Tent camping near Ashton, Idaho provides visitors access to the western edge of Caribou-Targhee National Forest at elevations averaging 5,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during day, with higher elevation sites experiencing cooler conditions. Camping season generally runs May through October, with July and August offering the most reliable weather for overnight stays.
What to do
Fly fishing opportunities: The Warm Slough area offers excellent fishing access along Henry's Fork. According to one camper, "Great to go float river or fishing. Camping only allowed Oct 1 to Jan 31. 10 days max." This seasonal restriction impacts planning for fishing-focused trips.
Creek exploration: At Pole Bridge Campground, campers can enjoy streamside activities in a forested setting. One visitor noted, "Great out of the way forest stream spots" which provides seclusion while maintaining water access.
Boating access: Several camping areas provide boat launch facilities for water recreation. A review of Warm Slough mentioned, "Easily accessible. We camped in our tent, the roads were super easy to drive on. Great water access. Lots of wood for campfires. Yes cell phone service and it was free!"
What campers like
Secluded forest settings: The dispersed camping options northeast of Ashton offer privacy among pine and aspen forests. One camper at Targhee Creek shared, "Nice sized relatively level grassy sights along the mile and a half road to the creek. The road is quite rough but I did fine in my small two-wheel drive SUV. Very quiet and secluded. Good cell signal."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife including moose, deer, and occasionally bears. A Warm Slough camper reported, "We spent 2 nights here in between trips to Yellowstone and Tetons due to winter road closures. Great spot to hang out outside of Rexburg. Each site has a fire ring and plenty of privacy. Toilets are operating and clean. Right on the banks of the slough and there's even a resident moose!"
Seasonal variations: Spring and fall camping provides different experiences. At Targhee Creek, one visitor observed, "The water this time of year is too high and too cold for us to swim/wade in but our dogs love it! Plenty of space to spread out and enjoy a private camping experience!"
What you should know
Finding dispersed sites: Navigation to some sites requires careful planning. One camper at Warm Slough advised, "This place was hard to find - I almost gave up. The GPS directions and coordinates on this app are both wrong. Take Warm Slough Rd off 4000 N. Ignore the no trespassing signs- they refer to the land on either side of the road."
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites are unpaved and can be challenging. A camper at Eagle Park Campground noted, "No big RV's allowed. You don't want to take an RV down that road. Not very good turnaround spots."
Facility maintenance: Amenities at some sites receive inconsistent upkeep. One review stated, "As many free sites are it hasn't been maintained or respected by those who use it. There's trash all over and broken glass in the pit toilet. But there's some picnic tables and fire pits and plenty of space."
Tips for camping with families
Bear safety preparation: When camping with children in bear country, proper food storage is essential. A reviewer at Pole Bridge Campground mentioned, "Next to the Creek, large spots, picnic tables and bear boxes. Bring insect repellant." Bear boxes allow safe food storage when camping with families.
Bug protection: Insect activity varies by location and season. One camper at Targhee Creek warned, "I pulled up around 7pm and it was the best view somehow, loved the spot wide open before the trails of the pass. I wasn't near the creek, but the flies were unbearable despite using spray of all kinds."
Seasonal timing: Weather conditions significantly impact the family camping experience. A Targhee Creek visitor advised, "This was a beautiful spot with a decent selection of places to be. The road is very rough with many potholes though. If the weather is good it would be a great place to be! We went while it was raining…would not recommend."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many camping areas near Ashton restrict RV access based on road conditions. At Eagle Peak Lodge, a camper reported, "Made reservations by phone and instructions were to enter campground and pick a site, then come to office, which is in the lodge to register. Sites are FHU and level with gravel pads. This is one of the few parks in the area you can get into with short notice."
Reservation processes: Due to limited availability, advance planning is recommended for RV camping. A visitor shared, "We booked this place around 7pm because we could not get a hold of anywhere else in the greater area including calling this place twice with no answer."
Alternative options: When established RV sites fill up, some campers find success with nearby locations. One camper noted, "We stumbled upon this place when we couldn't find anything else and it was wonderful. If you plan on hiking, bring bear spray."
