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65 Best Central Idaho Boondocking Camp Sites With Maps

Travel Idaho Boondocking, Boondocking, North West U.S. Boondocking / By / 27 minutes of reading

There are a number of public lands that offer free Idaho boondocking camp sites. The crowds may be less there, too, meaning you could have an easier time finding a place to camp than some of the other areas around the Northwest.

Table of Contents

These Boondocking & Camping Areas are concentrated in the Central part of Idaho

Free Idaho Dispersed Campsites

Birch Creek Campground– Leadore, ID – There are established and primitive campsites available here. The developed Idaho RV parking campsites with fire rings and picnic tables make up about 25 sites and Central Idaho camping at primitive campsites are optional throughout. There are also restrooms for public use.

Bill Frome County Park– Island Park, ID – There are 40 Idaho boondocking camp sites available for camping with a maximum stay of 15 days on-site. Most of the campsites do have fire rings and picnic tables. There is no water or electricity available but vault toilets are in camp.

Henry Lake BLM – Island, ID – Access to this campsite is through a gravel road. There are 6-15 Idaho dispersed campsites available for use on a first come first served basis. If you camp in an RV the length can be no longer than 45 feet. You may stay up to 14 days on camp. There are some restrooms but the camp is primarily a dry camp.

Targhee Creek Trailhead– Island Park, ID – Access to this campsite is a dirt road only. The options for camp are either tent or Central Idaho RV Parking but the RV length can not exceed 35 feet. You may however stay up to 16 days here. There is a fire ring on each campsite. These Idaho Boondocking camp sites are a dry camp with no restrooms or water available.

Herrick Reservoir Access – Cascade, ID – This is a dry campground only. There is no water or restrooms. You must take out what you bring in. There are some really good free Idaho boondocking camp sites for fishing and access to the camp is easy by paved road.

Short’s Bar– Riggins, ID – The free Idaho dispersed campsites is on the left-hand side of the campground and you may park near the river. The campground has dispersed primitive camping with a 14-day stay option. There are pit toilets on the Central Idaho RV parking sites.

Josephus Lake Campground – Stanley, ID – The road into this campground is a dirt road but there are options for tent and Idaho RV parking and camping on site. Your RV may not be any longer than 15 feet. You may camp here for up to 14 days. There are 2 vault toilets in the campground. Each campsite does have a fire ring and picnic table for campers.

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65 Best Central Idaho Boondocking Camp Sites

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1. MacKay Bar

Address
Painter Mine Road
Warren, Idaho
GPS: 45.392354, -115.494458
Elevation: 2264′

Management: Public – Forest Service

The road in is 4×4. Idaho boondocking camp sites are located within the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest’s Red River Ranger District. To reach this camping area, 4 wheel drive and high clearance are suggested.

2. Yellowjacket Lake

Address
Forest Road 371
Challis, Idaho
GPS: 45.066836, -114.551364
Elevation: 7953′

Management: Public – State Park

Idaho boondocking camp sites in Yellowjacket Lake is open Jul-Oct. This is a high elevation location.

3. Lemhi Hole Access

Address
Salmon, Idaho
GPS: 45.1868, -113.89357
Elevation: 3917′

Management: Public – Idaho Fish & Game (Official)

Idaho boondocking camp sites in a large hard-pack parking lot next to the Salmon River, on the northern edge of Salmon Idaho. From US-93 turn east on Lemhi Hole Raod. Vault toilet, no trash pickup, no fires, no tables. 10-day camping limit. It’s not fancy but, and there’s some road noise, but it’s handy to town and I was the only one there on Labor Day weekend. Meanwhile, the campgrounds were full

4. Bobcat Gulch

Address
1626-1636 Casey Road
North Fork, Idaho
GPS: 45.365408, -113.964287
Elevation: 3661′

Management: Public – State Park

Free Idaho dispersed campsites. This campsite does nuse a reservation systerm. First come, first served. I got the one site right along the river with trees and partial shade. It was a well worn loop with multiple rock rimmed fire pits. A short walk through the brush put me on the river bank.

5. Granite Springs

Address
Magruder Corridor Road
Elk City, Idaho
GPS: 45.725052, -115.129186
Elevation: 6663′

Management: Public – Forest Service

Idaho boondocking camp sites are located within the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest’s Red River Ranger District.

