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Camper submitted image from Palisades ReservoirView 21 Photos
CampingMap showing campground location near Alpine, Idaho

Palisades Reservoir

7 ReviewsAdd Review

Boaters and water sports enthusiasts will find Palisades Reservoir offers direct access to 70 miles of shoreline for wakeboarding, tubing, and fishing. This dispersed camping area sits within Targhee National Forest, providing free camping with vault toilets and boat ramps scattered along the water's edge. The reservoir accommodates everything from tent campers to large RVs and toy haulers, though Katherine B. notes "the ground near the reservoir can get very silty and muddy if there has been recent wet weather."

Campers can choose from numerous spots along the expansive shoreline or opt for tree-covered sites closer to the entrance. The rugged access road requires slow driving, and sites range from open areas with stone fire rings to more secluded spots in tall grass. Most locations lack picnic tables, keeping the experience truly dispersed. Highway noise affects some sites near the entrance but typically diminishes at night.

The area maintains clean vault toilets near entrances and allows campfires when fire restrictions aren't in effect. Camping limits vary by season, with five-night maximums common during peak periods. Late spring brings mosquitoes to this marshy environment, though they're manageable with appropriate clothing. Several nearby options include Blowout Campground — Bureau Of Land Management and Indian Creek for campers wanting more structured amenities.

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Map & DirectionsPalisades Reservoir is located in Idaho near Alpine

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Directions

 The Palisades Dam and Reservoir are located on the Snake River about 55 miles southeast of Idaho Falls, Idaho on Hwy 26.

Coordinates

43.2697005 N
111.12950081 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites
  • Big Rig Friendly

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

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Reviews7 Camper Reviews - Palisades Reservoir

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5 Stars

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1 Star

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4.5

out of 5

7 Reviews

Reviewed May. 4, 2026

Nice area with lots of open space

I wouldn't call it a campground in the traditional sense, but certainly dispersed. A large area (not in the middle of the reservoir, as the pin suggests) with an expanse of spots to choose from. No picnic tables. The road is very rugged so go slow. Most sites are out in the open with stone fire rings. I chose one closer to the entrance for the tree coverage. It was close to the highway, so there was traffic noise, but it lessened during the night and didn't bother me. Bathroom facilities were clean, as well as the general area. Starting May 1st the number of nights were limited to 5.

Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Mar. 14, 2023

Beach front

There is a few sites free up to 3 or the large site up to 5 nights. Beautiful sites, fishing, and a boat ramp.

SiteIndian creek campground
Month of VisitAugust
  • Play button icon
  • Review photo of Palisades Reservoir by Chelsie B., March 14, 2023
  • Review photo of Palisades Reservoir by Chelsie B., March 14, 2023
Reviewed Jun. 24, 2022

Easy to Drive to & Beautiful

We stayed up to the limit of five nights. Vault toilet close to the entrance well stocked with tp. Many spots to choose from whether you’re a solo tent camper or have a big group with RVs and rec vehicles, you can stay close to the water or hide near the trees. Good water access for kayaks and fishing. You get a little road noise, but didn’t keep us awake. Great spot!

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Palisades Reservoir by Jamie C., June 24, 2022
  • Review photo of Palisades Reservoir by Jamie C., June 24, 2022
  • Play button icon
Reviewed Sep. 3, 2021

Plenty of room

Quiet and beautiful. The water was low when we arrived, but we could see the water from our spot. We picked an area up in the tall grass, but several people including large trailers were set up on the shore. There are so many spots to set up here that you can really enjoy a quiet evening.

Sitegrass
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Palisades Reservoir by Clay H., September 3, 2021
  • Review photo of Palisades Reservoir by Clay H., September 3, 2021
  • Play button icon
Reviewed Jun. 5, 2020

One reservoir, many options

Ultimate lake camping; bring your boat for wakeboarding, tubing, or just relaxing. Even human powered vehicles can be enjoyed; especially close to shore. So much to explore! There are so many places to get out and camp, many of these dispersed camping areas include vault toilets at the entrances, although not much else besides a boat ramp. Some of them are better than others, so be sure to check it out before launching your boat. The ground near the reservoir can get very silty and muddy if there has been recent wet weather, you risk getting your vehicle stuck if you back in too far. Even the dirt roads can get that way - but pay attention and you'll be fine. There were several toy haulers and RVs that made it in and made it out without incident; my group managed to get in and out ok too. 

In late May, it still gets cold at night yet there are mosquitos in this marshy area. They're not too bad, but if you're sensitive to the bites be prepared. I was fine in long sleeves and pants, they mostly left me alone. Fires are allowed most of the time, unless there is a red flag warning. Its your responsibility to know what isn't allowed, there are typically signs posted at the entrances if there are restrictions. Pets are fine too. I think the camping limit was 14 days, but that may have been at the site we chose. Others may be less. 

We stayed at one of very many sites along the reservoir. With 70 miles of shoreline, you're bound to have your own unique experience.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Palisades Reservoir by Katherine B., June 5, 2020
  • Review photo of Palisades Reservoir by Katherine B., June 5, 2020
Showing results 1-7 of 7 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the regulations for camping at Palisades Reservoir?

Camping at Palisades Reservoir allows stays up to 5 nights maximum. The area offers dispersed camping with minimal facilities - primarily vault toilets that are generally well-maintained and stocked with toilet paper. There are no designated campsites with hookups or advanced reservations. The camping is free, but visitors should follow standard dispersed camping guidelines: pack out all trash, maintain appropriate distance from water sources, and practice Leave No Trace principles. Fire restrictions may apply seasonally, so check current conditions before your trip.

Is Palisades Reservoir in Idaho or Wyoming?

Palisades Reservoir is located on the Idaho-Wyoming border. The reservoir itself spans both states, with portions in both Idaho and Wyoming. The majority of the popular camping areas and access points are on the Idaho side, but the reservoir's waters and some recreation areas extend into Wyoming as well.

Where are the best spots for dispersed camping at Palisades Reservoir?

Palisades Reservoir offers numerous excellent dispersed camping options. Many preferred spots are along the shoreline, which are perfect for immediate water access and boat launching. For more privacy, look for areas set back in the tall grass or near the trees. The reservoir accommodates various camping styles - whether you're a solo tent camper or traveling with a large group using RVs. Some areas have vault toilets near the entrances. Even with lower water levels at times, you can still find beautiful camping spots with reservoir views. The diverse terrain allows for both waterfront camping and more secluded options.

How do I get to Palisades Reservoir from nearby cities?

Palisades Reservoir is accessible via US Highway 26, which runs along its northern shore. From Idaho Falls, head east on US-26 for approximately 55 miles. If coming from Jackson, Wyoming, travel west on US-26/US-89 for about 35 miles. The reservoir is also accessible from Alpine, Wyoming, which is only about 5 miles away. Several access roads branch off from the highway to various camping and recreation areas around the reservoir. Most roads are well-maintained and suitable for passenger vehicles, though some dispersed camping areas may require higher clearance.

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