Tent camping sites near Cobalt, Idaho typically operate from late May through September due to heavy snowfall at higher elevations during winter months. The camping locations sit within the Salmon-Challis National Forest and Bureau of Land Management lands at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 7,000 feet. Water levels in the Salmon River fluctuate seasonally, with peak flows occurring during spring runoff in May and June.
What to do
Fishing access points: Camp Creek BLM Camping offers direct river access for anglers targeting cutthroat trout. According to visitor Noah M., it's an "amazing drive-in BLM campsite right on the Salmon River" with "primitive site; no water/bathroom."
Historical exploration: Visit the abandoned mining settlements near Wallace Lake Campground. Camper Tanny M. shares: "Touring the mining towns near by was so much fun! We piddled around in a raft around the lake and did some fishing. Saw quite a bit of wildlife."
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution makes Camp Creek an ideal location for astronomy enthusiasts. Kristy A. noted the "perfect view of the big dipper between the canyon view made for a beautiful night of star gazing by the fire ring."
What campers like
River swimming spots: Multiple campsites offer immediate water access for cooling off during summer months. At Waddington Creek Primitive Campsite, Liv M. mentioned it's a "huge site" with "Super nice being next to a river, road wasn't a problem with loud traffic. Good hammock trees."
Cell service availability: Unlike many remote camping areas, some sites maintain unexpected connectivity. Jibran B. found Waddington Creek Primitive Campsite surprisingly connected: "And there's 9 bars of service to boot! It's fall and the colors are outstanding. Yellows and oranges surround the banks, the river."
Site privacy: Many locations provide well-separated camping areas. Andrea C. at Camp Creek BLM Camping stated: "We had the first pull through spot and was perfect. Great views! Very little Verizon service. There are three spots to camp here."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive sites vary significantly in quality and difficulty. Frank W. warns about Waddington Creek Campground: "Very steep grand off highway to one site. Not recommended if you are pulling any type of camper."
Limited facilities: Most sites require complete self-sufficiency. Eric D. cautions about Camp Creek BLM Camping: "It's just a pull off. Not much for flat spots or anything else. You will need to have everything you need with you."
Seasonal popularity: Summer weekends see increased visitation, particularly at accessible sites. At Bobcat Gulch, Connie H. reported: "We tried to stop here for an overnight, but it was completely full! There were so many trucks, trailers, camper vans, etc... looked like a nice spot, but since there wasn't much room anywhere, we decided to head further down the road."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer chances to observe local wildlife safely. Tanny M. recalls their Wallace Lake experience: "We piddled around in a raft around the lake and did some fishing. Saw quite a bit of wildlife. We had a great camping spot right by the water."
Historical points of interest: Waddington Creek provides educational opportunities about local history. Annie C. suggests: "Go a couple hundred yards north and cross the river on the one lane bridge to come back down river to check out Duggout Dick's hermit house and orchard. You can see the interpretive signs about Duggout Duck and his interesting life and you can peer in some Windows of one of his hand build houses."
Suitable swimming areas: Look for campsites with gradual water entry points for safer water play. Jibran B. found Waddington Creek ideal in autumn: "It's beautiful. And luckily calm and warm for this time of year."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many primitive areas require extra equipment for comfortable parking. At Bobcat Gulch, Evan H. notes: "Pretty small and basic campground. I counted what I think was 9 sites? There are no numbered sites, just designated fire rings to indicate the different sites I suppose."
Vehicle size limitations: Smaller vehicles navigate access roads more successfully. Andrea C. shares from Camp Creek BLM Camping: "We travel in a 23 foot camper van. Plenty of room for our rig."
Riverside parking considerations: When camping near the Salmon River, be aware of potential seasonal flooding areas. Liv M. confirmed Waddington Creek accessibility: "We were able to take my honda civic down."