6. Divide TH

Address
National Forest Development Road 038
North Fork, Idaho
GPS: 45.469506, -114.311297
Elevation: 8015′

Management: Public – Forest Service

Idaho dispersed campsites are located within the Bitterroot National Forest’s West Fork Ranger District. This is a high elevation location.

7. Chief Joseph Pass Trailhead

Address
Gibbonsville, Idaho
GPS: 45.68589, -113.933374
Elevation: 7283′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

The road in is Gravel and 1/4 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 Idaho boondocking camp sites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 at Chief Joseph Pass Trailhead. Parking lot for Trailhead. 7000′ elevation. Open to solar / satellite. Vault toilet. Any size rig. 45.685890, -113.933374.

8. Horseshoe Lake

Address
Ashton, Idaho
GPS: 44.16152, -111.10532
Elevation: 6519′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

The road in is Gravel. There are 6-15 Idaho boondocking camp sites at this location. Nice location with several nice campsites, some by the lake and some more private sites just above. There are bear boxes and rock fire rings, but no other services provided. The gravel road was in good shape except for a couple of potholes, could easily be driven with 2wd.

9. Pole bridge

Address
Island Park, Idaho
GPS: 44.262996, -111.288232
Elevation: 6047′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

The road in is Dirt and 7.2 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 Idaho boondocking camp sites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 at Pole bridge. Pole bridge campground Ashton, ID. Near Mesa falls. FREE. GPS: 44 15.773 -111 17.379 1 mile north of Mesa falls, turn on warm river road follow sign to pole bridge campground . Muddy and rutty in the early summer. 4.7 miles to campground from sign. 7.2 mlles total from Mesa falls road. Fine for most rigs but beware for ruts and mud. Picnic table, fire pits but no water or cell service.

10. Fish Pond

Address
Island Park, Idaho
GPS: 44.320886, -111.432482
Elevation: 6122′

Management: Public – Forest Service

The road in is Gravel and .1 miles from a paved road. The maximum RV length at Fish Pond is unlimited. Idaho boondocking camp sites next to Henry’s Fork and very accessible to Highway 20. There are NO services here. Its possible that its a dugway because there has been a lot of gravel taken from this area. Good access to the river for fishing. I didn’t see a boat launch but there were boats that floated by.

11. Red Rock Pass

Address
Island Park, Idaho
GPS: 44.5864, -111.3697
Elevation: 6519′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

The road in is Paved. Red Rock Pass is open Closed in the winter. There are 6-15 Idaho boondocking camp sites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 at Red Rock Pass. Camping in Caribou-Targhee National Forest. Large wooded area. Directly off paved road.

12. Island Park Boondocking

Address
Off Hwy 20
Island Park, Idaho
GPS: 44.57835, -111.34218
Elevation: 6490′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife (Unofficial)

The road in is Dirt and >1 miles from a paved road. Island Park Boondocking is open Spring, Summer, Fall. The maximum RV length at Island Park Boondocking is Any. You may stay 16 days in Idaho boondocking camp sites at Island Park Boondocking. Off Hwy 20, North of Hungry Bear store, left on Boot Jack Pass rd, make a quick right on a dirt road, just past the fence line off to the left is an area
people spend the summer boondocking.

13. Sawtell Mountain

Address
Island Park, Idaho
GPS: 44.533943, -111.418132
Elevation: 7736′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

The road in is Gravel and 6 miles from a paved road. Sawtell Mountain is open may-sept. There are 6-15 Idaho boondocking camp sites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 14 days at Sawtell Mountain. Stayed here 8-2015. There are several pull offs going up Sawtelle Peak Road for tents and truck campers, but this one is large enough for camper trailers. Sawtelle Peak Road is very well maintained. This is grizzly country so be bear aware. Also I had a moose attack my campsite here.

