Primitive camping near Sandpoint, Idaho offers numerous spots across the Kaniksu National Forest with access to both alpine lakes and river systems. The area ranges from the lower elevations of Lake Pend Oreille at 2,062 feet to higher alpine regions reaching over 6,000 feet. Seasonal road conditions impact access significantly, with many forest roads becoming challenging after rainfall or early in the season when snowmelt creates muddy terrain.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Sullivan Creek offers productive trout fishing with relatively easy access. According to one visitor, "There are several hiking/game trails you can walk or drive to. Sullivan lake is right down the road about a 5 minute drive where you can access additional hiking trails."
Boating options: Clark Fork River Driftyard serves primarily as a boat launch rather than a dedicated campground. One camper noted, "Not much to look at, but free. No amenities." The site provides access to Lake Pend Oreille where the Clark Fork River enters the lake.
Huckleberry picking: Seasonal berries provide a natural harvest opportunity, particularly at higher elevations. A camper at Beehive Lake Dispersed mentioned, "If you visit during the right season, you'll find huckleberries everywhere, which is a sweet bonus after the tough hike in."
What campers like
River soundscapes: Campers consistently mention the calming sounds of moving water. At Sullivan creek campground#2, one reviewer appreciated how "the creek sings ya to sleep," though noted "was woken up a couple of times by the sound and headlights of vehicles" passing on the dirt road.
Fishing access: Many sites provide direct water access, particularly valued by anglers. One camper at Cee Cee Ah Creek remarked, "There is a creek that runs through this area, which is great for cooling off on hot days. Plenty of room for a few tents to go up and parking off the road."
Seclusion without complete isolation: Sites typically provide privacy while remaining accessible. A reviewer at Pack River Dispersed Site described it as a "Beautiful remote area" and noted "There are several dispersed sites up here along Pack River. Good for horses, camping and solitude."
What you should know
Road conditions vary drastically: Many dispersed sites require navigating challenging forest roads. A Pack River camper warned about "Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites."
Wildlife precautions: Bears are active throughout the region. One Sullivan Creek camper reported "a late night bear visitor but was camping in my van so not too concerning." Multiple sites feature bear boxes for proper food storage.
Variable site amenities: Facilities range from nothing to basic vault toilets. At Cooks Lake, a camper warned, "There is a vault toilet that was disgusting, beware," while also noting the sites were "well-separated and each with a fire pit."
Seasonal flooding: Low-lying areas near water may flood during spring runoff. One Cooks Lake visitor cautioned about getting stuck: "Was headed from Montana and got up there right at dark. Decided to drive down to the water (that was hardly there) and found myself barely on the edge of lake bottom mud. Didn't get out till the next morning."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection matters: Look for sites with natural boundaries for child safety. At Sullivan Creek, one visitor shared, "We camped at site #6 over Memorial Day weekend... The site has a lot of shade so depending on the time of year make sure to bring the weather appropriate clothing."
Pet considerations: Most sites allow dogs, but water safety requires attention. The same Sullivan Creek camper advised, "Dogs do not have to be on leash. However, this time of the year the river was cold and very fast and if your dog is not trained using a leash or tether system for safety would be beneficial."
Wildlife education: Prepare children for wildlife encounters with clear rules. A Beehives Lakes visitor noted the area is "a true alpine treasure" but warned the hike to reach it is "pretty strenuous, with some tough climbs along the way."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller trailers only. A Cooks Lake camper mentioned, "At least 2 of them are good for my trailer although I wouldn't try if you're not experienced with towing."
Limited level areas: Many primitive sites lack proper parking pads. Sullivan Creek has some larger sites, with one camper noting, "The size of our site could fit two RVs and several tents (Our pop up tent trailer is 25ft)."
Navigational challenges: Forest roads often narrow significantly. A visitor suggested, "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."
