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Best Dispersed Camping near Soda Springs, ID

77 Reviews

Several free dispersed camping areas surround Soda Springs, Idaho, with Indian Rocks being the most accessible option. Located just off I-15 near McCammon, this former state park offers approximately ten primitive sites on BLM land with mountain views. The access road has significant washboard sections and potholes, though most vehicles can navigate it carefully. A recent visitor noted, "The road is washboard with lots of potholes, slow going for us with a 24' travel trailer, but totally doable."

Palisades Reservoir provides additional dispersed camping on the Idaho/Wyoming border, offering sites along the water with no amenities beyond existing fire rings. Farther south, Diamond Creek area offers more remote options, though cattle frequently wander through camps. Most dispersed sites in the region lack facilities, with highway noise common at Indian Rocks and train disturbance affecting Pebble Creek Road sites. Pack out all trash and prepare for primitive conditions with no drinking water, toilets or designated sites at most locations.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Soda Springs, Idaho (24)

    1. Palisades Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Soda Springs, ID
    15 miles

    "Easy to get to launch quickly and close proximity to Alpine WY where you can pick up supplies. There are no amenities at the campground."

    2. Diamond Creek Guard Station

    3 Reviews
    Auburn, WY
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 847-0375

    $35 / night

    "With a wood-burning stove, we stayed nice and toasty. There were plenty of cots to move close to the wood-burning stove for a cozy night sleep."

    "Dispersed camping with space for very large groups. Lots of dirt bike/quad trails. Beautiful views. Wish we could have stayed longer."

    3. Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping

    17 Reviews
    McCammon, ID
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 478-6340

    "GPS correct, no signage and just off highway West. Small 60x40 yard gravel/dirt lot a quarter mile up improved road with some potholes."

    "Just a quick turn off from the main Highway on a flat and smooth dirt road. The site is one huge Loop so stop and park wherever you want. There's one tree that I parked under for shade."

    4. Portneuf Lower Sportsmen's Access

    1 Review
    Lava Hot Springs, ID
    21 miles

    "Easy access from Lava with about 10 designated spots, most with room for two vehicles and one(?) pull through spot that fit my truck/30foot TT."

    5. Pebble Creek Road Pull-Off

    1 Review
    Bancroft, ID
    22 miles

    6. Reservoir Disperse Camping near Melvin Brewing

    16 Reviews
    Alpine, WY
    45 miles

    "Our first time boondocking in a camper van and we may be spoiled for life! Had a spot right on the water, with an brewery 100 yards away."

    "Lots of space available for dispersed camping . Beautiful views and great location in town but still away from all road noise. ATT and Verizon service good ."

    7. pebble road dispersed camping

    1 Review
    McCammon, ID
    25 miles

    8. Blackrock Canyon Recreation Site

    8 Reviews
    Inkom, ID
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 478-6340

    "A short dirt road that’s well maintained leads up to a rock/gravel parking lot. As another reviewer said, the right is for camping, while the left is day use only."

    "Nice spot in a gravel parking lot surrounded by small mountains with toilets nearby. Park on the right as camping is prohibited on the left."

    9. Salt River Pass

    6 Reviews
    Smoot, WY
    36 miles
    Website

    "They also blocked the road that goes pass the site with their truck so we weren’t able to drive any further to see if there was anywhere else in the area, but upon looking at satellite view of the coordinates"

    "As I was driving over Salt River Pass I noticed a small dirt road on the side of the highway."

    10. Heart Mountain Spring

    2 Reviews
    Downey, ID
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 478-6340
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Soda Springs, ID

59 Photos of 24 Soda Springs Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Soda Springs, ID

77 Reviews of 24 Soda Springs Campgrounds

  • T
    Jul. 6, 2022

    Salt River Pass

    Pretty

    It’s a pretty spot, but we were unfortunately unable to stay here because a couple was already there and they asked us to leave because they wanted the spot to themselves - which we understood.