14. Targee forest service road 413

Address
Island Park, Idaho
GPS: 44.436124, -111.373781
Elevation: 6309′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

The road in is Gravel and One mile miles from a paved road. Targee forest service road 413 is open Unknown. There are 16-29 Idaho boondocking camp sites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 16 days at Targee forest service road 413. Disperse 16 day camping, on or close to Island Park lake,pine trees, no restroom.restroom one at boat dock only,off road vehicles permitted with a few trails for bicycles also, fishing,rubber rafting down river from dam also very scenic.

15. Boat Launch

Address
Island Park, Idaho
GPS: 44.42553, -111.38861
Elevation: 6309′

Management: Public – Boat Launch (Unofficial)

Idaho boondocking camp sites at Boat Launch. Stayed here two nights. Boat launch that was closed as the lake was frozen and all kinds of snow. No one ever showed up and there was a vault toilet near by.

16. Fish Pond

Address
Island Park, Idaho
GPS: 44.320886, -111.432482
Elevation: 6122′

Management: Public – Forest Service

The road in is Gravel and .1 miles from a paved road. The maximum RV length at Fish Pond is unlimited. Idaho boondocking camp sites next to Henry’s Fork and very accessible to Highway 20. There are NO services here. Its possible that its a dugway because there has been a lot of gravel taken from this area. Good access to the river for fishing. I didn’t see a boat launch but there were boats that floated by.

17. Stoddard Creek Dispersed Camping

Address
Spencer, Idaho
GPS: 44.421165, -112.22348
Elevation: 6355′

Management: Public (Unofficial)

The road in is Paved. Stoddard Creek Dispersed Camping is open NA. There are 30 or more Idaho boondocking camp sites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 16 days at Stoddard Creek Dispersed Camping. Pull off and campsite adjacent to a Forest Service campsite. Water and vault toilets available at FS campground. This is a small dead-end canyon with many large established campsites that can accommodate large groups. ATV trail head at end of canyon.

18. Spencer

Address
Spencer, Idaho
GPS: 44.362213, -112.282158
Elevation: 7321′

Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Unofficial)

The road in is Dirt and 11 miles from a paved road. Spencer is open Spring, Summer, Fall. There are 30 or more Idaho boondocking camp sites at this location and the maximum RV length is any. You may stay 16 at Spencer. About 21 miles from Dubois Id. From town go west over I-15, make first right, go 11 miles. Look for antelope on left they are plentiful. Turn left at NFS road 323 go 9 miles to east cottonwood creek area. Camping also at Petelzic creek area.

19. Birch Creek Campground

Address
Leadore, Idaho
GPS: 44.132973, -112.893616
Elevation: 5989′

Management: (Unofficial)

The road in is Gravel and 1/4 miles from a paved road. There are 16-29 Idaho boondocking camp sites at this location. This campground includes twenty campsites in the Birch Creek valley.

20. Little Lost River

Address
Unnamed Road
Howe, Idaho
GPS: 44.144841, -113.243734
Elevation: 5919′

Management: Public – State Park

Free Idaho dispersed campsites. First come -> first served. No reservations accepted.

21. Summit Creek

Address
Pahsimeroi Road
May, Idaho
GPS: 44.272377, -113.449158
Elevation: 6407′

Management: Public – Bureau of Land Management

Idaho boondocking camp sites in Summit Creek is open May-Oct. Idaho boondocking camp sites are located within the Bureau of Land Management: Challis District. BLM campsite with two pit toilets, no running water and no cell phone service. Remote, a 30-40 minute drive via Pass Creek to Mackey for supplies. Designated campsites with picnic tables and fire rings. Popular with ATVers. The campsite is surrounded by BLM land, so expect to see some cattle wandering by. I wouldn’t recommend camping alone here for women; I’ve encountered some odd mountain men there upon occasion. The creek runs year-round.

22. Hawley Creek, Lower Campground

Address
Forest Service Road #275
Leadore, Idaho
GPS: 44.667269, -113.190316
Elevation: 6677′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

Hawley Creek, Lower Campground is open 5/15 – 10/15. There are 1-5 Idaho boondocking camp sites at this location. The lower campground has 4 sites and also has potable water. Fishing in Hawley Creek, and in the reservoir.

23. Timber Creek Reservoir (Upper)

Address
Forest Road 207
Leadore, Idaho
GPS: 44.576876, -113.470987
Elevation: 7605′

Management: Public – Forest Service

Timber Creek Reservoir (Upper) is open May-Sep. Idaho boondocking camp sites are located within the Salmon-Challis National Forest’s Leadore Ranger District. This is a high elevation location.

