Dispersed camping near Stanley, Idaho offers free overnight options on national forest land at elevations between 6,200-8,000 feet. The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with summer daytime highs averaging 75°F and nighttime lows often dropping below 40°F. Forest roads become impassable during winter months with seasonal closures typically starting in mid-October.
What to do
Hiking access to alpine lakes: Several dispersed camping areas serve as gateways to backcountry lakes. At Petit Lake Dispersed Camping, one camper noted it's "Within 5 minutes from the lake and the trailhead for the Alice-Toxaway Loop... I came on a Sunday night, several people leaving, several spots available."
Fishing opportunities: The Salmon River provides accessible fishing directly from campsites. At Decker Flats Dispersed, a camper enjoyed "amazing Trout fishing within 10 feet of my tent" and mentioned being "within 2 mins of a hiking trail that leads you to Hell's Roaring lake."
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. A camper at Nip and Tuck Rd - Dispersed Camping reported "Clear views all around with unparalleled astronomy night viewing" and mentioned getting "two bars Verizon" signal strength.
What campers like
Convenience to recreation: Many sites offer quick access to popular destinations. One camper at Stanley Lake FS 638 Road Dispersed appreciated that it's "only a few miles from Stanley Lake boat ramp" despite noting there's "not a lot of privacy in my opinion."
River proximity: Waterfront camping spots provide natural amenities. A visitor to Decker Flats described it as having "primitive campsites along the Salmon River. There was road noise from the nearby highway but otherwise it was quiet. The river is great for rinsing off as well."
Weather variability: Summer months offer comfortable camping conditions. At Petit Lake Dispersed Camping, a visitor reported staying "here for a week. The road is in great shape. A couple of big rocks here and there. Plenty of places to do a 3-point turnaround with any rig."
What you should know
Access road conditions: Many forest service roads require high-clearance vehicles. At Iron Creek Camp on Forest Road 619, a camper found "some rough free dispersed spots that had cell signal from Stanley" but cautioned "the road was so rough washboard potholed I did not check."
Site selection timing: Popular areas fill quickly on weekends. One visitor to Nip and Tuck Rd noted: "Got to Stanley area around 6pm on a Friday. Drove to Stanley Lake and Iron Creek but everything was full. Decided to drive down Rd 653 then to Rd 633 to see if there was anything open and found a good spot about 2 miles in."
Designated site restrictions: Regulations have increased in recent years. A 2023 visitor to Iron Creek observed "info boards and signage that notes dispersed camping only in designated spots marked on the ground with new signs. I saw an A group and a B group and may be more farther up."
Tips for camping with families
Toilet access considerations: Few dispersed sites provide facilities. At Redfish Lake Overflow Dispersed, "The vault toilet was very clean" and "each site has a fire ring. Some sites are large enough for bigger rigs."
Wildlife awareness: Children should be supervised due to wildlife activity. A camper at Nip and Tuck Rd reported seeing "some antelope, ground squirrels, and cows. Pretty wildflowers all around too."
Backup planning: Have alternative sites ready during peak season. One camper noted: "When I got to redfish lake, it was already to late in the season (September) to camp here. I was still able to check out the campground and it had amazing spots right on the lake."
Tips from RVers
Turn-around limitations: Some roads have limited space for larger vehicles. At Redfish Lake Overflow Dispersed, a visitor noted: "To the far right there is no trailer turn around but a site large enough for a 5th wheel if you back all the way in. Center area has back in and a couple pull thrus."
Dump station options: Plan for waste management needs. The same camper mentioned "Potable water and dump at both Redfish Lake and Stanley Ranger station. Both areas are $12 and both a short drive. Dumpsters at both locations."
Generator etiquette: Some areas have noise concerns. One RVer gave Redfish Lake Overflow 4 stars because of "road noise and generators (including open frame) running nonstop over the weekend. Weather was beautiful (70s) during day and low 30s to high 20s at night."
