Established Camping
Bayhorse Recreation Site
Bayhorse Recreation Site, near Challis, Idaho, is a convenient campground that offers a laid-back atmosphere right next to the Salmon River. With sites that provide easy access to the water, it’s a great choice for those looking to unwind and enjoy some fishing or simply relax by the riverbank.
This campground features picnic tables and fire pits, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Visitors have noted the added bonus of a grill, making it easy to whip up a meal after a day of exploring. As one camper mentioned, “Beautiful area right off of Highway 75 on the river,” highlighting the scenic views that surround the site.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Bayhorse is a gateway to various activities, including hiking and boating. The nearby boat ramp makes it easy to launch your kayak or canoe, while the surrounding area offers trails for those looking to stretch their legs. Campers have enjoyed the peaceful setting, with one reviewer noting, “Great place to put in on the Salmon River, access to hiking, etc.”
While it’s not a destination campground, it serves well for a quick overnight stay or a stop along your travels. Just keep in mind that it’s close to the highway, so you might hear some traffic, but the natural beauty and river access make it worth it.
Description
Bureau of Land Management
Salmon River
Bayhorse Campground is at 5400-foot elevation and is ten miles south of Challis on Highway 75. Named for a historic mining district, Bayhorse Campground has 11 campsites along the Salmon River offering plentiful fishing. Anglers come for the resident cutthroat and rainbow trout, steelhead and whitefish. Visitors can take the road west to Bayhorse Lake, which is near a number of historic mines. The entire area is rich in mining history, and this is a comfortable base camp for exploring the Land of the Yankee Fork. Amenities Include: 11 first come, first served campsites with picnic tables and fire rings, seasonal campground hosts, potable water, vault toilets, boat ramp and day use parking area, and plenty of hiking trails and interpretive sites to explore. There is limited cell service at this site. Electric and water hook-ups are not available.
Fee Info
Camping fee: $10/night. Campsites are first come, first served. Stay limit: 14 Days.
Location
Bayhorse Recreation Site is located in Idaho
Directions
Approximately 10 miles southwest of Challis, Idaho: travel south from Challis on Highway 93 for 2 miles, turn right onto Highway 75 and drive southwest for approximately 8 miles. The recreation site is on your right between the highway and the Salmon River.
Address
Challis Field Office
721 East Main Avenue, Suite 8
Challis, ID 83226
Coordinates
44.385555 N
114.260278 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 18 min from Idaho Falls
- 2 hrs 34 min from Pocatello
- 3 hrs 6 min from Twin Falls
- 3 hrs 51 min from Boise
