Coming from California, there are a lot of differences between the Golden State and the Gem State. Camping is one of them. Maybe it is because I never had the opportunity to go camping in undeveloped land, except deep in the Rockies, that undeveloped camping on public land is a foreign concept. I couldn’t wait to tell my parents that you could literally go into the forest and camp wherever you want.

This guide is designed to help you know some of the Do’s and the Dont’s when it comes to camping on public land.

Now the question is where to go. Check out Moody Meadows or near Harriman state park!

This information was taken from the BLM & Forest Service Websites. We also contacted various Forest Service Rangers for further information.

What is Dispersed Camping?

Dispersed camping is the experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and campers. It feels primitive, and you can gain greater peace and solitude. The term “Dispersed Camping” comes from camping anywhere outside of a designated campground. There are no services while dispersed camping. No tables, fire pits, trash removal, and facilities. However, some popular dispersed campgrounds may have toilets.

You can generally camp nearby roads in national forests.

Rules for Undeveloped Camping on Public Land (Dispersed Camping)

Update 7/24/2017 – Unfortunately, rules are different between BLM Land and between national forests. Updated information is below:

Caribou-Targhee National Forest Specific Rules – Call (208) 557-5900

  • Camping is free
  • Camping must be 300 feet from a road
  • Currently, there are no fire restrictions
  • You must be 1/2 mile from any developed campgrounds

BLM Specific Rules 

  • Camping is free
  • 14 day stay limit
  • No pit toilets at sites
  • Bring water
  • Stay on Designated routes and trails
  • The South Fork and Henry’s Fork of the Snake River corridors are subject to 5-day camp limit and require a fire pan and toilet system.

Sawtooth National Forest Specific Rules – Call (208) 737-3200

General Rules (may or may not apply to different areas)

  • Dispersed camping is free
  • No pit toilets at sites
  • Bring water
  • Stay on designated routes and trails
  • Follow Leave No Trace guidelines

Fire Prevention

  1. Keep your vehicle maintained, mufflers secure, tires inspected and safety chains crossed and off the ground. One spark from dragging metal can cause a wildfire.
  2. Remember to extinguish your campfire every time you leave camp. Drown your fire with water, stir and feel it to ensure it is cold.
  3. Don’t drive or park on dry grass! Vehicle exhaust systems can reach up to 1,000 degrees and can easily start a wildfire in tall dry grasses.
  4. Possession and discharge of fireworks are prohibited on public lands.
  5. For wildfire and fire restriction information check www.idahofireinfo.com and follow @BLMidahofire on Twitter.

Vehicle Travel

  • Drive on established roads only.
  • Be alert to wildlife on roadways, especially at dusk and at night
  • GPS is not always reliable, cell phone service can be spotty

Leave No Trace

  • Plan ahead and prepare
  • Travel and camp on durable spaces
  • Dispose of waste properly – Know where your dump stations are: http://bit.ly/2sKavNm
  • Leave what you find
  • Minimize campfire impacts
  • Respect wildlife
  • Be considerate of other visitors
  • Pack it in. Pack it out.

That’s pretty much it. Rules vary for each location. Get out there and enjoy the beautiful idaho country.

Local Guide