RV camping in Clayton, Idaho offers sites adjacent to the Salmon River corridor in Central Idaho. This remote region sits at approximately 6,000 feet elevation with summer temperatures typically ranging from 45°F at night to 85°F during daytime. Cell service varies significantly throughout the area, with most campgrounds experiencing limited connectivity except in larger towns like Challis or Stanley.
What to do
Mountain biking access: At Elk Bend RV Park, visitors can bring mountain bikes for rides on nearby country roads. "If you are needing to camp (even in a tent!) anywhere near Salmon, Idaho, you need to go and see Stewart at Elk Bend RV Park. Say hi to the deer that roam the area, too, or walk across the street and listen to the Salmon River," notes one visitor.
Soak in hot springs: Challis Hot Springs offers visitors access to two mineral pools without hiking. "This place has it ALLLLL. Tent sites, RV sites w/electric and water, dry sites; boat ramp; playground, volleyball net, clothes lines, hot springs pools (2!); showers; camp store with ice," explains a camper. The larger pool stays around 97°F while the smaller pool reaches 107°F.
ATV/UTV trails: Mackay provides excellent terrain for off-road vehicles. "Great area for ATV/UTV riding!" reports a visitor to Wagon Wheel Motel & RV Park. The surrounding mountain roads offer numerous trail options for riders of various skill levels.
What campers like
River proximity: Multiple RV parks near Clayton provide access to the Salmon River. "The river is crystal clear over rocks and floating down on either and include plateable kayak, raft, or canoe is very doable," writes one Elk Bend RV Park visitor. Several campgrounds feature sites directly on or near the water.
Clean facilities: Reviewers frequently mention well-maintained restrooms at Round Valley RV Park in nearby Challis. "Stopped here on my road trip around Idaho. Very clean very open great views of the mountains around the valley. Clean restrooms nice showers," notes one camper. This complements the park's spacious pull-through sites.
Walking trails: Several RV parks provide access to hiking paths. "We stayed the night in a tent site, the place was beautiful! All the grass is nice and green, volleyball court, playground, two different hot pools from Hot springs. Beautiful flowers, right on the river! There's also hiking trails behind the campground," reports a Challis Hot Springs visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal operating windows: Most smaller RV parks near Clayton have limited seasonal availability. "This place is beautiful with spots on the river the rest of the park is green and lush with hot springs and showers that are very clean. $30 a night for a camp spot and we had rooftop tent," notes a visitor to Challis Hot Springs, which operates year-round unlike many seasonal facilities.
Grocery limitations: Stock up before arrival as local options are limited. One visitor to Stanley RV + Camp advises: "I would recommend getting groceries before you arrive bc local store is pitiful." The closest substantial grocery shopping requires driving to Challis or Stanley.
Connectivity challenges: Lack of reliable internet affects remote work possibilities. "We didn't have any AT&T cell service the entire time. We also logged into their wifi but it never worked for us," reports a visitor to The Sawmill Station. Plan accordingly if you need to stay connected during your stay.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Challis Hot Springs offers kid-friendly recreation areas. "Beautiful kept park with friendly service great hot tubs showers the campsites are immaculate," reports a visitor. The volleyball court and playground provide additional entertainment options beyond the pools.
Cabin options: For families wanting more shelter, Smiley Creek Lodge offers various accommodations. "It's a little bit of everything, lodge, yurts, cabins, rv spots, gas station, restaurant. RV spots were reasonable level. Bathrooms were clean. They had horseshoes and bean bags in a common area," notes one visitor.
Level sites: Look for campgrounds with flat, spacious areas for family setup. "We had a site with a great view of the Sawtooth Range and the valley," reports a camper about their experience. Sites with room for outdoor games and equipment setup enhance family camping experiences.
Tips from RVers
Space considerations: RV parks near Clayton vary in site spacing. "Good and beautiful, full hook up, good space between sites and super friendly hosts," notes an Elk Bend RV Park visitor. In contrast, other parks pack sites closer together with limited room for outdoor setups.
Utility positioning: Be prepared for shared hookup arrangements at some RV parks. "The utilities for each spot are just next to each other. Yours will have your spot number on it," explains a visitor to Meadows RV Park. This setup can sometimes create confusion during check-in.
Leveling requirements: Many RV parks in the Clayton area have gravel pads with minimal leveling assistance. "Many large and well spaced pull through sites, all on gravel. Very little shade. Water, sewer and electric all good. Easy in and out," explains a visitor about the conditions at Round Valley RV Park in Challis.