    They also blocked the road that goes pass the site with their truck so we weren’t able to drive any further to see if there was anywhere else in the area, but upon looking at satellite view of the coordinates, the road seems to go on a bit further so if you have the chance to drive through there may be more potential sites.

    The road is a bit rough and you definitely need a high clearance vehicle to drive through.

    Tons of wildflowers and trees everywhere. A very private spot right off the highway.

    We ended up staying at Allred Flat campground just a mile or so up there road. It’s $10 a night - $5 if you have a pass - and in my opinion was even prettier than this site.

  • S
    Jul. 27, 2021

    Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping

    Decent BLM Boondock

    GPS correct, no signage and just off highway West. Small 60x40 yard gravel/dirt lot a quarter mile up improved road with some potholes. Was traveling late from Idaho to SLC and was a good stopping point. Can hear the highway still but quiet enough and secluded. No amenities whatsoever but there are some weathered petroglyphs to see. As an option there is a formal rest area off the highway a few miles south.

  • Matt P.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Heart Mountain Spring

    Dirt pull out

    Not sure where precious reviewer went but the GPS coordinates are for a dirt pull out beside a narrow spring. A mile further uphill on dirt road is a small camping area. Free for 21 days. No facilities but a few fire pits. It was full with trailers that have been there a while by the look of it. No spring. I drove another few miles up the mountain and found the entrance to the massive ranch that owns most of the surrounding land. Beyond that was yet more dirt road with no sign of a antelope park or spring. I gave up and was thankful I didn't arrive late in the day.

  • Fred S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 24, 2024

    Grey's River 10138L Dispersed

    Wonderful Riverside Dispersed Campsite

    Coordinates: 42.78898,-110.68746. Free. Camped here Sept 17, 2024. One of several dispersed campsites along Greys River Road (Forest Road 10138). Large dispersed site, set back from forest road; no concerns with dust coming into the site from passing vehicles. Should comfortably accommodate 3 or 4 rigs. Clean rock fire ring. Mostly level, dirt surface. Easy access from forest road. Open site surrounded by trees. Next to Grey's River; easy access for bank fishing. There is a set of trees that may accommodate hammock camping. Tent camping also possible. Area can get muddy after rain. Solar recharging possible in middle of afternoon. No T-Mobile nor AT&T cell service. Loved this spot.

  • J
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Salt River Pass

    Do not go here

    The suggestion that you need a high clearance vehicle is an understatement. The service road is incredibly rocky with one side a sheer drop. Went down with our campervan and barely made it down and back up in one piece. Looks like a nice spot but the other entrance was blocked so you’d have to get out via the same horrendous route in. Avoid.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 20, 2023

    Reservoir Disperse Camping near Melvin Brewing

    Unbelievable boondocking and brews!

    Our first time boondocking in a camper van and we may be spoiled for life! Had a spot right on the water, with an brewery 100 yards away. The people were great, the brews were tasty and the sunset was stunning. 10/10

  • Al L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Snake River Alpine Dispersed Camping

    Overnight at this site

    Absolutely no signage on where to pull off the road. But, we found it. A little rutted coming off the highway. Area is very flat and easy to navigate. Did not venture farther in because just needed a place to park.
    No services.

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping

    Close to road, easy short-stay

    Just a quick turn off from the main Highway on a flat and smooth dirt road. The site is one huge Loop so stop and park wherever you want. There's one tree that I parked under for shade. No services just a big flat field. But nice Vistas around.

  • Erin H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 5, 2022

    Blackrock Canyon Recreation Site

    New Changes to this area??

