Camping in the Carmen area occurs at elevations between 3,500-4,000 feet in the Salmon River corridor. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during day, with fishing season peaking from July through September. Campgrounds in this region often experience limited cell service but offer close proximity to the Salmon River.
What to do
**River activities: Fish for trout in the Salmon River at Camp Creek BLM Camping where sites back directly to the water. "Perfect view of the big dipper between the canyon view made for a beautiful night of star gazing by the fire ring. Plenty of fishing access and space to walk around the river," notes Kristy A.
**Kayaking: Rent kayaks at River's Fork Lodge & RV Park for paddling the calm sections of the Salmon River. According to Gabe L., "The fishing was spot on, right on the river you don't have to even drive anywhere if you don't want. They also offer kayak rentals... Next time we come back we will definitely float the river."
**High alpine exploration: Drive the 15-mile gravel road to Twin Lakes for non-motorized lake activities. "Clear water to see the bottom where it's shallow enough. No motorized boats allowed, so bring your own kayak or canoe and a fishing pole or two to enjoy the refreshing waters at the bottom of the mountains," shares madeline K.
What campers like
**Direct river access: Campsites at Bobcat Gulch offer immediate river proximity with designated fire rings. "Pretty small and basic campground. I counted what I think was 9 sites... Most sites back up to the river which is pretty nice. FREE and pretty quiet for the Saturday night I stayed," reports Evan H.
**Clean facilities: Tower Rock Recreation Site maintains well-kept spaces with paved sites. "Overall it was a great campsite. The roads and campsites are paved. However, they had just cut the grass and weeds, which we appreciated," notes Melody M.
**Historical significance: Agency Creek Campground sits on the Lewis and Clark trail. "7 spots off the beaten path, small creek lehmi. On the Lewis and Clark trail. Bathroom is ADA," shares owen T.
What you should know
**Limited connectivity: Most campgrounds have minimal cell service. At Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground, "No cell service (AT&T & Sprint). Poor WiFi... If you are a digital nomad and stay here then go to Salmon (30-minute drive), turn left, and a few blocks down on your left is the public library. It's the best wifi you'll find," advises Brian C.
**Weather preparation: Mountain temperatures fluctuate significantly. At Twin Lakes, one camper notes, "in July it gets to be around 30° F at night so bring lots of extra blankets."
**Supply planning: Stock up in Salmon before heading to more remote sites. Lorrie K. reports, "Nearest town with groceries etc. is in Salmon so stock up before you go."
Tips for camping with families
**Designated pet areas: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Carmen offer specific pet recreation spaces. Andreas on the River RV Park includes a dedicated area for pets. Angie R. notes, "Dog park area is not fenced in. Nice place for them to do business."
**Swimming access: Find safer swimming spots for children at Cactus River Ranch RV & Campground along the river. "Beautiful river - the non service site is great- easy back in with 24 ft TT," mentions DOUGLAS S.
**Insect protection: Pack extra bug spray, especially for evenings. At Twin Lakes, Katie G. warns, "The mosquitos are terrible so bring lots of deet."
Tips from RVers
**Site size considerations: Many campgrounds have space limitations for larger rigs. At Tower Rock, Chip K. advises, "Loop is a bit tight in spots so I wouldn't recommend it for a large 5'er or motorhome."
**RV-friendly options: For larger rigs, consider Wagonhammer which offers pull-through sites. "Big spaces in the middle area. Smaller spots on the river. Modest but competent shower and laundry room," shares one camper named "Anything."
**Alternate destinations: When main campgrounds are full, head to primitive sites at Camp Creek BLM. "We travel in a 23 foot camper van. Plenty of room for our rig. Great views! Very little Verizon service. There are three spots to camp here," reports andrea C.
Traveler
