Dispersed camping options near Greenacres, Washington offer free overnight stays on public lands across eastern Washington and northern Idaho. The terrain alternates between open prairie and forested areas, with elevations ranging from 2,000-3,000 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, with afternoon winds common across exposed camping areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 3-day limit: At Bull Run Access Dispersed, campers can fish the Coeur d'Alene River. "This is Idaho Fish and Wildlife property and has a 3-day maximum stay," notes one camper. The site provides easy water access for anglers.
Hiking trails: connecting routes: The Fishtrap Recreation Area offers trails directly from the camping area. "There's also a trail that connects off the lot," one reviewer mentions. Another camper adds it has "a really nice hiking trail behind it. Worth a stop."
Paddling routes: seasonal conditions: For paddlers, North Fork Coeur D'Alene River provides excellent water access. "The water is honestly my favorite part about this spot! You're not camping right on it as there are some bushes and an incline, but every spot has a tiny little 1 minute walk down to the water," reports one visitor. Another adds, "During the summer float months, you can find a large dumpster at the entrance to throw away your garbage."
What campers like
Privacy levels: site selection: While many dispersed sites near Greenacres offer minimal privacy, certain locations provide secluded options. At Bull Run Access, a reviewer recommends: "If you drive past the first couple grass campsites and continue on the narrow road with water on both sides, just off to the right is a single secluded campsite amongst the tree. The best site there imo. privacy, lots of trees."
Night sounds: wildlife experience: Free camping near Greenacres, Washington often includes nocturnal wildlife encounters. At Hog Lake Campground, campers report: "Around 2:00 a.m. every morning the coyotes have a 2 to 3 minute party. It's amazing to hear him. Never saw one though they keep away."
Water views: sunset spots: Many campers appreciate the lakeside settings available at dispersed sites. At Rose Lake, a visitor notes: "There seemed to be two large lots (one grass, one gravel) that were camping permissible. You can walk down to the lake and sit on the dock to watch the sunset."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: access roads: Many free camping sites near Greenacres require navigating unpaved roads. At Rose Lake, a camper mentions: "I struggled with this place, it would be really great if the two lot areas were level. There isn't a level spot anywhere." For Hog Lake, a reviewer advises: "We have a 21ft trailer towed behind a pickup truck and it's able to fit in most spots."
Seasonal challenges: summer heat: The region experiences hot, dry summers that affect camping comfort. A Fishtrap Recreation Area visitor warns: "I will advise tent campers it is tent accessible but not the easiest spot in a tent. The soil is very dry and a couple of the spots were hard rocks and not accessible for tents."
Site availability: timing considerations: Securing preferred sites often depends on arrival time. A Hog Lake camper notes: "Came on a Saturday night and it was crazy busy, Sunday was calmer." Another camper adds: "Most of the sites are in open spots with little shade and little privacy, if you show up past 5 you'll probably end up in one of those."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education: safe viewing: Families can use camping trips as educational opportunities about local wildlife. At Hog Lake, one reviewer mentioned experiencing "wild turkeys, a variety of birds, the sound of coyotes not far, field squirrels and snakes."
Water safety: lake conditions: When camping with children at lakeside locations like Cooks Lake, be aware of water conditions. A visitor reports: "The beach is dirt and sharp rock, and mostly sloped, probably 150 feet long? and narrow." However, they add that "The water was warm and we swam all day. Bats at night, and the stars!!"
Site security: visitor traffic: Consider security when selecting family camping spots. One Lakes Divide Road camper reports: "My husband and I went to this location and the first couple sites were taken and we found a rd to the left near the end and took it with a site right to the left as you turned. We were trying to get comfortable but just couldn't. Some people showed up and were lingering around us."
Tips from RVers
Solar power: unshaded sites: RVers using solar power will find suitable conditions at many dispersed sites. Fishtrap Recreation Area offers "very quiet open spots" with minimal tree cover for solar charging.
Leveling requirements: site preparation: Be prepared for uneven terrain at most free sites. For Bull Run Access, an RVer states: "We were able to get our fifth wheel (40ft long, 13 1/2 ft tall) in and out easy! Lots of spaces and places to turn around."
Overnight access: roadside considerations: For those arriving after dark, Hog Lake offers accessible roadside camping. "Found this last minute after deciding to drive further than planned. Quite a few spots available," notes one camper. Another adds: "We got in around 10:30pm with our campervan and while most places were taken up, we thought we got lucky with the one closest to the lake."
