Primitive tent camping near Spencer, Idaho provides access to remote wilderness areas with notable elevation changes from 5,600 to over 8,000 feet. The region's volcanic landscape creates unique camping terrain characterized by lava formations and sagebrush plains. Summer temperatures can reach 85°F during day and drop to 45°F overnight, requiring campers to prepare for significant temperature variations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Targhee Creek offers excellent fishing access with sites positioned along a mile-long road leading to the water. A camper noted, "There are two very nice spots at the end of the road right along the creek. Across the bridge from the road closed sign there is also an excellent tent spot right along the creek."
Wildlife viewing: While tent camping Spencer, Idaho visitors should bring bear spray as wildlife encounters are common. At Targhee Creek, one reviewer reported, "We did see come bears and elk from our site which was fun!" Another camper mentioned regularly spotting "a resident moose" at Warm Slough.
River floating: The Henry's Fork section near Warm Slough provides seasonal water recreation. According to reviews, it's "Great to go float river or fishing. Camping only allowed Oct 1 to Jan 31. 10 days max." Another camper called it "Great place to fish, kayak, or float the river."
What campers like
Quiet seclusion: Many dispersed tent sites offer privacy from neighboring campers. A reviewer at Bootjack Dispersed Camping said, "We love our spot. Rained a few days but we did not care. Will be back. Possible to buy property! Love it here."
Convenient Yellowstone access: Several camping areas serve as affordable bases for park exploration. A Targhee Creek camper shared, "The spot is 12 miles from West Yellowstone entrance. Excellent Verizon service was a bonus that we don't get at a lot of dispersed sites."
Morning views: Sunrise vistas across the landscape create memorable camping experiences. A visitor to West Dubois Pulloff on Route 22 described the area as having "Good option for the night the bit windy and not much protection" but appreciated the open terrain.
What you should know
Seasonal camping restrictions: Some locations have limited availability windows. For Warm Slough, a reviewer clarified, "Great to go float river or fishing. Camping only allowed Oct 1 to Jan 31. 10 days max."
Road conditions: Many tent camping areas require navigating rough access roads. At Targhee Creek one camper warned, "The road is very rough with many potholes though. If the weather is good it would be a great place to be! We went while it was raining... would not recommend."
Insect concerns: Bugs can be problematic during certain seasons in the Spencer camping areas. A Targhee Creek visitor reported, "The flies were unbearable despite using spray of all kinds. Night time was enjoyable when they went away but it was hard to enjoy while being attacked in the eyes and face."
Facility limitations: Most dispersed camping near Spencer offers minimal amenities. At Warm Slough, a camper observed, "As many free sites are it hasn't been maintained or respected by those who use it. There's trash all over and broken glass in the pit toilet."
Tips for camping with families
Scout before setting up: Family-friendly tent sites require advance planning. For Bootjack Dispersed Camping, a visitor advised, "Use Google satellite and then scout them out as the roads can get pretty rutted the further in you go."
Weather preparedness: Temperature fluctuations impact tent camping comfort for children. One Targhee Creek reviewer warned, "If the weather is good it would be a great place to be! We went while it was raining... would not recommend. It was incredibly muddy and had lots of standing water."
Water access locations: When tent camping with children near Spencer, look for sites with safe water features. At Pole Bridge Campground, a camper described, "Next to the Creek, large spots, picnic tables and bear boxes. Bring insect repellant."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for bigger rigs: Most dispersed camping near Spencer requires careful navigation for larger vehicles. At Bootjack Dispersed Camping, a reviewer noted, "Very close to West Yellowstone, about 25 minutes away. Close to Hwy 20. Lots of camping sites that are in the trees or out in the open. Dirt road has ruts, but many large rigs were camped here."
Weather monitoring: RVers should check forecasts before selecting sites in low-lying areas. A camper at Bootjack advised, "CAUTION: if you park down by the creek, watch the weather. It can get a bit mushy in spots, and the road in/out can rut out."
Supply preparedness: Limited services near Spencer tent camping areas require advance planning. One RVer at Bootjack Dispersed Camping recommended, "Groceries & Supplies are at tourist prices, come stocked if you don't want to pay them."
