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Free Camping Collection

Established Camping

Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access

Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access, near Lava Hot Springs, Idaho, is a straightforward spot for those looking to enjoy some free camping without the frills. This area offers a few back-in sites right by the river, making it a decent choice for tent campers and RVs alike, though you should be prepared for a lack of amenities like water and electricity.

Visitors rave about the stargazing opportunities here, with one camper noting, “The stars were SO bright!” The peaceful morning views are also a highlight, perfect for sipping coffee while soaking in the scenery. While the train noise can be a concern for some, many find it manageable, especially if you’re a fan of the outdoors and prefer a more rustic experience.

If you’re in the mood for a soak, you’re just a short drive from the famous hot springs. Plus, the area is great for fishing, with easy access to the river. Just remember to bring your own supplies, as there are no stores nearby. Whether you're looking to kick back with friends or enjoy a quiet night under the stars, this spot has a laid-back vibe that many campers appreciate.

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Location

Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access is located in Idaho

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

42.64305288 N
112.00505267 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Good
  • Verizon
    Good
  • AT&T
    Fair
  • T-Mobile
    Available

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access needs a permit.

Contact

General Info


Reviews

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5 Stars

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1 Star

34%
25%
17%
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10%

3.5

out of 5

12 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 23, 2023

Great Star Gazing Spot!

We almost didn't stay here because of the low reviews due to the train noise but we were in Lava Hot Springs and this was such a short drive up the road. We arrived pretty late and there were still spots available. We found one big enough for our 21ft travel trailer and vehicle. The site was pretty level too, which we appreciated. We stayed in the last one on the upper loop. The stars were SO bright! We've veen traveling for almost a month and stargazing last night was definitely one of my favorite moments. The train did come by before we went to bed. But we didn't hear it the rest of the night. I am a light sleeper but I do sleep with white noise on, so maybe that helped. The morning views were beautiful! Would definitely stay again!

Sitelast one on upper loop
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access by Wendhy J., August 23, 2023
  • Review photo of Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access by Wendhy J., August 23, 2023
  • Review photo of Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access by Wendhy J., August 23, 2023
  • (7) View All
Reviewed May. 11, 2023

Nice

Dispersed camping close to hot springs, don't miss the hot springs, thay are awesome.

Siteunknown
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Nov. 1, 2021

Free camping

Gravel road in to 8 back in spots some with frie pit . No electricity or water. But they do have a pit toilet. Short walk to fishing in the river. Train does run often right in front of site and does blow horn. All hours.

Siteunmarked
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access by Keith E., November 1, 2021
Reviewed Oct. 5, 2021

Cute Spot for a Night

Cute spot for a night or two, super close to Lava Hot Springs where you can soak and shower.

Month of VisitOctober
Reviewed May. 9, 2021

Save your time! Closed!

Needed a place to crash for the night and this place was the closest one. Got to the location only to be blocked by a barrier.

Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Aug. 22, 2020

Decent little overnight spot

We liked this spot. We were able to hear other campers, but it wasn’t too bad. What you can hear are the trains. I only heard one through the night. For us though, train noise is preferable to hearing a ton of other campers. This location is right on the river, which was beautiful. You will need some sort of mosquito repellent...

  • Review photo of Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access by Vessa N., August 22, 2020
  • Review photo of Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access by Vessa N., August 22, 2020
  • Review photo of Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access by Vessa N., August 22, 2020
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Aug. 14, 2020

Nice spot

The roads a little rough for bigger fifth-wheel. Beautiful view, less than five minutes to Lava and much better than paying the crazy prices in the camp grounds.

Reviewed Jun. 9, 2020

Great camping for those who wanna party

When you have a big group and you like to stay up late and have a good time and be loud while at lava hot springs, this is the place for you! There’s a toilet located here, bring your own TP though. The river is fun to jump in and hang out in! The trains come frequently and at times are pretty loud but it doesn’t bother our group. The camping is free and 100% worth it compared to the strict port neuf or koa campgrounds. TONS and TONS of space. It’s never been full when we go. There’s loads and loads of space. It’s only about 2 miles away from town so if you need to go to the bathroom, go to the store, or shop around or eat at a restaurant, it’s not far away at all! Our two dogs love all the free space as well! There isn’t much shade but there are shrubs all around near the river. So bring your shade tents!

  • Review photo of Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access by Taylor R., June 9, 2020
Reviewed Sep. 16, 2019

Just the way I like it

Those of you that are traveling koas are the best for you I hate koa campin that is for wimps getting your ass out In a tent now is real camping

Reviewed Jul. 31, 2019

Primitive Camping by the River

This is a decent dispersed camping area that has spots scattered along the river.  The only amenities here are the vault toilet and the great fishing.  There were also stone fire rings at all of the sites.  Some interesting placards about the area and wildlife were the only other developed thing and like said below it is very close to the train tracks.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access by Alan B., July 31, 2019
  • Review photo of Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access by Alan B., July 31, 2019
  • Review photo of Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access by Alan B., July 31, 2019
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Jun. 25, 2019

Free Camping, No Luxuries

This free campground has about 10 sites to choose from, mostly RV but occasionally tent camping. There is a bathroom, no luxury showers or a store to buy firewood or items. It’s about a 10min or less drive to Lava Hot Springs in case you need supply. This campground is right next to the river, has a small waterfall and beautiful scenery all around. The road is extremely bumpy so if your have a low car or trailer be careful. The pros of this is its free. 1st come 1st serve, nice, quiet area. The cons, no shower, hook ups, store and the train that runs by Lava Hot Springs can be heard.

  • Review photo of Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access by Shani C., June 25, 2019
  • Review photo of Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access by Shani C., June 25, 2019
  • Review photo of Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access by Shani C., June 25, 2019
  • (4) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the elevation of Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access?

    Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access is located at 5118 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Portneuf River Lower Sportsman Access?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is good, AT&T is fair, and T-Mobile is available.