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Established Camping

Emerald Creek Campground

Emerald Creek Campground, near Clarkia, Idaho, is a serene spot that offers a peaceful escape into nature. With its lush surroundings and well-spaced campsites, it’s perfect for those looking to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

This campground features clean vault toilets and a pump for drinking water, making it convenient for campers. Visitors have praised the beautiful campsites, with one reviewer noting, “There was only one other group at the site, but all the tent spots were well spaced apart.” The sound of the nearby creek adds a soothing backdrop, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere.

For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the area is known for garnet hunting, with some spots just a short hike away. Campers have mentioned the fun of searching for Idaho's state gem in the creek, making it a unique experience. Plus, the campground is pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along for the fun.

While the campground is rustic—meaning you’ll need to pack in and pack out—this adds to its charm. The dense forest is home to a variety of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for some local critters. Whether you’re here for a quiet retreat or to explore the natural beauty of Idaho, Emerald Creek Campground is a fantastic choice.

Description

National Forest

The Emerald Creek Garnet Area is CURRENTLY CLOSED see Emerald Creek Garnet Area for current conditions Emerald Creek Campground features 18 camp units, potable water, and vault toilets. a short distance from the campground. The Garnet Area is one of our most popular recreation sites where, for a small fee, one can dig for gem quality star garnets. Mosquitos can be prolific throughout the season, consider bringing bug repellent.

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Location

Emerald Creek Campground is located in Idaho

Detail location of campground

Directions

In Fernwood, ID, take State Rt. 3 south 4 miles to campground sign (Forest Rt. 447). Turn right at sign onto Rt. 447 and go 3.2 miles to a "Y" intersection. Bear left and go 1.7 miles to campground on left.

Coordinates

47.00826469 N
116.3258814 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Good
  • Verizon
    Available
  • AT&T
    Available
  • T-Mobile
    Fair

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info


Reviews

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5 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 14, 2023

Quiet and lush

Campgrounds are good, nice fire pits and bathrooms. Mosquitos were bad. Pets welcome on leash.

Site8
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Emerald Creek Campground by sophie P., June 14, 2023
  • Review photo of Emerald Creek Campground by sophie P., June 14, 2023
  • Review photo of Emerald Creek Campground by sophie P., June 14, 2023
Reviewed Jun. 20, 2022

Quiet and Perfect

Very quiet and off the beaten path, but thats what makes it so awesome.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Oct. 29, 2019

Quiet camping

Really beautiful campsites and very clean. There was only one other group at the site, but all the tent spots were well spaced apart. The creek was nice background noise. It is also lots of fun to go look for garnets in the creek! Idaho's state gem! The garnet area was closed when we went (erosion), but garnet sand was visible farther down the creek along the road.

  • Review photo of Emerald Creek Campground by Celine K., October 29, 2019
Reviewed Jul. 1, 2017

Gorgeous small campground

This was the prettiest campground we stayed in during an extensive road trip through Idaho. It was only half occupied during the end of June, so we enjoyed privacy and numerous bird songs. Care and creativity were used when building the sites; ours had tent sites on 2 levels, and another had little stairs carved into the dirt. Our site was very large and had very stately evergreen trees and a trail heading out. Sites for RVs seemed nice, too. There were clean vault toilets and a pump for potable water...all for $6. There's a nearby site (4 miles away) where garnets can be sluiced For at a Forest Service site. We didn't go there but maybe next time, as we are eager to return!

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Emerald Creek Campground by Gretchen B., July 1, 2017
  • Review photo of Emerald Creek Campground by Gretchen B., July 1, 2017
  • Review photo of Emerald Creek Campground by Gretchen B., July 1, 2017
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Sep. 16, 2016

Rustic camping

This is a pack in pack out camp site. You have to hike to emerald lake! There is no potable water, no outhouses, and no trashcans! Please preserve this places beauty and pick up after yourselves. It is absolutely beautiful the forest is very dense and filled with wolves, couple mountain lions, and a few bears. Please be mindful of that. To get to emerald lake you have to hike down a very steep incline. But it's worth it! The lake is so beautiful and clear you can watch a fish snag your line!

  • Review photo of Emerald Creek Campground by Stephanie L., September 16, 2016
  • Review photo of Emerald Creek Campground by Stephanie L., September 16, 2016
  • Review photo of Emerald Creek Campground by Stephanie L., September 16, 2016
  • (5) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the max vehicle length at Emerald Creek Campground?

    Emerald Creek Campground allows vehicles up to 50 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Emerald Creek Campground?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Emerald Creek Campground, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Emerald Creek Campground have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Emerald Creek Campground does not have wifi.