    Blackrock Canyon BLM Pocatello, ID 8/4/22 DO NOT trust APP coordinates 42.8145, -112.3307 : Campendium 6/20/22 42.8146,-112.3307 : The Dyrt 6/30/22, 42.8142, -112.3306 : FREE Roam / 2019 These coordinates all lead to a reasonably level, fenced dirt parking lot on the left with a vault toilet and concrete walkway going across the road to a covered picnic/stream area. We were very excited. This is NOT the BLM camping area.... or rather more likely, 'no longer' is? There are 3 new looking signs stating Day Use Only, No Overnight Camping. However there is still a signboard by the toilet with the typical BLM rules/regs & 14 day limit? What's a gal to do? So I called the BLM office listed on the sign to clear up the conflicting sign info. Yep, the aforementioned parking lot is NOT FOR OVERNIGHTCAMPING - again, signs are shiney, no weathering, so this may be a new development? We were told there are 2 BLM camping areas. #1 is ACROSS from the aforementioned parking lot... big DEEPLY graveled area on the right as you come in that steeply slopes down to the picnic table area (our autolevel just laughed at us no matter what we did or where we positioned). #2 is about 1/4m further up where the road loops back on itself, and also has a vault toilet (no concrete walkway). This is a medium parking area inside the loop. Looked doable until we noticed the berm hiding under the grass. At 34' backed in, we'd have either lost the under carriage spare tire, or had our big butt sitting on the ground. So this too was a big nope for us. There is a pullout on the way to the 2nd area, but currently has a 'road closed' sign on it, and another pull out just before the 1st parking area. We could have squeezed into this one, but by this point we were wore out & the thought of all the dust ... just nope. We moved on. This is a GORGEOUS area, if you're a smaller footprint, and can get level. Verizon & ATT both usable but not very strong. Road in is a little washboard and hilly, but doable. I15 underpass ... we're 13'8" on truck & cleared both with no issues. Definitely recommend dropping your rig in the parking lot and scouting out this area 1st.

Guide to Soda Springs

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Soda Springs, Idaho, where nature meets tranquility. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Soda Springs, Idaho

Dispersed campers should check out Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping

  • This location is known for its accessibility and offers a mix of tent and RV accommodations, making it a versatile choice for various camping styles.
  • Visitors have noted that the road leading to Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping can be a bit rough, so it's advisable to drive slowly and be cautious of potholes.
  • The area is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

Enjoy outdoor activities while free camping near Soda Springs

  • The Salt River Pass is perfect for those looking to hike and explore the stunning wildflower fields and scenic views.
  • For fishing enthusiasts, the Fish Fry on Salt River offers a great spot to cast a line and enjoy the peaceful river setting.
  • If you're into dirt biking or ATV riding, the trails near Blackrock Canyon Recreation Site provide ample opportunities for adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping near Soda Springs, Idaho?

Several dispersed camping options exist near Soda Springs. Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping is located just off the highway with a small gravel/dirt lot about a quarter mile up an improved road with some potholes. It's a convenient stopping point when traveling between Idaho and Salt Lake City. Another option is Palisades Reservoir, which offers lakeside dispersed camping with numerous spots to set up. The area is especially popular for those bringing boats for water activities. Many dispersed sites can be accessed with standard vehicles, though some areas may require higher clearance, especially after rain or during spring thaw.

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Soda Springs?

Dispersed camping in the Soda Springs area typically follows standard Forest Service and BLM regulations. At sites like Blackrock Canyon Recreation Site, camping is limited to 14-21 days within a 30-day period. Most areas require campers to practice Leave No Trace principles, including proper waste disposal and fire management. Campfires may be restricted seasonally, especially during high fire danger periods. At Heart Mountain Spring, the free 21-day limit is enforced, though some sites may have evidence of longer stays. Always camp in established sites, stay at least 200 feet from water sources, and pack out all trash. Check with local ranger stations for current restrictions before your trip.

Is there free boondocking available year-round in Soda Springs, Idaho?

Free boondocking is available near Soda Springs, though seasonal accessibility varies. Reservoir Disperse Camping near Melvin Brewing offers free waterfront camping spots with stunning views, though it's not technically in Soda Springs. For areas closer to Soda Springs, like Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping, 2WD-accessible roads extend for miles with spread-out camping spots along river meadows. However, most higher elevation sites become inaccessible during winter months due to snow. Lower elevation sites may remain accessible year-round, weather permitting. Always check road conditions before heading out in winter or early spring, as many forest roads are not maintained during these seasons.

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