Big Bayhorse, near Challis, Idaho, is a picturesque campground that offers a serene escape surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. With its beautiful lake and ample opportunities for fishing, it’s a favorite spot for families and friends looking to unwind in nature.

The campground features clean vault toilets and picnic tables, making it a comfortable place to set up camp. Visitors have noted the peaceful atmosphere, especially at night when the sky lights up with a clear view of the Milky Way. One camper shared, “Fishing was perfect for young boys that need to catch something frequently,” highlighting the lake's abundance of trout.

Getting to Big Bayhorse involves navigating a winding, rocky road, but many have found the journey worthwhile. Just be sure to bring your own water and pack out your trash, as amenities are limited. If you’re up for a little adventure, don’t miss the nearby Bayhorse State Park Ghost Town, which offers a glimpse into the area's mining history. Whether you're casting a line or simply soaking in the views, Big Bayhorse is a great spot to reconnect with the outdoors.

A beautiful high mountain lake is the setting for this out-of-the-way campground. Plenty of fishing in lakes and streams. Good hiking and ATV trail access. Campsite facilities include picnic tables and fire rings with cooking grills. Within the campground, there are vault toilets and a day-use picnic area. On Bayhorse Lake campers will find a boat launch and two boat docks for use by non-motorized watercraft. 


This dirt road is narrow and steep and while trailers are allowed, caution is advised; best fit for trailers and motorhomes less than 32 feet long. No drinking water is on-site, and please pack out your trash.



Big Bayhorse

Are you in need of a campground near Clayton, ID? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Idaho camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Clayton, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Clayton

The Best Camping Near Clayton, Idaho

No overnight camping near the dock but the sites when you first drive in are excellent too. Beautiful lake with fishing. Great spot for a day trip too.

Beautiful Alpine Lake

We only made it partially up the steep narrow road before our truck started to over heat.

Road to campsite difficult

Up a long, windy, rocky, dirt road 8 miles you will find a sweet little lake (Big Bayhorse Lake) and a small campground. Try and get a site at the top, even tho it puts you closer to the vault toilet. The top sites are the most level. But if you don’t plan on pitching a tent, the lower sites are pull thru and you almost get a view of the lake. Bring your own water and plan on packing out your trash. The forest service comes up once a week or so to clean the bathrooms. On your way up be sure to stop at the Bayhorse State Park Ghosttown. Really well preserved and they are doing more work to continue to preserve the old mining town. 


Quiet and pretty

This place was recommended by our camp host in lower Idaho.  We made the drive up in our F-350 diesel and it felt sketchy in a few places. Took about 45 min.  When we got to the top and saw others had towed their trailers up we were in shock.  On a Thursday evening at 8:30 pm there was one site left… we were shocked how many were there.  By Friday morning several had left and we learned a large wedding had taken place..  Saturday morning even fewer campers were there.  Easily could find a spot on a weekend (unless a random wedding is happening!)
Very quiet and the sky view at night was amazing… clear view of the Milky Way!
Fishing was perfect for young boys that need to catch something frequently to keep them engaged.  Caught 6 trout in the first hour.  Wish we had our kayaks because the docks filled fast.

No one seemed cautious of bears, and we didn’t see signs but were told they have been seen before.  We left early only because we didn’t have enough water.  Bring plenty for drinking and other daily uses!

Will definitely be coming back!

Worth the drive!

This place is absolutely gorgeous.  The road can be a bit sketchy in spots but all in all not completely difficult.  I did it with my Tacoma pulling a tiny camper but when I arrived at the lake, there were much larger vehicles than mine already there.  

The vault bathrooms were clean, and I met one of the rangers while I was there who was super friendly.  

This area is open range, and there are cattle roaming the grassland next to the lake.  Watch your step on the paths around the site.   Haha.  



Photos of Big Bayhorse

Real photos from real campers