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Established Camping

Island Bar Recreation Site

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Island Bar Recreation Site near Riggins, ID, is situated along the Salmon River, offering a landscape of riverbanks and forested areas. Temperatures range from 30°F in winter to 90°F in summer, providing varied seasonal experiences. Visitors can explore the nearby Salmon River for fishing and rafting or visit the Nez Perce National Historical Park for cultural insights.

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Location

Island Bar Recreation Site is located in Idaho

Detail location of campground

Directions

4 miles east of Riggins, Idaho

Coordinates

45.41583317 N
116.25944467 W

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Connectivity

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Drive Time

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
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    AT&T
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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

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Reviews

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3.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 4, 2019

Rustic camping right on the river

Lover camping on the river here! You can sleep right on the beach or up in the trees. Bring your own water but there are vault toilets. Need a pan or something for fires, but some of the best camping! Wake up to amazing views of the river, you can put your boat in upstream and float down to your site. There cliffs for jumping off and hikes can be found along the way. Lots of wildlife to see. One of my favorite spots.

Site1/4 mile up from the put-in
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Island Bar Recreation Site by Erin M., August 4, 2019
  • Review photo of Island Bar Recreation Site by Erin M., August 4, 2019
  • Review photo of Island Bar Recreation Site by Erin M., August 4, 2019
  • (9) View All
Reviewed Sep. 10, 2017

Wild horses and sandy beaches

This beautiful spot on the Salmon River is easy to get to. Great for fishing, swimming and kayaking. There are snakes and spiders as this is a desert zone so be careful! Also a cassette toilet is required to camp here!

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Island Bar Recreation Site by Jessica C., September 10, 2017
  • Review photo of Island Bar Recreation Site by Jessica C., September 10, 2017

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Island Bar Recreation Site located near Riggins, Idaho?

Island Bar Recreation Site is beautifully situated directly on the Salmon River near Riggins, Idaho. This riverside camping area is relatively easy to access during regular season, though early season conditions can sometimes make it inaccessible except for paddlers. The site offers campers spectacular views of the Salmon River in a desert environment. Its proximity to Riggins makes it a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area while enjoying the natural beauty of Idaho's river country.

Is camping free at Island Bar Recreation Site?

Yes, camping at Island Bar Recreation Site is free. This riverside camping area doesn't charge fees for overnight stays, making it a budget-friendly option for outdoor enthusiasts. Remember that a cassette toilet is required to camp here, so you'll need to bring your own portable waste system. Be sure to follow all posted regulations regarding waste disposal and camp etiquette to help keep this free camping area available for everyone to enjoy.

What amenities are available at Island Bar Recreation Site?

Island Bar Recreation Site offers basic amenities for a primitive camping experience. The site provides vault toilets, but you must bring your own water as there is no potable water available. Campers should note that a cassette toilet is required for overnight stays. There are no electrical hookups, showers, or dump stations. Fire containers are necessary as you'll need a pan or similar container for campfires. The campground offers both beach camping right along the river and spots up in the trees, giving campers options based on their preference.

What recreational activities can I do at Island Bar Recreation Site?

Island Bar Recreation Site offers abundant water-based recreation on the Salmon River. Popular activities include fishing, swimming, and kayaking in the river's beautiful waters. Many visitors enjoy putting in boats upstream and floating down to their campsite. The riverside location creates perfect opportunities for paddling adventures and relaxing by the water. The surrounding desert environment also offers wildlife viewing, though be aware of the natural presence of snakes and spiders. Waking up to stunning river views adds to the overall recreational experience, making this site ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking river-focused activities.