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Best Dispersed Camping near Rexburg, ID

65 Reviews

Dispersed camping opportunities exist across the public lands surrounding Rexburg, Idaho, with several primitive sites located along rivers, forest roads, and public access points. The Wolf Flats Recreation Area, St. Anthony Dunes, and areas along the Snake River provide free camping options managed primarily by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Pine Creek Road, Moose Creek Trailhead, and Fall Creek areas offer additional backcountry camping locations. Most sites feature minimal amenities consistent with true dispersed camping—no developed facilities, potable water, or permanent structures.

Access roads to many dispersed sites require careful navigation, with several areas accessible only via gravel or dirt roads that can become rutted after rain. High clearance vehicles are recommended for reaching more remote locations like Pine Creek Pass and S Antelope Flat Road. A 14-day camping limit applies to most dispersed areas, with campers required to move at least five miles away after this period. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with several areas permitting campfires when no bans are in effect. Most locations lack amenities such as toilets, drinking water, or trash collection, requiring campers to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste.

The dispersed sites near Rexburg provide varied terrain and scenic value, from riverfront locations to mountain views. Wolf Flats Recreation Area features multiple riverside pull-offs suitable for car camping, though reviews note "the road along the sites is very dusty and locals using the boat access fly down the road." Pine Creek Road receives positive feedback for its isolation, with one camper noting it remains "not too busy even on the July 4th weekend." Henry's Fork Rivercamp offers secluded spots within trees for those willing to navigate the access road, with a visitor reporting that "the road was a bit rocky, but our sedan made it through with some careful maneuvering." Cell service varies significantly by location, with some areas maintaining connectivity while others provide a true off-grid experience.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Rexburg, Idaho (36)

    1. Wolf Flats Recreation Area

    14 Reviews
    Ririe, ID
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 524-7500

    "Be weary of fire bans"

    "There are extra pull offs by the river before the main area, perfect for car camping!"

    2. St Anthony Dunes

    1 Review
    Saint Anthony, ID
    13 miles

    3. Big Eddy Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Tetonia, ID
    30 miles

    "Dispersed campgrounds near the river. It seems that is managed during the summer season, but there was no one to check anything in May and plenty of places with fire pits."

    "People came in untill about 10:30 then it was quiet and people started packing up and leaving around 6. Right next to a river as well and the night sky was amazing!"

    4. Pine Creek Rd Dispersed

    5 Reviews
    Victor, ID
    34 miles

    "Great spot near Grand Teton. Not too busy even on the July 4th weekend. Dirt road not too bad but should be comfortable with off-roading a bit."

    "Very peaceful, only one other camper near by for the first 5 days, then had the area to myself. Best view spots need decent clearance."

    5. S Antelope Flat Road

    2 Reviews
    Ashton, ID
    31 miles
    Website

    "However, it’s the perfect spot off highway to camp. 14 day limit."

    6. Pine Creek Pass Dispersed Camping

    4 Reviews
    Victor, ID
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 557-5900

    "Threaded with dirt roads and my little private ptions for a camp. I always head to the top of the hill. Views of the three Tetons, Palisades, and Baldy plus sunsets and sunrises."

    "There is a large turn off. Two ways to the top up Forest Road 40253. The drive up was not too bad. I’m in a all-wheel-drive Ford transit with a slight lift to it."

    7. Fall Creek dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Swan Valley, ID
    34 miles

    "It is dry camping so bring lots of water to keep hydrated."

    "Good access to the streams. We parked in front of a trailhead that allows motor bikes, horses and hikers. Fire rings along the sites and level land. Peaceful night sleep."

    8. Snake River Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Firth, ID
    37 miles

    "Dirt road with easy access goes to a wide open gravel area but opportunities to be right next to the river with an AWD vehicle."

    "Nice BLM area right next to the Snake River and only 10 minutes from Shelley."

    9. Moose Creek Trailhead Dispersed Area

    6 Reviews
    Victor, ID
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 354-2312

    "Close to the Hwy over Teton Pass; but the last mile is clay road & (b/c of recent rain cell) it coated our vehicle."

    "No amenities, just peace and nature."

    10. Henry's Fork Rivercamp

    3 Reviews
    Macks Inn, ID
    39 miles

    "We decided to camp on the way back up from Jackson and found this little gem!"

