Bureau of Land Management's Challis Field Office manages Deadman Hole, a free dispersed campground positioned directly along the highway near the Salmon River. This gravel-loop facility provides five drive-up sites, each equipped with a covered picnic table and fire pit, plus vault toilets and a hand-pump water source.
The campground sits close enough to the road that vehicle noise carries through most sites. Ben H. notes "Access to the river as well," though the shallow water and muddy banks limit swimming opportunities. A boat ramp serves rafters and anglers, while day-use areas accommodate non-camping visitors.
Cell service proves unreliable across all major carriers, with minimal connectivity even using signal boosters. The open layout provides little privacy between sites, though generous spacing prevents crowding. Reviewers consistently mention the facility's cleanliness and the presence of cattle grazing across the river. Small insects can penetrate tent screens during certain seasons.
Sites rarely fill to capacity, making this a reliable overnight stop for travelers. Campers seeking more secluded options can explore East Fork southwest of the area.
Description
Deadman Hole has 5 first come, first served primitive campsites adjacent to the scenic Upper Salmon River. Anglers have access to great fishing opportunities. Amenities include restrooms, picnic shelters, drinking water, ample parking, and a boat ramp. This site has limited cell service.
Fee Info
Primitive campsites are first come, first served. Camping fee: free. Stay limit: 14 days.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsDeadman Hole is located in Idaho near Clayton
Directions
12 miles southwest of Challis, Idaho. Travel south from Challis on Highway 93 for 2 miles, turn right on Highway 75, and drive southwest for approximately 12 miles. The site is on the river side of Highway 75 between the river and the highway.
Coordinates
44.34429974816743 N
114.26936766867374 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
- Cabins
- Tent Cabin
- Yurts
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Deadman Hole needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 22 min from Idaho Falls, ID
- 2 hrs 37 min from Pocatello, ID
- 3 hrs 9 min from Twin Falls, ID
- 3 hrs 48 min from Boise, ID













