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Established Camping

Emerald Creek Campground

5 Reviews
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

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.

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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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Connectivity

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Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Moose Creek Reservoir Access

Moose Creek Reservoir Access

27 min away

Marble Creek Campground

Marble Creek Campground

1 hr 48 min away

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

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

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5 Reviews

s
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
C
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
Gretchen B.
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
Stephanie L.
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
Showing results 1-5 of 5 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What facilities and amenities are available at Emerald Creek Campground in Idaho?

Emerald Creek Campground offers basic amenities for an authentic outdoor experience. The campground features well-designed campsites with fire pits, and clean bathrooms are available for visitors. It's a pack-in, pack-out facility, meaning you'll need to carry out your trash as there are no trashcans on site. There's no potable water available, so be sure to bring enough for your stay. The campground is pet-friendly, but dogs must be kept on leash. Sites are thoughtfully laid out with some featuring multi-level tent platforms, offering privacy even when other campers are present.

Where is Emerald Creek Campground located and how do I get there?

Emerald Creek Campground is located in northern Idaho, in a secluded forest setting. The campground is situated off the beaten path, which contributes to its quiet and peaceful atmosphere. While it's somewhat remote, it's still accessible by vehicle. For specific directions, it's recommended to check with the Forest Service office that manages the area. The campground is generally considered to be within reasonable driving distance from Post Falls, Idaho.

Can I dig for garnets near Emerald Creek Campground?

Yes, the Emerald Creek area is famous for garnet hunting, and it's one of the main attractions near the campground. Idaho's state gem (the garnet) can be found in the creek, making for a fun activity during your stay. There is a designated garnet digging area, though it may occasionally close due to erosion or other environmental concerns. Before planning your trip specifically for garnet hunting, check with the Forest Service for current status, fees, and any tools or equipment that might be permitted or prohibited for collecting these beautiful red gemstones.

Are there rivers or water features at Emerald Creek Campground?

Yes, Emerald Creek runs through the campground, providing a pleasant background soundtrack of flowing water for campers. The creek enhances the natural beauty of the site and contributes to the tranquil camping experience. To reach Emerald Lake, visitors will need to hike from the campground. The water features add to the area's scenic appeal and create a refreshing atmosphere, especially during warmer months.

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