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Camper submitted image from Island Bar Recreation SiteView 11 Photos
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Island Bar Recreation Site

3 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Managed by the Bureau of Land Management within its Cottonwood Field Office, Island Bar Recreation Site sits along the Salmon River outside Riggins, accessible by boat, vehicle, or on foot. Campers can set up on the beach or back into the tree line, and the river draws anglers, swimmers, and paddlers. Vault toilets are on-site, but water is not provided. This is desert terrain, so expect snakes and spiders. Bring a fire pan, as one is required for ground fires, and pack all your own water.

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Air Quality at this campground may currently be unhealthy for sensitive groups.

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Map & DirectionsIsland Bar Recreation Site is located in Idaho near Riggins

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

4 miles east of Riggins, Idaho

Coordinates

45.41583317 N
116.25944467 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
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    Verizon
    Possible Coverage
    Verified by 46 users
    Last on 5/28/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    Possible Coverage
    Verified by 46 users
    Last on 5/28/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

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

Drive Time

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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Island Bar Recreation Site

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5 Stars

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1 Star

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3.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Many campers appreciated the scenic riverside location with flexible beach or treed camping spots and excellent water recreation access. Visitors need to bring water and proper waste facilities as amenities are limited.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
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
Showing results 1-3 of 3 reviews

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.

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