24. Colson Creek Access

Address
Salmon, Idaho
GPS: 44.75299, -113.99549
Elevation: 4551′

Management: Public – Bureau of Land Management: (Official)

Idaho boondocking camp sites along the Salmon River, several sites with fire pits. A single vault toilet, with the interior colorfully painted. Right next to US93.

25. Morgan Creek Campground

Address
Challis, Idaho
GPS: 44.66795, -114.2294
Elevation: 5557′

Management: Public – Bureau of Land Management

This small campground is reached by taking Highway 93 five miles north of Challis to Morgan creek, then driving four miles up the canyon to the recreation site. The campground is located at the foot of a valley just before the canyon and is bordered by Morgan Creek. Idaho boondocking camp sites located near a Bighorn Sheep Management Area.

26. Deer Gulch River Access

Address
Salmon, Idaho
GPS: 44.704, -114.042
Elevation: 4633′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

The road in is Gravel and 0.3 miles from a paved road. There are 16-29 Idaho boondocking camp sites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 10 days at Deer Gulch River Access. 2 large areas over the bridge on Deer Gulch Road off US93 1 mi N of Ellis, fishing access to Salmon River, grass, trees for sun & shade, mosquitoes, firerings, vault toilets.

27. Watts Bridge Access

Address
U.S. 93
Ellis, Idaho
GPS: 44.631552, -114.145074
Elevation: 4757′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

Idaho boondocking camp sites at Watts Bridge Access is open all year. Beautiful pull off by the bridge surrounded by Cottonwoods. About 6 campsites, one directly on the river.

28. Penal Gulch Access Area

Address
U.S. 93
Challis, Idaho
GPS: 44.582217, -114.192694
Elevation: 4849′

Management: Public – State Park

Free Idaho dispersed campsites. First come -> first camped. No reservations are accepted. Public access at Pennal Gulch is provided through an easement across private property and therefore, the road is closed to access from one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise throughout the year.

29. Mahoney Springs

Address
National Forest Development Road 86
Challis, Idaho
GPS: 44.6604, -114.542307
Elevation: 8422′

Management: Public – Forest Service

Mahoney Springs is open Jul-Oct. Idaho boondocking camp sites are located within the Salmon-Challis National Forest’s Middle Fork Ranger District. First come -> first served. No reservations accepted.This is a high elevation location.

30. Indian Springs

Address
Road 004
Stanley, Idaho
GPS: 44.675254, -114.837675
Elevation: 7818′

Management: Public – Forest Service

Idaho boondocking camp sites at Indian Springs is open Jul-Oct. Two primitive campsites surrounded by Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. Sites include picnic tables and fire rings, vault toilet is in the campground. Multiple trails for hiking and stock use are nearby.

31. Josephus Lake Campground

Address
Forest Road 008
Stanley, Idaho
GPS: 44.549111, -115.142638
Elevation: 7041′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

The road in is Dirt. Josephus Lake Campground is open 7/1 – 10/1. There are 1-5 Idaho boondocking camp sites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. You may stay 14 days at Josephus Lake Campground. Three campsites on Josephus Lake, near the border of the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. Sites include picnic tables and fire rings; campground also includes a vault toilet. Hiking trail from campground heads west into the wilderness, branching out through a lake-filled region before reaching the Wild and Scenic Middle Fork of the Salmon River. The lake is too small for motorboats.

32. Sack Creek

Address
Bear Valley Road
Lowman, Idaho
GPS: 44.358241, -115.407046
Elevation: 6535′

Management: Public – Forest Service

Free Idaho Dispersed campsites in the Boise National Forest’s Lowman Ranger District. No reservations. First come, first served.

33. Lake Creek TH

Address
Herd Lake Road
Challis, Idaho
GPS: 44.105776, -114.242846
Elevation: 6188′

Management: Public – Bureau of Land Management

Idaho dispersed campsites in the Bureau of Land Management: Challis District. No reservations. First come, first served.

