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Established Camping

Bear Valley

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Bear Valley, near Lowman, Idaho, is a peaceful campground that offers a serene escape for those looking to unwind in nature. With a backdrop of stunning scenery and the soothing sounds of the nearby river, it’s an ideal place to kick back and enjoy the great outdoors.

The campground features basic amenities like clean pit toilets and access to drinking water, though you’ll need to bring your own firewood and trash bags since there’s no trash service. Campers have noted that the sites are spacious, making it easy for families or groups to set up comfortably. One visitor mentioned, “Our spot was clean and big, plenty of room for two families to camp.”

For those who enjoy water activities, Bear Valley is a great spot for river boating and exploring Bear Valley Creek. Just be prepared for some challenges with downed trees in the creek, as one reviewer pointed out. Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, but a good repellent can help keep them at bay.

The campground is open from mid-June to the end of September, making it a perfect summer getaway. Whether you’re looking to relax by the campfire or venture out for some boating, Bear Valley provides a tranquil setting to enjoy the beauty of Idaho’s wilderness.

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Location

Bear Valley is located in Idaho

Detail location of campground

Directions

In Stanley, ID, at the intersection of State Rts. 75 and 21, take Rt. 21 west 21.4 miles to Bruce Meadows and Forest Rt. 579 sign. Turn right at sign onto Rt. 579 (gravel) and go 12.4 miles to campground sign. Turn right at sign into campground.

Coordinates

44.41100066 N
115.3700004 W

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Connectivity

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Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
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Drive Time

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Access

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Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets

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Reviews

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4 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 19, 2023

Nice quiet area!

Decent traffic now and then but overall nice quiet area on a peaceful part of the river!

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Bear Valley by Zach P., August 19, 2023
  • Review photo of Bear Valley by Zach P., August 19, 2023
Reviewed Jul. 8, 2018

Beautiful spot

We went Memorial weekend. We ended up being the only ones camping there, it was nice and secluded. The bathrooms hadn't been unlocked for the season yet. There was plenty of fallen logs/branches for firewood. Our spot was clean and big, plenty of room for two families to camp and we both parked at the same site. Lots of mosquitoes but they were manageable with repellent. I highly recommend it and we will go back.

  • Review photo of Bear Valley by Nick B., July 8, 2018
  • Review photo of Bear Valley by Nick B., July 8, 2018
  • Review photo of Bear Valley by Nick B., July 8, 2018
Reviewed Aug. 30, 2016

Stunning

Had a wonderful Memorial Day weekend. It was quiet n few neighbors. Still snow on the ground but warm enough to enjoy. It it's not burned up from the fire, we will be going back.

  • Review photo of Bear Valley by Jackie S., August 30, 2016
Reviewed Jul. 16, 2016

Great spot for river boaters

We spent a weekend here and took our boats so we could play in Bear Valley Creek. This campground was full on the weekend we went. The pit toilet was clean and stocked with toilet paper although it is a pit toilet. Plenty of firewood for the fire. The creek had downed trees and was a challenge to navigate. Be prepared to pack out everything as there is no trash service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do Bear Valley Campground in Idaho look like?

Bear Valley Campground offers a secluded, natural setting in the Idaho wilderness. The campground sits alongside Bear Valley Creek with peaceful riverside spots. Sites are spacious and clean, providing ample room for multiple tents and vehicles. The surrounding area features typical Idaho mountain terrain with plenty of trees providing shade and natural beauty. The campground maintains a rustic feel with minimal development, perfect for those seeking a more authentic outdoor experience away from crowds.

What facilities and amenities are available at Bear Valley Campground in Idaho?

Bear Valley Campground features basic primitive camping amenities. The site offers pit toilets that are typically clean and stocked with toilet paper during the main camping season. Each campsite comes with a fire ring, and there's generally plenty of fallen logs and branches in the area that can be collected for firewood. The campground has spacious sites that can accommodate multiple families camping together with room for parking vehicles. Note that facilities are seasonal - bathroom facilities may be locked during early season visits (like Memorial Day weekend), so come prepared.

Are there good fishing spots near Bear Valley Campground in Idaho?

Yes, Bear Valley Creek runs right by the campground and offers good fishing opportunities. The creek contains some downed trees which creates interesting fishing challenges and potentially good habitat for fish. Beyond the immediate creek, the greater Bear Valley area has several streams and waterways that attract anglers. The peaceful sections of the river near the campground provide nice fishing spots where you can enjoy the quiet natural surroundings while trying your luck. Be prepared for typical mountain stream fishing conditions.

How do I get to Bear Valley Campground from Stanley, Idaho?

From Stanley, Idaho, take Highway 21 north for approximately 20 miles, then turn onto the Forest Service road that leads to Bear Valley. Follow signs for Bear Valley Campground as you continue along this route. The roads are typically accessible for most vehicles during summer months, though early season visits might encounter some snow. The drive offers beautiful mountain scenery as you travel from Stanley into the more remote Bear Valley area. It's advisable to bring a detailed map or have directions downloaded before traveling as cell service can be limited in this region.