Tent campsites near Rupert, Idaho offer primitive camping experiences at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 7,500 feet in various terrain types. Most dispersed camping areas remain open from May through October, with accessibility varying significantly based on weather conditions. Sites typically see temperature drops of 15-25 degrees at night compared to daytime highs.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: At Independence Lakes Campground, campers can access trails leading to three mountain lakes. "It's a 2.5 mile hike to the first lake. It inclines all the way up. You are treated with beautiful back country views, met with several switch backs before reaching the first lake," notes Vanessa H.
Rock climbing routes: Many primitive sites provide direct access to climbing routes. Bread Loaves Group Campsite offers immediate access to approximately 20 routes within 100 feet of site 58. Alan B. shares that "the walls nearby face east and provide an excellent opportunity for some night or moonlight climbing."
Creek fishing: Several campgrounds feature creek access for fishing. At Third Fork Campground, campers can fish directly from their sites. Jeff F. notes the campground offers "Free 14 day camping along the creek at the Third Fork Trailhead. Multiple designated campsites along the creek."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: The remote nature of these campsites creates opportunities for solitude. At Twin Sisters Group Campsite, James C. describes "Dark, quiet and starry at night with long views to the south. Lots to explore in locale. California Trail passed nearby."
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation camping areas provide relief from summer valley heat. Amanda M. reports from Bear Gulch: "We came up here looking to escape the heat of the city and were not disappointed. It was a good 10 degrees cooler and cooled off quickly when the sun went down."
Night sky viewing: The remote location of many sites creates optimal stargazing conditions. Kurt G. describes McClendon Spring Campground: "Quiet spot and pretty easy to get to. We have the place to ourselves. Small spring and a stagnant pond, but the bugs are not bad."
What you should know
Road conditions: Most primitive camping areas require driving on rough roads. Al L. shares about McClendon Spring Campground: "About 3 1/2 miles on a semi maintained gravel road. Lots of cows. Nice quiet spot with some picnic benches."
Limited facilities: Amenities vary significantly between sites. Maureen F. warns: "This is a typical BLM site. Be prepared with everything you might need. There is a vault toilet and people have thrown trash down it, so don't be those people."
Navigation challenges: Finding some campsites can be difficult without proper directions. Becbecandbunny O. advises: "Google maps led us down an unpassable road. Instead take Tiffler Road/1250 S from the 81 for a smoother ride (still dirt but passable in a 2WD vehicle)."
Tips for camping with families
Creek access for cooling: Some campsites offer creek access for kids to cool off during hot days. Colette A. recalls camping at Independence Lakes: "Loved hearing the creek as we tucked in for the night. The hike the next morning to the lake was a great challenge!"
Short hike accessibility: Several sites offer family-friendly hiking opportunities. Vanessa H. notes that Independence Lakes trails are "dog friendly and baby carrying friendly. Fishing is also available as they refill the lakes every year."
Shade considerations: When camping with children, seek sites with natural shade. Angela S. shares about Bread Loaves: "It has great shade for City of Rocks. It was such a great location for climbing and mountain biking. A trail started right at the parking lot, which is where the bathroom is too."
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: Most primitive camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. Cody E. from Independence Lakes Campground cautions: "We were able to get up to the parking lot but I wouldn't recommend it. If my trailer was not lifted we would have had issues."
Limited turning space: Some areas have restricted space for maneuvering larger rigs. Lauren C. warns: "The turn off the highway is VERY tight, watch out of the cattle guard if you have low clearance."
Designated parking areas: At several sites, RVs must park in designated areas away from tent sites. Alan B. explains about Third Fork Campground: "It also seems like you could just park your RV in the giant dirt area to the east of the creek. This area will be hot in the morning and shady in the afternoon as there are no shade trees to the east of the campsites."