34. Gold Creek Access Area

Address
Idaho 75
Stanley, Idaho
GPS: 44.13499, -114.876476
Elevation: 6509′

Management: Public – State Park

Idaho boondocking camp sites near just off Idaho 75 near Gold Creek.

35. Jimmy Smith TH

Address
Unnamed Road
Clayton, Idaho
GPS: 44.160195, -114.390165
Elevation: 6076′

Management: Public – Bureau of Land Management

Idaho dispersed campsites at Jimmy Smith TH is open May-Oct. Idaho dispersed campsites in the Bureau of Land Management: Challis District. First come -> first served. No reservations accepted.

36. Little Boulder

Address
East Fork Road
Challis, Idaho
GPS: 44.088573, -114.445005
Elevation: 6168′

Management: Public – Bureau of Land Management

Idaho dispersed campsites are located within the Bureau of Land Management: Challis District.

37. Dispersed Camping Along the Salmon River

Address
Stanley, Idaho
GPS: 44.26355, -114.812445
Elevation: 6063′

Management: Public

Idaho dispersed campsites throughout a long stretch of the Salmon River. The site we stayed at was complete with benches, outhouse tables, campfire circle, and a flat space to pitch up tent. Beautiful site just beside the river. I would absolutely stay here again. Many sites can only be accessed from the side of the river opposite the highway, but if you continue on towards stanley their were plenty of pull outs that allow you to camp far from the road and close to the river. Lovely!

38. Basin Creek

Address
Basin Creek Road
Stanley, Idaho
GPS: 44.294128, -114.876804
Elevation: 6385′

Management: Public – Forest Service

Idaho dispersed campsites in the Salmon-Challis National Forest’s Challis Yankee Ranger District. This campsite does nuse a reservation systerm. First come, first served.

39. Nip and Tuck Forest Service Road

Address
Stanley, Idaho
GPS: 44.237688, -114.962356
Elevation: 6650′

Management: Public – National Park Service

About six Idaho dispersed campsites out here on a ridge road above Stanley. 2wd accessible, fire pits in some spots. Great views, close to town and mountain biking trails intersect the road.

40. Stanley FR 619

Address
Lowman, Idaho
GPS: 44.211641, -114.981747
Elevation: 6460′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

On the FR 619 to Iron Creek to Sawtooth Lake Trailhead just west of Stanley. Approx 10 Idaho dispersed campsites clearly marked with signs and fire rings. 4G LTE cell service. Pay campground near the trailhead with potable water and trash dumpster. Get there early as they fill up quickly due to the amazingly beautiful lake hike. Pit toilet at pay campground & trailhead.

41. Red Fish Lake SR 210

Address
Stanley, Idaho
GPS: 44.145277, -114.893314

Management: Public – Forest Service

3-4 Idaho dispersed campsites off SR 210. First left after you turn on to SR 214 from Highway 75. The campsites are very obvious pull-offs from the dirt road. Areas are flat, some are partially shaded due to surrounding trees. Highway noise, but not bad at all due to very minimal traffic. Would not suggest for small trailers due to potholes in the road leading to the campsites.

42. Salmon River

Address
National Forest Rd 654D
Stanley, Idaho
GPS: 44.171272, -114.905958
Elevation: 6459′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

The road in is Paved. Salmon River is open Unknown. There are 6-15 Idaho boondocking camp sites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 10 at Salmon River. This is a Forest Service site with NO FEE. Has a pit toilet, 10 day stay limit. Minimal shade but is cool year ’round. No street address but is on NF Rd 654D, 654 E, 654F South of Stanley, ID. Co-Ordinates: 44.171721, -114.905817

43. Stanley FR 619

Address
Lowman, Idaho
GPS: 44.211641, -114.981747
Elevation: 6460′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

On the FR 619 to Iron Creek to Sawtooth Lake Trailhead just west of Stanley. Approx 10 Idaho dispersed campsites clearly marked with signs and fire rings. 4G LTE cell service. Pay campground near the trailhead with potable water and trash dumpster ???? Get there early as they fill up quickly due to the amazingly beautiful lake hike. Pit toilet at pay campground & trailhead.

