. The entire creek is fully shaded by trees and doesn’t get much sun. It only gets to about knee-deep in some parts - it’s July right now. People use this area for snow activities in the winter. There are many large areas with hard packed dirt that are relatively level and good for big rigs. There is one pit toilet bathroom that I can see and a few picnic tables. This is an active logging road right now so trucks go by every hour or so. There is definitely wildlife out here. Be cautious for bears and other large predators. I have seen wild turkeys, squirrels, tons of different birds, butterflies, and something large ran behind our campsite last night. There is plenty of shade and also plenty of open areas for setting up solar panels with all day sun. There is no cell service up here, but Starlink works great. The creek is beautiful and clear and cold. So refreshing and if you really needed to drink it, you probably could. I have not seen any hiking trails per se, however, you could walk up and down the logging roads and explore the forest line pretty easily in many parts. If you go up the logging road to the right, there is an old mine that you can access. There seems to be little pathways spread out randomly through the forest as you continue down the road. This is the perfect spot for boondocking, unless you’re worried about cell service. I’ve been able to leave my dogs off leash and they are so happy to run free through the creek and around the fields and through the forest. This place really does have so much to offer. We’re here by ourselves right now, so we have the luxury of privacy and perfect quietness to enjoy the sound of the creek and the bugs and the birds.
- KKim A.Guide
Bull Run Dispersed Camping
Bull Run
Lovely spot. The sound of waterfowl are so peaceful. Excellant fishing spot if you have the appropriate license. Easy access to most of it in a car/van. Crushed gravel road with a few watery potholes. Right off the Cour de lain trail which is asphat paved so great spot for bike rides, walks, skateboard is your pebble aware 😂🛹. 3 days camping only allowed. Within site of some homes so wear clothes 😂 From the trail head take the little road with a sign that says "sportsmans access". i did not drive over to the wooded side as theres one spot thats a little iffy for my low vlearance van. More shade and privacy over there. This is a great spot for solar panels.
Nancy R.GuideMarshall 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.
- SSnake P.Traveler
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.
Guide to Rathdrum
Dispersed camping near Rathdrum, Idaho offers rustic sites in the forested foothills of the Coeur d'Alene Mountains, where elevation ranges from 2,200-4,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F during the day, cooling to 45-55°F at night. Most primitive camping areas follow Forest Service regulations with varying road conditions requiring high-clearance vehicles for access to more remote locations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The North Fork Coeur d'Alene River provides excellent fly fishing access at multiple spots along its banks. One camper noted that "the fish were jumping like CRAZY the night I stayed!" while another mentioned "fantastic access to the river for great fly fishing" at North Fork Coeur D'Alene River.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer prime wildlife spotting hours throughout the forest areas. At Cooks Lake, visitors report 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."
Water recreation: Many rustic sites provide access to lakes and rivers for swimming or paddling during summer months. At Bull Run Access, campers appreciate how "close to the water" sites are located, though this proximity means "lots of bees and mosquitoes" are common during warmer months.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many campers value finding private areas away from crowds. At North Fork Chewelah Creek, visitors noted it's "very refreshing and beautiful" with "a few different pull-offs to camp sites" and "several camp sites along the creek" making it easier to find isolation.
Lake views: Clark Fork Drift Yard offers scenic vistas over Lake Pend Oreille. One camper appreciated "looking at the mountains" and noted that while there is "noise but not horrible," the boat launch with dock provides easy water access.
Established fire rings: Most rustic camping areas near Rathdrum have stone fire rings. At North Fork Chewelah Creek, campers find "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."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many primitive sites requires driving on rough forest roads. Approaching Hanks Meadow, one camper noted you "have to ford Creek to access" the site, so high-clearance vehicles are recommended for many locations.
Bug preparedness: Mosquitoes and other insects are common, particularly near water. At Bull Run Access Dispersed, a visitor warned about being "close to the water so of course, there were some bugs: lots of bees and mosquitoes."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack amenities. Clark Fork Drift Yard has a "porta potty is well kept" but no other facilities, while Cooks Lake has a vault toilet that some campers warn "was disgusting, beware."
Seasonal considerations: Spring camping can be challenging due to flooding and mud. At Cooks Lake, a camper cautioned about "lake bottom mud" that trapped their vehicle overnight.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: Lakes and shallow creek areas provide natural water play areas for children. At North Fork Chewelah Creek, one parent reported their child "loved it - he even played in the freezing cold water."
Safety precautions: Wildlife encounters require proper preparation. One camper at Hanks Meadow noted that while it's a "beautiful, quiet river meadow" with "approximately room for four camper setups," all visitors should follow bear safety protocols.
Spacious sites: Look for camping areas with room for children to explore safely. Bull Run Access Dispersed has "lots of spaces and places to turn around" and a "big shady area in the trees" perfect for family camping setups.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. Bull Run Access Dispersed is an exception, where campers report "we were able to get our fifth wheel (40ft long, 13 1/2 ft tall) in and out easy!"
Road scouting: Check road conditions before bringing trailers to remote sites. At Cooks Lake, an experienced RVer advised "I wouldn't try if you're not experienced with towing" since "the road to get there was approx six miles of gravel winding single lane road."
Leveling challenges: Many primitive camping areas near Rathdrum have uneven terrain. Campers recommend bringing extra leveling blocks, as most sites feature natural, ungraded surfaces that can make parking larger vehicles challenging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any free boondocking sites available near Rathdrum?
Are there any free boondocking sites available near Rathdrum?
Yes, there are several free boondocking sites near Rathdrum. Bull Run Access Dispersed offers multiple free spots accessible to larger rigs, with campers reporting successful stays in 40-foot fifth wheels. The area features grassy campsites and more secluded spots among trees, with some sites positioned along the water. Another option is Rose Lake, which provides free camping for up to 3 days with spacious sites that include fire rings and picnic tables. Located right on the lake with a dock for fishing, it also has a vault toilet and ample parking for boats and trailers, making it convenient for those traveling along I-90.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Rathdrum?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Rathdrum?
Free dispersed camping near Rathdrum can be found at several locations within driving distance. Cooks Lake offers approximately six dispersed sites, with at least two suitable for trailers (though experience with towing is recommended). The campground is reached via a six-mile winding gravel road, but the journey rewards you with beautiful shaded sites. Another option is North Fork Chewelah Creek, which features multiple dispersed sites along a small but powerful creek in a wooded area. While the creek isn't suitable for swimming, it's a great place to cool off, and the campground is particularly beautiful for those seeking a natural setting.
What are the rules and regulations for primitive camping in Rathdrum?
What are the rules and regulations for primitive camping in Rathdrum?
For primitive camping around Rathdrum, most dispersed sites follow standard public land regulations. At Bonnie Lake Island, a primitive site on BLM land, standard leave-no-trace principles apply with access only by paddling. Typical regulations for the area include camping limits (usually 3-14 days depending on the site), proper waste disposal, and maintaining reasonable distance from water sources (typically 100-200 feet). Most sites require packing out all trash, burying human waste 6-8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water, and using existing fire rings when having campfires. Check for seasonal fire restrictions before your trip, as they vary throughout the year. Contact the local ranger district for specific regulations as they may change.
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