South Baldy

Open — This dispersed camping area is accessible year-round, though winter access may be limited by snow. No fees or reservations required.

About

South Baldy is a dispersed camping area in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, located in Pend Oreille County, Washington. The site takes its name from the nearby South Baldy lookout tower, a 41-foot treated timber tower built in 1960 that is still periodically staffed during fire seasons. The area is accessed via Kings Lake Road from Usk, heading east across the Pend Oreille River. This remote camping area sits in the forested terrain near the South Baldy peak, which reaches an elevation of approximately 5,974 feet. The surrounding national forest offers opportunities for exploring the Selkirk and Cabinet mountain ranges, with dispersed camping allowed throughout much of the forest. As a dispersed camping area, visitors should expect primitive conditions with no developed facilities. Campers must practice Leave No Trace principles and be self-sufficient with water, waste disposal, and other necessities.

Directions

From Usk, cross the bridge over the Pend Oreille River on the east edge of town and follow Kings Lake Road (County Road 3389) toward the South Baldy area. Access is via forest roads in the vicinity of the South Baldy lookout tower.

Nearby Campgrounds