44. Sack Creek

Address
Bear Valley Road
Lowman, Idaho
GPS: 44.358241, -115.407046
Elevation: 6535′

Management: Public – Forest Service

Free Idaho dispersed campsites in the Boise National Forest’s Lowman Ranger District. No reservations. First come, first served.

45. Lowman Dispersed

Address
Lowman Ranger District, Lowman, ID
Lowman, Idaho
GPS: 44.118156, -115.366037
Elevation: 4436′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

The road in is Dirt and <1 miles from a paved road. Lowman Idaho dispersed campsites open year round. There are 30 or more Idaho boondocking camp sites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Lowman Dispersed. Numerous dispersed sites along Idaho state Route 21 between Lowman and Grandjean. Camping allowed in identified sites only. Sites are marked with signs, but are primitive with no facilities. Most are accessible by trailer, and are close to the S. Fork Payette River in open forest.

46. Stolle Meadows

Address
Cascade, Idaho
GPS: 44.65573, -115.679911
Elevation: 5285′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

The road in is Gravel. There are 1-5 Idaho boondocking camp sites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet.

47. Free Central Idaho Boondocking Locations -Black Lake

Address
Black Lake Road
Council, Idaho
GPS: 45.189571, -116.561507
Elevation: 7234′

Management: Public – Forest Service

Black Lake is open Jun-Sep. This Black Lake Campground is a rustic facility with only 4 Idaho dispersed campsites for tents. Located on the edge of Black Lake and adjacent to the Hells Canyon Wilderness, the site is popular for visitors wanting an truly ‘off-the-beaten-path’ recreational experience. The access road to the campground is steep and rough, and is not recommended for RVs, trailers or low clearance vehicles.

48. Rapid Creek

Address
Rapid Creek Road
McCall, Idaho
GPS: 44.790114, -115.931764
Elevation: 5541′

Management: Public – Forest Service

Rapid Creek is open Jul-Sep. Free Idaho dispersed campsites in the Payette National Forest’s McCall Ranger District. Reservations are not accepted at this campsite.

49. Herrick Reservoir Access

Address
10356-10390 Skunk Creek Road
Cascade, Idaho
GPS: 44.37079, -115.988323
Elevation: 4875′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Unofficial)

The road in is Paved. You may stay 14 days in Idaho dispersed campsites at Herrick Reservoir Access. Good spots to camp . no services old outhouse wouldn’t go near but good fishing . no one there but us.

50. Tripod Reservoir Access

Address
Unnamed Road
Cascade, Idaho
GPS: 44.290104, -116.099418
Elevation: 4984′

Management: Public – State Park

Free Idaho dispersed campsites. First come -> First Camped. Reservations not accepted. Road in is much longer than description and uphill to height of land and then (I guess) downhill to the reservoir. We stopped and camped at height of land. Road was rutted and I wouldn’t suggest going during or after a rain, looks like a lot of deep tires tracks. Absolutely no cell signal. Would rsther pay the $10 and camp at the small campground on the west side of 55 just before the forest service Road to the reservoir.

51. Justrite Campground

Address
Weiser, Idaho
GPS: 44.540722, -116.953239
Elevation: 4252′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

Forest Service Campround – Free Idaho dispersed campsites in the Forest Service. First come -> first camped. No reservations are accepted.

52. Weiser Sand Dunes OHV

Address
Olds Ferry Road
Weiser, Idaho
GPS: 44.297607, -117.208359
Elevation: 2162′

Management: Public – Bureau of Land Management

Idaho dispersed campsites in the Bureau of Land Management: Four Rivers District. First come -> first camped. No reservations are accepted.

53. Kirkwood Ranch

Address
Unnamed Road
Riggins, Idaho
GPS: 45.567866, -116.497266
Elevation: 1227′

Management: Public – Forest Service

The Kirkwood Historic Ranch is an area rich in river history from early Native American occupation to pioneer ranching life. This very popular Idaho dispersed campsites are accessible by boat via the Snake River, or by hiking the Snake River National Recreation Trail which begins at Pittsburg Landing, approximately 6 miles down river. The historic ranch offers a taste of canyon life in the 1930s with the original ranch house, bunk houses and other out-buildings. As in the past, the cool green lawn and nearby stream offer summer time visitors a welcome rest.

