Dispersed camping near Sweet, Idaho provides rustic accommodation throughout the Boise National Forest and surrounding reservoirs. Located approximately 45 minutes northeast of Boise at an elevation of 3,000-4,500 feet, this region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F. Water levels at reservoir camping areas fluctuate significantly throughout the season, with many sites becoming difficult to access by late summer.
What to do
Water recreation: Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed offers numerous water activities during summer months. "Be careful as the drive is a little sketchy. The water is clean and there is tons of beach area! Bring the kayaks and get paddling!" according to Brett P.
Hiking opportunities: Multiple trails exist near camping areas, with some sites providing direct trail access. At Beautiful Boise National Forest, campers can explore riverside trails. "I love this area so very much. It's next to the river, with little beaches. We are near 4 natural hot springs!" reports Imerie T.
Fishing access: Most reservoir sites provide shore fishing opportunities. At Willow Creek Campground, one visitor noted, "Great fishing location. Even has a sunken truck that's been there for more years than most locals said they've known."
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities. The Tripod Reservoir area provides open vistas. One camper observed, "We spend lots of summers here. So many open spaces. Lots of cattle roaming. Creeks, lake, and hiking."
What campers like
Uncrowded camping: Tripod Dispersed camping receives fewer visitors than other areas, providing a quieter experience. "We spend lots of summers here. So many open spaces," reports Imerie T.
Beach camping: Several reservoir sites permit camping directly on beaches when water levels allow. "There are many group sites and single sites. Many sites own a corner turn... I love being able to jump into the lake and ride my bike along the lake," writes Conner about Arrowrock Reservoir.
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "Honestly one of the best places close to the city. Far enough away that you still get out of service, a good view of the stars, a swim, and some magnificent overall views," mentions Simran D. about Arrowrock Reservoir.
Riverside settings: Mores Creek by Steamboat Gulch offers creek-side camping with shallow water access. "A variety of free and dispersed sites, most of them with rock campfire rings, near a nice shallow creek. A fair amount of RV and ATV traffic but still feels pretty secluded," notes lee.
What you should know
Road conditions: Most dispersed camping areas require travel on unpaved roads with varying conditions. For camping at Mann Creek Recreation Area, Christine advises: "Follow the directions, not the GPS coordinates. There is two roads to get in more creek and man creek. More creek will make you wish you had a sports bra on and a new suspension for your car when your finally get to pavement."
Seasonal challenges: Summer heat affects comfort at most sites. "So hot and no shade. If it were not close to the water you may not have a way to beat the heat," warns Laurie W. about Arrowrock Reservoir.
Limited facilities: Dispersed camping areas provide minimal amenities. Bring all supplies, including water. "No site boundaries, easily crowds. No trash or water. Long drive to services," notes Sadie P. about Irish Point.
Trash issues: Pack out all trash and consider collecting existing litter. "Trash...trash... trash... trash everywhere. I wanted to cry. Cleaned up what I could take back with me, but there was just so much I couldn't take it all," reports C A. about Willow Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose sites with natural shade when possible. At Mann Creek, Amy S. found "a great campground near the reservoir. Lots of shade trees, almost a park like setting. Plenty of room to roam from this base camp."
Swimming areas: Identify shallow water access points for safer swimming. "No boat launch but easy enough for small craft or floaties," mentions Sadie P. about Irish Point Dispersed Camp Ground.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for wildlife encounters. "We heard numerous birds in the area, such as killdeer, mourning doves and owls. We saw a few small bunnies," reports Veronica G. at Owyhee-Dispersed.
Group camping options: Several areas accommodate larger family gatherings. "This is a perfect group spot with 4 different fire pits and sites," notes Imerie T. about Beautiful Boise National Forest.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most dispersed sites lack formal leveling. "Sloped, not much level spots," reports Sadie P. about Irish Point.
Trailer access: Consider road conditions when towing. "Awesome place! Like some of the others said, drive in could be a bit sketchy it you're towing or have a large vehicle - but we passed plenty of boats/RV's, just have to go slow," advises Brianna S. about Arrowrock Reservoir.
Beach parking cautions: Soft sand can create hazards for larger vehicles. "Some people park their trailers at lake front but beware of the dune sand, you might get stuck," warns Conner about Arrowrock Reservoir.
Size limitations: Many areas restrict larger RVs due to road conditions and site size. "We have a 30ft travel trailer and once was probably enough for quite some time. Tough access. Bad road," notes Mike E. about Irish Point.
