Dispersed Camping in Caribou-Targhee National Forest and Curlew National Grassland
What is Dispersed Camping?
Dispersed camping is a primitive, immersive way to experience the diverse landscapes of Caribou-Targhee National Forest and Curlew National Grassland. Unlike developed campgrounds, it involves setting up camp outside designated sites, offering solitude and a deeper connection to nature. With no amenities like water, restrooms, or trash services, campers must follow Leave No Trace principles, pack out all waste, and fully extinguish campfires to preserve these pristine environments.
Where Can You Disperse Camp?
- Caribou-Targhee National Forest: Spanning over 3 million acres across Idaho, Wyoming, and Utah, dispersed camping is permitted in many areas unless restricted by specific regulations or authorized uses. Campsites must be at least 100 feet from streams or water sources to protect water quality, with a 14-day stay limit in one spot within a 28-day period. After 14 days, campers must relocate at least 5 road miles to another dispersed area. Some districts, like Palisades, may have a 5-day limit.
- Curlew National Grassland: Located in Oneida and Power Counties, Idaho, this 47,790-acre grassland allows dispersed camping in its open, rolling prairie landscape unless otherwise posted. A 14-day stay limit applies, and sites must be at least 100 feet from water sources. Use existing disturbed areas to avoid creating new impacts.
Types of Dispersed Camping
- Tent Camping: Ideal for backpackers, tent camping in the forest’s rugged mountains or the grassland’s open prairies lets you choose scenic, level sites. Use previously impacted areas to minimize environmental damage.
- RV Camping: RVs are welcome in accessible dispersed areas of the forest and grassland, provided roads and sites can accommodate your vehicle. No hookups or dump stations are available, so RVs must be self-contained, and graywater must be disposed of at designated dump stations.
- Car Camping: Perfect for quick trips, car camping involves setting up near your vehicle along forest roads or in open grassland areas. Use existing pullouts or flat, disturbed sites for easy gear access without creating new impacts.
Finding the Best Dispersed Camping Locations
To find the best dispersed camping spots, first decide which district of Caribou-Targhee National Forest or Curlew National Grassland you want to stay in. Then, contact the corresponding ranger district office for up-to-date information on accessible areas, road conditions, fire restrictions, and specific regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Below are the contact numbers for all seven ranger districts:
- Ashton/Island Park Ranger District: (208) 652-7442
- Dubois Ranger District: (208) 374-5422
- Montpelier Ranger District: (208) 847-0375
- Palisades Ranger District: (208) 523-1412
- Soda Springs Ranger District: (208) 547-4356
- Teton Basin Ranger District: (208) 354-2312
- Westside Ranger District and Curlew National Grassland: (208) 677-4443
Plan Your Adventure
Dispersed camping in Caribou-Targhee National Forest and Curlew National Grassland offers unmatched freedom to explore mountains, rivers, and prairies. Bring all necessary supplies, including water, and be prepared for variable weather and wildlife. Choose your district, call the ranger office for the latest details, and enjoy a low-impact adventure in these stunning public lands!
Dispersed Camping Rules & Tips in National Forests
- Use only dead and down wood found on the ground. Never cut branches from live trees.
- Bring your own firewood if local supply is limited. Transporting firewood from far away can spread invasive species.
- Keep campfires small and never leave them unattended.
- Put fires DEAD OUT before leaving—cold to the touch.
- Use a portable toilet or dig a cat hole 6–8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites.
- Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products—don’t burn them in your campfire.
- Camp at least 200 feet away from lakes, rivers, and streams to protect water quality.
- Stay at least ½ mile from developed campgrounds and trailheads.
- Avoid fragile meadows and soft soils—camp on durable surfaces like gravel, rock, or dry grass.
- Use existing campsites where possible to limit your impact.
- Bring bear spray and know how to use it—it could save your life.
- Store all food, trash, and scented items in bear-proof containers or hang them at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from tree trunks.
- Never store food or eat in your tent. Odors can attract bears even after the food is gone.
- Bears may be active early in the morning and at dusk—plan meals and hikes accordingly.
- Pack out everything you pack in, including trash, food scraps, and broken gear.
- Leave the area better than you found it—scatter unused fire rings and cover any cat holes.
- Respect wildlife. Keep pets under control and never approach or feed animals.
- Bring a map—cell service is not guaranteed.
- Let someone know your plans and estimated return time.
- Use low-impact lighting and keep noise to a minimum to preserve the wilderness experience for others.