54. Papoose

Address
National Forest Development Road 517
Riggins, Idaho
GPS: 45.404566, -116.396817
Elevation: 3747′

Management: Public – Forest Service

The maximum RV length at Papoose is 18 feet. Idaho dispersed campsites are located within the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest’s Salmon River Ranger District.

55. Short’s Bar

Address
Salmon River Road (FR1614)
Riggins, Idaho
GPS: 45.41394, -116.302038
Elevation: 1726′

Management: (Official)

Short’s Bar is open year-round. You may stay 14 days at Short’s Bar. Follow Big Salmon Road (NF-1614) about a mile along the river. The FREE Idaho dispersed campsites will be on your left and you can park right along side the river. Great spot! Free! Elk ranch on the other side of the road, so you’ll hear them bugle all day

56. Island Bar

Address
National Forest Development Road 1614
Riggins, Idaho
GPS: 45.417972, -116.261129
Elevation: 1749′

Management: Public – Bureau of Land Management

Island Bar is open all year. Idaho dispersed campsites are located within the Bureau of Land Management: Cottonwood District.

57. Ruby Meadow TH

Address
National Forest Development Road 21
McCall, Idaho
GPS: 45.255396, -115.898464
Elevation: 6037′

Management: Public – Forest Service

Free Idaho dispersed campsites in the Payette National Forest’s McCall Ranger District. This campsite does not use a reservation system. First come, first served.

58. Corduroy

Address
National Forest Development Road 246
McCall, Idaho
GPS: 45.339633, -115.947442
Elevation: 6401′

Management: Public – Forest Service

Idaho dispersed campsites are located within the Payette National Forest’s McCall Ranger District.

59. Burgdorf Site 1

Address
McCall, Idaho
GPS: 45.304498, -115.933329
Elevation: 6276′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

The road in is Gravel and 4 miles from a paved road. Burgdorf Site1 is open May through October. There are 6-15 Idaho boondocking camp sites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 18 at Burgdorf Site1. Great horse camp. I’ve only seen horses there once.

60. Little Payette Lake

Address
1981 Lick Creek Road
McCall, Idaho
GPS: 44.9306, -116.03397
Elevation: 5135′

Management: Public – State Park

Several nice Idaho dispersed campsites along both sides of road. No facilities. Tread lightly and pack all trash. There is cell signal here, Verison 3 bars.

61. Black Lee

Address
Lick Creek Road
McCall, Idaho
GPS: 44.985344, -115.954671
Elevation: 5650′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

The road in is Gravel and 8-10 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 Idaho boondocking camp sites at this location. This campsite is located within the Payette National Forest’s McCall Ranger District.

62. Free Central Idaho Boondocking Locations -33 Mile

Address
Lick Creek Road
McCall, Idaho
GPS: 45.023238, -115.92864
Elevation: 6516′

Management: Public – Forest Service

Free Idaho dispersed campsites in the Payette National Forest’s McCall Ranger District. First come -> first camped. No reservations are accepted.

63. Granite Lake Camping Area

Address
McCall, Idaho
GPS: 45.102527, -116.084101
Elevation: 6764′

Management: Public – Forest Service

This is a rustic dispersed campground with 7 Idaho dispersed campsites located next to Granite Lake. Several trails leave from this camping area. Sites have tables and fire rings and there is one restroom. The road to the site is not suitable for large RVs. Four-wheel drive is recommended to access Granite Lake. Most suited for tent camping.

64. Goose Lake

Address
Hazard Lake Road
New Meadows, Idaho
GPS: 45.0856, -116.166528
Elevation: 6375′

Management: Public – Forest Service

Goose Lake is open Jul-Sep. The maximum RV length at Goose Lake is 18 feet. Free Idaho dispersed campsites in the Payette National Forest’s New Meadows Ranger District. No reservations. First come, first served.

65. Lost Valley Reservoir

Address
Council, Idaho
GPS: 44.965236, -116.452032
Elevation: 4787′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

Lots of free Idaho dispersed campsites around lake shore. Roads leading to the lake a great for campers and trailers with boats. Roads leading down to the campsites near lake shore are rough and not maintained. No large RVs recommended. The area is quite and most times spots are available. There are no facilities for most of the primitive campsites.

