Free dispersed camping along the historic Lolo Motorway (FR500) requires some planning before arrival. The road is not suitable for low-clearance vehicles, and early-season visitors should call the Lolo Pass Visitor Center at (208) 942-3113 to check conditions before heading out. One reviewer noted chainsaw work was still needed on the trail in mid-June, so timing matters. Pack in everything you need and pack out your garbage. No services beyond a fire pit, picnic table, and toilets are available on-site.
The lake is the central draw. Elk have been spotted on the hillside above the water, and at least one camper watched a cow moose feeding neck-deep in the lake, surfacing aquatic plants to eat. Crowd levels tend to stay low. The setting mixes forested terrain with open ridgeline above the water, giving campers sightlines toward the ridge. Nearby, Nee Me Poo NHT Trailhead Dispersed — Clearwater NF provides another dispersed option for those exploring the corridor, and Gass Creek Dispersed — Clearwater NF sits to the west for campers covering the area. Those planning a broader trip can browse campgrounds near Clearwater National Forest to fill out an itinerary.
Rocky Ridge Lake rewards campers who come prepared and self-sufficient.
Description
Currently the forest is open to dispersed camping in most areas. Limited motorized access for dispersed camping or parking may be allowed from the centerline of designated roads (300 feet) and designated trails (100 feet).
Camping in dispersed sites is limited to a total of 18 days of use. Camps must be moved to a minimum of 5 miles from the original site to qualify for a new 18-day limit; camps cannot be returned to the original sites within 45 days [36 CFR 261.58(a)].
A few rules may be posted on campgrounds or at popular dispersed sites. The rules are meant to protect the site and the environment and to help you enjoy your camping trip.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsRocky Ridge Lake Campground is located in Idaho near Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests
Dispersed CampingCoordinates
46.44051727 N
115.49170027 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
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
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Rocky Ridge Lake Campground needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 3 hrs 11 min from Lewiston, ID
- 3 hrs 45 min from Missoula, MT
- 4 hrs 52 min from Spokane, WA
- 5 hrs from Coeur d'Alene, ID
