Best Dispersed Camping in Idaho

One of the least populated states in America, Idaho is the third state that makes up the Pacific Northwest—besides Oregon and Washington. This is a large and wild state, spanning two time zones and stretching from the Canadian border all the way south to Utah and Nevada. Its vast tracts of old-growth forests, various subranges of the Rocky Mountains and Hells Canyon, America’s deepest canyon, make camping in Idaho an essential thing to do during any visit.

Idaho’s wide variety in landscapes and biotopes, from arid plains to towering mountains, from pristine forests to river canyons, attract an equally varied array of visitors. Fishermen are drawn to the state’s abundant and exceptional fish species. It’s the West’s only inland state where you can catch blue-ribbon trout as well as king salmon and steelhead. Mountain bikers, rock climbers, and boaters find delight camping in Idaho’s wildernesses.

Hiking and camping in Idaho is, however, arguably the state’s most popular outdoor pursuit. And it’s available all across the state. A particularly great destination is the Boise National Forest, the location of the awesome Red Mountain Trail. Other fantastic places to go backpacking and camping in Idaho include Craters of the Moon National Monument, the remarkable Bruneau Dunes State Park and iconic Yellowstone National Park, a sliver of which lies in the state’s southeastern corner.

In the middle of southern Idaho lies Shoshone Falls, a series of huge cascades on the Snake River sometimes referred to as the “Niagara of the West”. The Snake River meanders its way further west, making up the northern part of the Oregon and Idaho border, and flows through massive Hells Canyon. Ten miles wide and almost 8,000 feet deep, this is the deepest river canyon in North America, an absolutely natural gem to explore when camping in Idaho.

Best Dispersed Sites in Idaho (179)

    1. Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed

    29 Reviews
    Murtaugh, ID
    Website
    +1 (208) 732-7200

    "Tent or car camp but not accessible with trailers due to sketchy narrow road down to the canyon."

    "Steep dirt road down. Several spots along the dirt path on the way down to the river bed of varying degrees of difficulty. No amenities save for a rock fire pit or two."

    2. Targhee Creek

    26 Reviews
    West Yellowstone, ID
    Website

    "This site is about 20 miles west of Yellowstone in Idaho. Great spot with easy access. Beautiful views and the blue mountains in the distance at sunset make this site a crowd pleaser."

    "Great dispersed camp area . Rugged 2 track with established ( flat clearing with rock fire ring) camp spots on both sides."

    3. Snake River Canyons Park - Rickett's RV Camp

    22 Reviews
    Twin Falls, ID
    Website
    +1 (208) 293-2426

    "Ricketts BLM RV Camp just north of Twin Falls."

    "Nicer than some National Forest campgrounds with the same amenities. Pit toilets and that’s it. The toilets were clean and the one by our site even had a light on!"

    4. Little Camas Reservoir

    20 Reviews
    Mountain Home, ID
    Website

    "Perfect for an overnight stop during a long drive. The access road also serves residential property some distance away so is well maintained."

    "This is a clearly dispersed location. There is a single pit toilet. Camped right next to the lake. Lots of bugs being close to water but seemingly few mosquitoes"

    5. Henry's Lake BLM Dispersed

    17 Reviews
    Island Park, ID

    "There’s no official spots since it’s dispersed but several pull outs along the dirt road. There are 2 clean vault toilets that were stocked. Free to stay but no amenities other than toilet."

    "We got into Henry’s Lake Dispersed area around 6pm on a Saturday night. We stayed to the left of when the road splits, because that’s where the pit toilets were."

    6. Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed

    18 Reviews
    Idaho City, ID
    Website

    "Where the coordinates are on this map is about 30 minutes down a gravel road that looks ok, but is very rutted."

    "Me and boyfriend enjoy going here in the fall and spring to get away from the city for a day or two. There is hiking right across the street. Mt Heinen which is a very strenous hike."

    7. Indian Rocks - Dispersed Camping

    13 Reviews
    McCammon, ID
    Website
    +1 (208) 478-6340

    "GPS correct, no signage and just off highway West. Small 60x40 yard gravel/dirt lot a quarter mile up improved road with some potholes."

    "Close to highway, easy driven dirt road with plenty of flat spots to park. Good for one night while passing through."

    8. Wolf Flats Recreation Area

    12 Reviews
    Ririe, ID
    Website
    +1 (208) 524-7500

    "There are extra pull offs by the river before the main area, perfect for car camping!"

    "Driving down to Wolf Flats is beautiful. It is forested with a butte on one side, and the snake river on the other. The campsites are somewhat primitive, but we like that."

    9. McClendon Spring Campground

    11 Reviews
    Malta, ID
    +1 (208) 677-6600

    "What a great find during our travels through Southern Idaho. Situated by a pond with lots of birds made our stay very peaceful."

    "Well maintained dirt road and toilet! Great hanging with all the cows. Amazing views! Don’t use Apple Maps. Google will get you there on the easiest road."

    10. Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Picabo, ID
    Website
    +1 (208) 886-2206

    "Turn at the BLM sign and take a little gravel road to several free creekside spots!"

    "One site had a picnic table, tent pad and pit toilet, but was already occupied. The second location had two picnic tables with awnings, two tent pads and one pit toilet, complete with a mouse."

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Showing results 1-10 of 179 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews in Idaho

409 Reviews of 179 Idaho Campgrounds



Guide to Idaho

Idaho offers a wealth of opportunities for those seeking the freedom and adventure of dispersed camping. With stunning landscapes and a variety of amenities, it's a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tips for free and dispersed camping in Idaho

  • Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed: This site allows campfires and is pet-friendly, making it a great choice for families and furry companions.
  • Targhee Creek: Enjoy a relatively private camping experience with good cell service, ideal for those who want to stay connected while enjoying nature.
  • Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed: This location is big rig-friendly and features toilets, providing a bit more comfort while you enjoy the great outdoors.

Top activities while free camping in Idaho

Top attractions for dispersed campers

  • Little Camas Reservoir: This picturesque spot offers beautiful views and is a great place for swimming and picnicking, though be prepared for some bugs.
  • Rose Lake: Known for its scenic beauty, this area provides opportunities for wildlife watching and peaceful lakeside relaxation.
  • Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed: Enjoy creekside camping with picnic tables and fire pits, making it an ideal spot for a cozy evening under the stars.