Free Idaho Boondocking Camp Sites on a Budget

Remember that when you go camping for free, these are typically available first come, first serve and they usually have very limited or no amenities like water, picnic tables, flush toilets, etc. But if you’re willing to “rough” it & just bring the supplies you need ahead of time, you can find some great, out of the way spots & make some amazing family memories on a budget.

Also, here in the Northwest, the most popular time for camping is of course in the summertime, but many locations will open up their sites with free or reduced rates once the busy season has passed, so those are great options as well to check out in the fall or spring when they still might have some beautiful Idaho camping weather.

Discounts for Central Idaho Camping Spots: Free or Reduced Camping Fees in Idaho State Parks

If you are a resident of Idaho, you can pay $10 to have day-use access to all 30 of Idaho State Parks with the Idaho State Passport, as well as nightly discounts on camping. If you are not a resident of Idaho but think you will be camping there fairly often, you can purchase a Motor Vehicle Entrance Fee (MVEF) sticker for out of state residents for $40 for the year, too, which will provide access to all the state parks & discounts on camping.

Idaho State Parks offer a discounted, reduced or waived camping fees for:

★ Disabled Veterans – find all the information here on how that works
★ Limited Income – camp for $4 per night if you qualify based on limited income.
★ Reservation fees are waived for Idaho residents who have current, valid Idaho RV registration stickers
★ Seniors get 50% off at select campgrounds.

Free or Reduced Rates for Campground Hosts

If you have more flexibility in your schedule or if you are retired, homeschooling, etc – being a campground host might be an option for you. Typically you can get free (or reduced in some cases) rates to camp in exchange for being available to help & answer questions for the campers. The minimum stay is typically one month, though, but this might be a fun option for the summertime if you plan ahead.

You can find available campgrounds that need hosts by searching this website for National Parks & Forests all around the country. At the time of this post, I found over 10 locations that needed hosts, this list is constantly changing, so definitely check that site out to see if there’s an option that will work for you. I would think you’d need to schedule this out far in advance though.

Coeur d’Alene Lake and St. Joe River Area Central Idaho RV Parking

Coeur d’Alene Lake, is a natural dam-controlled lake in North Idaho, located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. At its northern end is the city of Coeur d’Alene. It spans 25 miles in length and ranges from 1 to 3 miles wide with over 109 miles of shoreline.

The Idaho Panhandle National Forests’ St. Joe River area contains the majority of what was once the St. Joe National Forest and is now St. Joe Ranger District.

Blue-ribbon cutthroat trout streams, wild and scenic rivers, and extensive road-less and primeval landscapes characterize this region. Miles of routes great for Central Idaho hiking, back-country horseback riding, mountain biking, and ATV riding. The elk herds in the St. Joe are well-known throughout the country.

The lovely wild & scenic St. Joe River runs alongside many of the free Central Idaho boondocking campgrounds. The rails-to-trails mountain biking route, Route of the Hiawatha, travels through tunnels and across trestles. View logging artifacts from the early twentieth century at Marble Creek.

Spend some time at one of the backcountry cabins or lookouts, or simply drive the St. Joe River route and marvel at the grandeur of the rivers, mountains, vegetation, and wildlife.

Central Idaho Boondocking Locations
Big Creek Trails
Camp 3 Campground
Cedar Creek Campground
Conrad Crossing Campground
Emerald Creek Campground
Fly Flat Campground
Line Creek Stock Camp
Mammoth Springs Campground
Packsaddle Campground
Shadowy St. Joe Campground
Spruce Tree Campground
St. Joe Wild & Scenic River
Telichpah Campground
Tin Can Flat Campground
Turner Flat Campground

Central Idaho RV Parking & Camping
Camp 3 Campground
Cedar Creek Campground
Conrad Crossing Campground
Emerald Creek Campground
Fly Flat Campground
Mammoth Springs Campground
Shadowy St. Joe Campground
Spruce Tree Campground
Telichpah Campground
Tin Can Flat Campground
Turner Flat Campground

Central Idaho Dispersed Camping
Lines Creek Trail Picnic Area
Mallard Larkins Pioneer Area Trails

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