Dispersed camping near Idaho City, Idaho occurs predominantly within the Boise National Forest at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 feet. The region experiences cold winters with significant snowfall and warm summers with temperatures frequently reaching the 80s. Access to many camping areas requires travel on forest roads that vary from well-maintained gravel to rough dirt tracks requiring high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Water activities at Arrowrock Reservoir: The reservoir provides swimming and boating opportunities during summer months. "The water is clean and there is tons of beach area! Bring the kayaks and get paddling!" notes Brett P. about Arrowrock Reservoir Dispersed camping areas.
Hiking mountain trails: Several trails originate near campgrounds, ranging from easy creek-side walks to challenging summit climbs. Laura C. shares about camping near Arrowrock: "There is hiking right across the street. Mt Heinen which is a very strenuous hike. Its over 9 miles(up and back) and over a 3,000 ft gain so be prepared if you try to tackle this summit."
Hot springs soaking: Natural hot springs provide relaxation after hiking or exploring. At Pine Flats Campground, "A short hike for the smaller hot springs. You follow the same path to the better springs but it gets slightly difficult at the very end," according to Easton S.
Historic gold mining exploration: Visit preserved mining structures and learn about the area's gold rush history. Idaho City itself contains numerous historical buildings and an interpretive center documenting the 1860s gold rush that once made it the largest city in the Northwest.
What campers like
Creek access for cooling off: Many campgrounds offer direct access to streams for wading and fishing. At Mores Creek by Steamboat Gulch, campers appreciate "A variety of free and dispersed sites, most of them with rock campfire rings, near a nice shallow creek," according to Lee.
Privacy between sites: Grayback Gulch Campground offers well-spaced campsites away from highway noise. Kiwi S. notes, "Sites are well spaces apart. A quit spot."
Proximity to Idaho City amenities: Campers value the ability to quickly reach town for supplies or meals. Josh D. recommends RVers "fill up on water in Idaho City" when staying at Black Rock Campground, highlighting the convenience of town access.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained restrooms and grounds enhance the camping experience. At Grayback Gulch, Jeff M. reports, "No hookups, but the toilets are clean and there are two fresh water pumps. Fishing is available in nearby Moores Creek."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Some campgrounds require travel on rough forest roads. When visiting Edna Creek Campground, Mike E. notes there's a "Steep winding drive the last 10 miles. This campground is near the summit and about 5,000 ft so it can get cool at night even in summer."
Seasonal access limitations: Most campgrounds operate from May through September, closing during winter months. According to Keith H., Macks Creek Park has an "Open Season 15 May to 15 September. Advance reservations are requires and cannot be made on site."
Variable cell service: Connectivity ranges from good to nonexistent depending on location. Josh D. reports "No cell service on T Mobile" at Black Rock Campground, while Cam T. found "2 bars of Verizon good enough to stream on" at Grayback Gulch.
Fire restrictions: Check current fire regulations before your trip. During high fire danger periods, restrictions may prohibit open flames entirely. Some campgrounds have shallow fire rings due to past fire activity.
Tips for camping with families
Look for shallow creek access: Younger children enjoy safe wading opportunities. At Black Rock Campground, Darlan B. says, "We love going here because it is usually clean and has fishing and swimming close by and the water is shallow enough for all of us to enjoy."
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds experience ATV traffic or highway noise that might affect light sleepers. Jeff M. notes about Grayback Campground, "There may be ATV traffic as it's a popular location for families."
Pack for temperature changes: Even summer nights can be cold at higher elevations. Mike E. reminds campers that Edna Creek Campground "is near the summit and about 5,000 ft so it can get cool at night even in summer."
Plan for amenities: Many dispersed sites lack toilets and potable water, while established campgrounds typically provide vault toilets. Will M. appreciated that at Grayback Gulch, "Clean bathrooms. We visited Idaho City, Placerville, Centerville, and Pioneerville."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger trailers or motorhomes. At Pine Flats, Phillip C. warns, "Made the reservation for 2 nights off the government site. I must say they are true to length. So true I'm sure I would not fit, but after trying 3 times to make the turn backing in we left for better camping. Site 22 is a tough get."
Water availability planning: Most campgrounds lack hookups, requiring self-containment. Rick G. shares about Macks Creek Park: "Stayed 3 nights to run errands and visit the Boise area. Out of town, but nice and secluded. We enjoyed the clear skies at night for some great star gazing."
Road access considerations: Some forest roads present challenges for towed RVs. Aaron B. notes about Pine Flats, "Awesome place to get away for a few nights. Campsites in the middle have plenty of space, outer circle spots might have a bit less room, especially if by the river."
Consider generator restrictions: Check campground rules regarding generator use. Lynn R. observed at Black Rock Campground, "This is a nice campground, our last visit I think everyone had a generator running."
