Best Dispersed Camping in Idaho

Idaho offers numerous dispersed camping opportunities on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Forest Service. Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed provides riverside camping with established fire rings but requires careful navigation down steep dirt roads. According to reviews, the site features "fantastic views of the canyon" but is "not accessible with trailers due to sketchy narrow road down to the canyon." Targhee Creek near Island Park presents meadow camping with proximity to Yellowstone, while Snake River Canyons Park offers both tent and RV options with toilet facilities.

Most dispersed sites in Idaho require self-sufficiency. No drinking water, trash service, or hookups exist at these locations. Visitors must pack out all waste and bring adequate supplies. Fire restrictions vary seasonally; always check current regulations before travel. High clearance vehicles are recommended for many sites, particularly at Cauldron Linn and Indian Rocks. Several campers noted that "rough narrow rocky tracks" are common, with one reporting that "the road is a little rough but accessible by low clearance car" at some locations.

Stay limits typically range from 3-14 days depending on land management jurisdiction. Henry's Lake BLM Dispersed receives high ratings (4.7/5) and features vault toilets but no other amenities. Little Camas Reservoir near Mountain Home provides toilets and drinking water access. Cell service varies significantly; Targhee Creek visitors report good AT&T reception, while other remote areas have no connectivity. During summer months, prepare for high temperatures and insects. Respect private property boundaries, as some dispersed areas border private lands with limited signage. Always obtain current maps from ranger stations before venturing to remote sites.

Best Dispersed Sites in Idaho (185)

    1. Cauldron Linn BLM Dispersed

    30 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

    14 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

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

    "Be weary of fire bans"

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

    9. Silver Creek Public Access Dispersed

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

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

    "Great spots near a slow moving river with bathrooms and shade and picnic tables. The best dispersed camping I have ever found!"

    10. 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."

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Showing results 1-10 of 185 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews in Idaho

442 Reviews of 185 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.