Rustic camping near Saint Anthony, Idaho centers on public lands surrounding Henry's Lake and the Snake and Teton Rivers. The area sits at approximately 5,000 feet elevation with higher dispersed sites reaching nearly 6,500 feet, creating variable camping conditions throughout the spring and summer months. Many campsites remain inaccessible until mid-June due to seasonal snowmelt and muddy conditions, particularly at higher elevations.
What to do
Wildlife viewing by the water: At Henry's Lake BLM Dispersed, the lake attracts various bird species and occasional larger mammals. "Really great place to camp out. Feels like you're in the backcountry. Awesome views too," notes Josh G. The shoreline provides ample viewing opportunities, especially during morning hours.
River fishing access: Riverside camping at Big Eddy Dispersed Camping offers direct access to fishing spots along the Teton River. "This is a loop that is next to the Teton River. If crowded there would maybe be 20 campers, but there are not any designated spots," explains Kent H., highlighting the uncrowded fishing experience available during weekdays.
ATV trail exploration: Several forest roads and designated ATV trails connect through the camping areas, particularly around Henry's Lake. "Several trails for ATVs & hiking. Rather warm, but not bad for July," reports Voyager D., describing the extensive trail system accessible directly from camp.
What campers like
Proximity to Yellowstone: Many campers use Henry's Fork Rivercamp as a base for Yellowstone trips. "Friends and I left Yellowstone at dark and just needed a place to sleep a decent distance from the park so we knew we'd have a place to sleep," explains Sophie B., highlighting its strategic location for park visitors.
Secluded riverside spots: Campers appreciate the privacy of certain riverside locations. "Great spot down by river. Mostly sunny area but found this spot with shade. Rough rd coming in but camper van accessible," mentions angy M. about the primitive camping at Wood Road, noting the balance of sun and shade options.
Dark skies for stargazing: The remote dispersed locations provide excellent night sky viewing opportunities. "Right next to a river as well and the night sky was amazing!" reports Ashley A. at Big Eddy, describing the celestial views unmarred by light pollution common in this region.
What you should know
Mosquito season intensity: Bug populations vary dramatically by season and location. "About 8 large spots with bear boxes and picnic tables and fire pits. No toilets or trash. In June, bring mosquito repellant, the worst I've experienced since AK," warns mark F. about Warm River on Forest Road 150.
Road conditions vary: Many access roads require careful driving and appropriate vehicles. "The road was a bit rocky, but our sedan made it through with some careful maneuvering," reports Sophie P. about Henry's Fork Rivercamp, offering perspective on accessibility with standard vehicles.
Dust issues: During dry summer months, dust becomes a significant factor. "The road along the sites is very very dusty and locals using the boat access fly down the road in trucks as fast as they can and will leave your stuff covered in dust," explains johny R. about Wolf Flats Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Vault toilet availability: Few dispersed sites offer toilet facilities. "We stayed near the cliff where we watched marmots and foxes along the rocks. A few vault toilets," notes Jamie C. about Wolf Flats Recreation Area, one of the limited options with bathroom facilities.
Bear safety precautions: Some areas provide bear boxes for food storage. "About 8 large spots with bear boxes and picnic tables and fire pits," mentions mark F. at Warm River on Forest Road 150, highlighting an important safety feature for family camping.
Litter concerns: Pack-out discipline varies widely between sites. "Only complaint is the garbage left behind. We easily filled a garbage bag full of others trash when we first arrived," reports Azaali J. at Wolf Flats Recreation Area, suggesting families bring extra bags for cleanup.
Tips from RVers
Designated vs. unofficial sites: RVers should understand site limitations. "Not all of the sites are designated. So this means if you are in one of the things that looks like a site but isn't marked, that anyone can roll up and setup right next to you," explains johny R. at S Antelope Flat Road.
Level parking considerations: Finding level spots can be challenging. "Pulled in just before dark after drive through Yellowstone and Grand Teton. Beautiful level spot right by the boat launch. Didn't even have to unhook," shares David W. about Henry's Lake BLM, noting the convenience of certain waterfront locations for larger rigs.
Maximum RV length: Many primitive camping sites near Saint Anthony can accommodate substantial RVs. "The road in is Gravel and 2 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 45 feet," details Clayton S. at Henry's Lake BLM, providing specific capacity information.
