Dispersed camping near Shoup, Idaho provides rustic outdoor experiences along the banks of the Salmon River at an elevation averaging 4,000 feet. This remote region typically experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions. Winter access can be challenging due to snow accumulation on forest service roads and bridges.
What to do
River recreation options: Red Rock Access features a boat ramp that becomes "fairly busy in the morning" according to camper Connie H., who noted the site also includes "a pavilion with a viewfinder to try and scope out some wildlife."
Creek exploration: The water access at Lost Horse Dispersed Campground provides cooling relief during summer heat. Camper Haley S. describes it as having "a nice sized river that cuts through" with "trees, mountains" creating a "gorgeous view."
Hiking opportunities: Several nearby trailheads connect to wilderness areas. Meghan B. mentions camping at a dispersed site while "on our way to hike the Baker, Middle, & Gem Lake Trail" with the bonus of having "a good AT&T signal" at the campsite despite much of the area lacking cell service.
What campers like
Uncrowded camping options: When popular spots fill up, alternatives remain available. After finding Bobcat Gulch "completely full" with "so many trucks, trailers, camper vans," Connie H. continued to Red Rock Access where they "were the only ones there" initially before a few others arrived by morning.
Riverside settings: Many campsites feature direct river frontage. At Deer Gulch, Ted T. enjoyed "a great view of the mountains" while Eric G. appreciated being "right along the Salmon river" in a "nice and convenient place to stop."
Open spaces: Several areas provide ample room between sites. Sharon W. noted Deer Gulch has "beautiful grass in most of the spots" and "lots of room for our dogs to run by site without bothering others."
What you should know
Bridge constraints: Several camping areas require crossing narrow bridges that may limit access. Kenny R. warned about Salmon Creek Camp where "the first bridge is closed, and the second bridge is pretty narrow" causing him to avoid crossing with his 16-foot camper.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality. Kevin C. described the route to Chaffin Creek as "smooth though it has scattered potholes and is through a country residential area" before entering forest land.
Site cleanliness concerns: Some areas suffer from improper waste disposal. At Lost Horse, Kelsey W. encountered "more trash here than we've ever seen camping before" including "full trash bags left behind" and "human poop and used toilet paper in multiple spots, even though there IS a toilet provided here."
Tips for camping with families
Less crowded timing: Weekday arrivals significantly improve site availability. Multiple reviews indicate weekend overcrowding, with Connie H. noting they "tried to stop here for an overnight, but it was completely full" at Bobcat Gulch.
High-elevation alternatives: Sabe Vista Point offers cooler temperatures during summer heat. Bill describes it as "one of only a few big open flat spaces on the Magruder corridor" with "beautiful vistas" but cautions there's "no cell service."
Traffic noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some camping areas. At Deer Gulch, Ted T. mentioned "93 is close so there is some mild highway noise but nothing unbearable," making sites farther from roadways preferable for light sleepers.
Tips from RVers
Bridge weight limitations: Approach narrow bridges with caution. Kenny R. observed at Deer Gulch "a 30'ish foot big fifth wheel here, so I guess it can handle the weight. Just watch your sides if you are pulling a camper."
Directional options: At Chaffin Creek dispersed sites, Kevin C. advises "Just passed the second (actual) cattle guard which is where the private property seems to end, you'll find a cluster of sites that are well isolated."
Site selection strategy: Look beyond the immediate camping area. At Deer Gulch, Kenny R. suggests "you can turn right or left once across the bridge. Fewer people to the left" with "plenty of room for RVs and tents" and "plenty of unshaded in case you have Starlink."