    "Easy access able, numerous gravel spots in the forest or under open sky. Good fly fishing spot. Surrounded by mountains. We found a spacious and clean camping spot with a rock firepits."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Rexburg, ID

60 Photos of 36 Rexburg Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Rexburg, ID

65 Reviews of 36 Rexburg Campgrounds

  • Nicki S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 17, 2024

    Darby Canyon Dispersed

    Darby

    I have not personally spent the night camping here, but I do work for the Forest Service and wanted to give more information about the Darby Canyon dispersed camping sites. I also had a friend stay here for three nights last September and they had a good time. There are about 10~ sites (I will check and edit when I can) all along the canyon road, some are just right off road and others require a short drive down beaten paths to find the sites. All of these sites (except 2 or so very close to the road) are past the cattle guard. Depending on the time of year, many of these sites may not be accessible. Snow typically stays in the canyon until mid-June and starts collecting in October. The area may also be buggy at the height of the summer (July 2024 had been atrocious). There is limited cell service down most of the road and it completely disappears the closer to the Wind Cave trailhead you get. This area has a 14 day stay limit, meaning that once 14 days (13 nights) have been reached you must move at least 5 miles away to continue camping on forest service land and cannot return to this canyon to camp for 30 days. This is in a bear food storage enforced area and any bear attractants (food, pet food, soaps, sunscreen, etc.) are required to be stored properly in a locked hard sided vehicle or other bear resistant containers. Fires are allowed but must be put out dead (cold to the touch) before leaving a campsite. This canyon is regularly patrolled by Forest Service staff and ranger law enforcement officers, especially on the weekends, to keep up with the food storage and fires out dead orders. Hope this helps weary travelers that are deterred by low-rated reviews.

  • Abner H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 17, 2025

    Lava Hiking Trailhead

    Lots of Quiet Space - Some Amenities

    Stayed at the trailhead parking lot boondocking (No toilets, no water, no electric).  Fairly level area with a fire ring, picnic tables under a shelter, metal charcoal grill and easy access to the lava field (Hells Half Acre) hiking trails.    Access from US 20 to the trailhead parking is gravel and easily accessible for all vehicles with several large turnouts that can be camped at.  The rest of the loop past the turn to the trailhead parking is not graveled but still passable by most vehicles.  I would be more hesitant to use the loop in wet weather where the ground may be soft.

    Unfortunately as you can see in a couple of the pictures not everyone cares for our public lands appropriately, there is some garbage left around and someone has taken it upon themselves to use signs and structures for target practice.

    - AT&T has 2 bars of LTE and very slow data with a 243ms ping time and a 10Mbps download once it eventually started 

    - T-Mobile has 3 bars and my hotspot was able to achieve 18.85Mbps download although it too had a long ping time of 292ms

    - Starlink has an unobstructed view of the sky with a 226.6Mbps download speed and 27ms ping

  • jsbeezg The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 21, 2023

    Lava Hiking Trailhead

    Great location for the night

    Nice location away from the highway to spend the night. Dirt road that is a little rough but accessible by low clearance car. Several pull outs to car camp.

  • kristi M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Darby Canyon Dispersed

    Site 5

    Up the road in Darby Canyon, site 1A sits on the bluff overlooking the Tetons - beautiful! but extremely windy. Very tight space. Moved up to site 5 which required high clearance 4wd and slow driving. Great spot in the middle of the forest.

  • angy M.
    Sep. 8, 2024

    Wood Road Dispersed Site

    Great spot off the beaten path

    Great spot down by river. Mostly sunny area but found this spot with shade. Rough rd coming in but camper van accessible. Rock fire ring. There are houses across river but this site is private from that . Only bad thing is it’s quite a little drive back here. At 2pm on a Sunday no one around so far.

  • Jamie C.
    Jun. 27, 2022

    Darby Canyon Dispersed

    Good Location

    We liked the location because it’s between Driggs and Victor so it’s not too far from markets or gas stations. Pretty good for tent camping, but not many places for the Ambulance to park. Rough roads when we went and that was at the beginning of May so they might have laid down gravel after.

  • Jamie C.
    Jun. 27, 2022

    Pine Creek Pass Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful Views Bumpy Roads

    If you google Pine Creek Pass, that will show you how to get there. There’s a pull off from the hwy that I’ve seen people camp at the base. To get into the dispersed camping you’ll see the driveway in the corner. Take that. It will take you to a long, narrow bumpy road. Beep the horn around corners as some of the road is on a cliff. I’ve seen atv and horses on the road as well. Along the road you’ll find spots to park and camp. I only remember a handful of spots for a camper van.

