Best Campgrounds near Clayton, ID

Are you in need of a campground near Clayton, ID? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Idaho camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Clayton, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Clayton, Idaho (198)

    1. Big Bayhorse

    5 Reviews
    Clayton, ID
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 879-4100

    "I did it with my Tacoma pulling a tiny camper but when I arrived at the lake, there were much larger vehicles than mine already there."

    "This place was recommended by our camp host in lower Idaho. We made the drive up in our F-350 diesel and it felt sketchy in a few places. Took about 45 min."

    2. Bayhorse Recreation Site

    5 Reviews
    Challis, ID
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 879-6200

    "Beautiful drive up an old road that takes you past amazing mining ruins. At the top we found a beautiful campground next to a mtn top lake."

    "Great place to put in on the Salmon River, access to hiking, etc"

    3. East Fork

    2 Reviews
    Clayton, ID
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 879-6200

    $5 - $10 / night

    " This is a very well manicured campground that sits directly off of highway 75. It is very small and mostly sunny."

    4. Winged Fork Pl Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Clayton, ID
    8 miles

    "Decent dirt road but great drive. Just past private land into National Forest, can see Germainia trailhead from there. Old settlement remains on river."

    5. Deadman Hole

    3 Reviews
    Clayton, ID
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 879-6200

    "Pros: *Views for miles *Steps from the Salmon River *Boat launch for rafting,kayaking,fishing *Covered picnic table *Generous spacing between sites *Serious star gazing opportunities

    • Easy drive to Challis"

    " Though this campground sits along the highway it is easier to tolerate noise when its free! 

    The campground loop is gravel and has “pull next to” (bump out?)"

    6. The Sawmill Station

    2 Reviews
    Clayton, ID
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 838-2400

    $30 / night

    "It was the perfect location close to Stanley. It was a bit dusty. Bathroom was clean. Showers were good. The food at the restaurant was amazing. We have AT&T and no cell service."

    8. Whiskey Flats Campground

    1 Review
    Clayton, ID
    8 miles
    Website

    " This campground sits just below a highway bridge which makes it noisy but you also get to hear the river as almost all the campsites sit next to it."

    9. Torreys Burnt Creek Inn

    1 Review
    Clayton, ID
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 838-2313

    10. Challis National Forest Little Bayhorse Campground

    1 Review
    Challis, ID
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 879-4100

    "Near a lake with fishing and hiking opportunities. Campsites are clean with good spacing between them. Super hidden and worth the drive up."

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Showing results 1-10 of 198 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Clayton, ID

409 Reviews of 198 Clayton Campgrounds



Guide to Clayton

Camping near Clayton, Idaho, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the water, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: The area is home to numerous trails, including those leading to breathtaking views of the Sawtooth Mountains. One camper mentioned, “The hike up to Goat Lake is still one of our most favorite hikes, simply gorgeous but strenuous at times” at Iron Creek Campground.
  • Water Activities: Enjoy fishing or kayaking in the nearby lakes. A review from Sockeye Campground highlights, “Gorgeous views. Any kind of water sports you crave.”
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife. One visitor at Redfish Inlet Trailhead noted, “Beautiful campgrounds with fearlessly friendly deer who visit your evening campfire.”

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning landscapes. A review for Stanley Lake Campground states, “Incredible views from about half of the sites.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are well-maintained. One camper at North Fork Campground said, “Very clean and well-maintained pit toilets.”
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the peaceful environment. A review for Casino Creek Campground mentions, “This was a quiet place across the river from the main road.”

What you should know

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A visitor at Salmon River Campground noted, “No cell reception ATT, Verizon, or TMobile.”
  • Seasonal Access: Most campgrounds are open from late spring to early fall. For example, Sunny Gulch Campground operates from May 23 to September 7.
  • Bear Awareness: Be cautious of wildlife, especially bears. A camper at North Fork Campground mentioned, “He even alerted the campers that a bear was spotted a few miles down.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with amenities like picnic tables and fire pits. A review for Challis Hot Springs highlights, “The campsites are immaculate.”
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a mix of activities for everyone. One camper at Redfish Lake Outlet Campground said, “There are pay showers $3, laundry and dump station on the main road.”
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and layers, as nights can get chilly. A visitor at Iron Creek Campground noted, “Even in the summer, nights drop into the 30s.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Salmon River Campground mentions, “Each site varies in length. We would fit in many of them in our 26' Class C but larger rigs may have a problem.”
  • Look for Amenities: Choose campgrounds with water and dump stations. One camper at North Fork Campground appreciated, “There were garbage dumpsters and pit toilet bathrooms and water spigots throughout.”
  • Be Prepared for Dust: Some campgrounds can be dusty, especially during busy seasons. A visitor at Stanley Lake Campground mentioned, “There is constant traffic from site seekers and continual dusting because of it.”

Camping near Clayton, Idaho, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Clayton, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, Clayton, ID offers a wide range of camping options, with 198 campgrounds and RV parks near Clayton, ID and 35 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Clayton, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Clayton, ID is Big Bayhorse with a 4-star rating from 5 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Clayton, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 35 free dispersed camping spots near Clayton, ID.

What parks are near Clayton, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Clayton, ID that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.