Established Camping
Baumgartner Campground
Baumgartner Campground, near Fairfield, Idaho, is a fantastic place for those looking to unwind in nature. With its proximity to the stunning Sawtooth National Forest, you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering pines and the soothing sounds of the nearby river.
This campground is known for its hot springs, which many visitors rave about as a perfect way to relax after a day of exploring. The sites are spacious, and even when the campground is busy, you can still find a sense of seclusion. One camper noted, “The vault toilets were clean, and though the campground was nearly full, we still felt secluded in our site.”
If you’re into fishing or just want to soak up some sun, you’re in luck. The South Fork Boise River is right next door, offering opportunities for both. Plus, there’s a mix of paid and free camping options, making it accessible for different budgets. As one happy camper shared, “There’s so much to do here! You’re close to a lake, you can fish the river, and there’s even a town close by if you forgot any essentials!”
While the campground doesn’t have showers or electric hookups, it does allow fires in approved spots, so you can enjoy a cozy evening under the stars. Just remember to keep your food and drinks secure, as the local wildlife is known to be curious. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned camper, Baumgartner Campground offers a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of outdoor fun.
Description
US Forest Service
Sawtooth National Forest
Overview
Baumgartner Campground is situated alongside the South Fork Boise River, 11 miles from Featherville, Idaho. The area offers excellent fishing, hiking and off-road vehicle riding opportunities. Baumgartner Hot Springs is located within the campground, where visitors can enjoy soaking in the pool while admiring the scenic, natural setting.
Recreation
The campground's main draw is Baumgartner Hot Springs. The 101-degree water is piped into a large concrete soaking pool. The pool is open during daylight hours and is drained and refilled daily. The pool is pressure washed Tuesday mornings and will not open until around noon. The South Fork Boise River provides great fishing for wild and stocked rainbow trout. Younger campers love splashing in the cool mountain waters. An accessible path leads to a bench overlooking the swimming/fishing hole on thenorth end of the campground. The John Baumgartner Gravesite is a short walk from the hot springs. A 1/4-mile interpretive nature trail begins at the hot springs and meanders up the hill through the forest. Kelley Creek/Iron Mountain, Virginia Gulch, Willow Creek, Van Gulch and Big Water Trails all begin in the area. Ponderosa Trail Learner's Loop is located approximately 1 mile to the west of the campground and offers beginner level trails for young ATV and off-road motorcycle riders. ATVs, UTVs and off-road motorcycles cannot be ridden within the campground. You may trailer them in and out of the campground but the trailer must fit within your camping spur.
Facilities
The campground offers single and double-family sites, as well as one quad site and one large group site (Site 100), all with picnic tables, fire rings and utility tables. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided. Roads and parking spurs within the main campground are paved. Site 100 is not paved.
Natural Features
The campground is nestled beneath towering ponderosa pines at an elevation of 5,200 feet. The gentle South Fork Boise River runs along the site, offering beautiful scenery and recreation. A variety of wildlife is commonly seen in and around the campground, including deer and moose.
Nearby Attractions
Numerous hiking, biking, horseback and off-road vehicle trails crisscross the surrounding area. Kelley Creek Flats Recreation Area is adjacent with additional designated dispersed site camping and livestock corrals near Kelley Creek. The historic Iron Mountain Lookout is located to the south of the campground. It is approximately a 12 mile one-way trip along the Kelley Creek trail which is open to vehicles 50" or less in width.
Location
Baumgartner Campground is located in Idaho
Directions
Take I-84 to Exit 95. Go east on State Highway 20 to mile marker 127.5. Turn north and follow signs to Featherville. Once at Featherville, head east on Forest Road 227 for 11 miles on dirt road. At Baumgartner Campground sign, turn right and cross the bridge to the campground, on the left hand side.
Address
102 First Street East
Fairfield, ID 83327
Coordinates
43.6125 N
115.0802778 W
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 30 min from Boise
- 2 hrs 37 min from Twin Falls
- 3 hrs 47 min from Idaho Falls
- 3 hrs 55 min from Pocatello
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