  • Dexter I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2021

    9U1 Yellowstone National Park Backcountry — Yellowstone National Park

    Relaxing back country camping with a toilet

    Yellowstone National Park back country campsite 9U1 is a nice perfectly flat campsite multi-use camp(pack animals can use this site) near Mountain Ash Creek in SW Yellowstone National Park. Most of the camping area is in site of the trail, some privacy at the food storage/cooking area do to a group of trees. The trail here was the busiest spot on our trip with several backpacking groups and two sets of stock animals traveling down the trail. Site has a food area with a rock fire ring and pole to hang your food back. Plenty of flat ground all around to set up your tent. Mosquitos weren't a problem on our visit but they are present. Water can be filter from the Mountain Ash Creek about a minute away from the campsite. This site has a luxury in the back country....A PIT TOILET! Just follow the sign from the cooking area to the toilet. The pit toilet is a little of a walk from camp, but that is a good thing as it gives you plenty of privacy as the“walls” of this toilet is the forest around you. A campfire is allowed when restrictions are not in place.

  • EThe Dyrt ADMIN User
    May. 29, 2025

    Wolf Flats Recreation Area

    Lots of sites directly on the river

    Lots of great options to camp along the river! Quite busy and did have someone join us in our campsite late at night. Road is not bad! Be weary of fire bans

Guide to Rexburg

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Rexburg, Idaho, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. With numerous options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Wolf Flats Recreation Area

  • This area offers easy access with extra pull-offs by the river, making it ideal for car camping.
  • Many sites are located near the river, providing a refreshing atmosphere and beautiful views.
  • Remember to pack out your trash, as some visitors have noted litter left behind by others.

Top activities while free camping near Rexburg

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the trails around Pine Creek Pass Dispersed Camping, where you can take in stunning views of the Tetons and surrounding landscapes.
  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the access to streams and rivers at Fall Creek dispersed, known for its good trout fishing opportunities.
  • For those seeking a quieter experience, Wood Road Dispersed Site offers a private setting near the river, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature.

Scenic spots for dispersed campers

  • The Big Eddy Dispersed Camping area is known for its proximity to the river, providing a picturesque backdrop for your camping experience.
  • If you're looking for a peaceful retreat, Pine Creek Rd Dispersed offers stunning views of the Tetons and a tranquil atmosphere, especially during weekdays.
  • For a unique experience, check out Lower Rock Creek FR305 Dispersed, where you can camp surrounded by tall trees and enjoy the sounds of the nearby creek.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Rexburg, Idaho?

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Rexburg. Henry's Fork Rivercamp offers secluded spots within trees if you follow the dirt road past the entrance, with a 14-day stay limit. Sedan-accessible with careful driving. S Antelope Flat Road provides convenient highway-adjacent camping despite large potholes on the access road. Other options include Wolf Flats Recreation Area along the river, Snake River Dispersed with good river access for AWD vehicles, and Fall Creek dispersed camping which is described as easy to access. The St. Anthony Dunes area also offers drive-in dispersed camping opportunities within reasonable distance from Rexburg.

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites around Rexburg?

Dispersed camping sites around Rexburg typically offer minimal amenities, as they're primitive by nature. At Lava Hiking Trailhead, you'll find picnic tables under a shelter, fire rings, and metal charcoal grills, though no toilets, water, or electric hookups. The area provides easy access to hiking trails. Wood Road Dispersed Site features rock fire rings and riverside locations with some shade, offering privacy despite houses across the river. Most dispersed sites provide only basic amenities like existing fire rings and flat tent spots. Some sites at Pine Creek Pass and Darby Canyon offer scenic views of mountains. Bring all necessary supplies including water, food, and waste disposal equipment, as these sites operate on pack-in, pack-out principles.

Are there any regulations or permits required for dispersed camping near Rexburg?

Dispersed camping near Rexburg typically follows standard Forest Service regulations. At Darby Canyon Dispersed, approximately 10 sites are available with standard 14-day stay limits. For backcountry camping in Yellowstone National Park, permits are required and must be obtained in advance. Most dispersed sites in national forests around Rexburg observe standard regulations: camp at least 100-200 feet from water sources, pack out all trash, use existing fire rings when available, and respect fire bans (as noted at Wolf Flats). Always check current regulations with the local ranger district as rules may change seasonally, especially regarding fire restrictions.

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