Fishing enthusiasts will find access to the headwaters of the Salmon River at this Forest Service campground located four miles off Highway 75. Chemeketan Campground operates seasonally from early June through early September, accommodating both individual campers and groups with sites that range from open meadow locations to tree-covered spots suitable for hammocks.
The campground sits near the start of the Idaho Centennial Trail, with a trailhead just a short walk from the sites. Each site includes a picnic table and fire pit with built-in grill grates. Annie C. noted the evening wildlife activity: "In the evening the mule deer and pronghorn come down to the meadow to graze and the river to drink." The access road generates considerable dust, and water is not available on-site, requiring campers to pack their own supply or filter from nearby sources.
Sites accommodate RVs up to 30 feet, though the dusty four-mile access road may deter some larger rigs. The campground accepts reservations and operates on a fee system, with individual sites available alongside the primary group camping areas. For campers exploring the broader region, campsites near Sawtooth National Forest provide additional options throughout the area. Those seeking a different experience might consider Prairie Campground, located southeast with different amenities and access conditions.
Description
Overview
Chemeketan Campground sits near the headwaters of the Salmon River, at the foot of the Sawtooth Mountain Range.
Recreation
This site is part of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, where outdoor activities abound. The Salmon River offers excellent fishing for rainbow trout, westslope cutthroat trout and occasional hybrid cutbows and bull trout. The Idaho Centennial Trail can be easily accessed nearby. Alturas, Perkins, Pettit and Yellowbelly Lakes are nearby, with fishing, canoeing and hiking.
Facilities
This campground is reached via dirt road, however visitors must ford a stream before reaching the site. Trucks, RVs and cars with higher clearance should have no trouble crossing the stream. The campground offers one group site than can accommodate up to 150 people. If it is not reserved, it is available as a group site or individual sites on a first come, first served basis. Vault toilets, tables and grills are provided.
Natural Features
Chemeketan is a secluded, peaceful campground situated among lodgepole pines, which provide partial shade. Rugged peaks of the Sawtooth Range surround the area and the Salmon River flows at the campground's edge. Temperatures are cool, with an average summer high of 78 degrees and a low of 40 degrees.
Nearby Attractions
The Sawtooth National Recreation Area offers a myriad of excellent hiking and biking opportunities, and an estimated 750 miles of trails crisscross the valley and surrounding mountains. Popular area events include an Arts and Crafts Fair in July, and Wagon Days, Salmon Festival, Quilt Fair and Fireman's Ball in September.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsChemeketan Campground is located in Idaho near Atlanta
Directions
From Stanley, Idaho, take Highway 75 south. Turn southwest off highway onto a dirt road located between mile markers 163 and 162. The campground is located 4 miles beyond the turnoff. Fording a stream is necessary to access the campground.
Address
SAWTOOTH NRA
Stanley, ID
Coordinates
43.8475 N
114.7566667 W
Connectivity
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- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
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- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Fires
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 18 min from Twin Falls, ID
- 3 hrs 9 min from Boise, ID
- 3 hrs 17 min from Idaho Falls, ID
- 3 hrs 32 min from Pocatello, ID
