152 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping options in the Gibbonsville, Idaho area include both established campgrounds and more remote sites set along rivers and mountain terrain. Twin Creek Campground offers spacious, shaded sites for tents and RVs with clean vault toilets and water spigots. Several miles south, Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground provides full hookup sites directly on the Salmon River with shower facilities and a small store. The surrounding Salmon-Challis National Forest and nearby BLM lands provide a mix of developed campgrounds and more primitive options within 20-30 miles of Gibbonsville.
Seasonal considerations significantly affect camping access in this region, with many campgrounds operating from May through September or early November. Winter snow typically closes higher elevation roads, while spring runoff can create challenging creek crossings. Summer brings optimal conditions but increased visitor traffic, especially on weekends. Cell service is limited throughout the area, with virtually no coverage at most campgrounds—Verizon provides occasional connectivity at some locations, while AT&T coverage is nearly nonexistent. "No cell service for Verizon. Nearest town with groceries etc. is in Salmon so stock up before you go," noted one visitor to Wagonhammer RV Park.
Riverside camping locations receive consistently high ratings from visitors who appreciate the peaceful settings and natural surroundings. The campsites at Twin Creek are described as "big and shaded for the most part" with "great tasting water" and "very nicely spaced with lots of privacy between them." Several campgrounds in the area feature access to fishing, hiking, and off-road vehicle trails. Huckleberry picking is possible at some locations in late summer, adding a unique seasonal activity. Visitors commonly mention the clean facilities, helpful hosts, and quiet atmosphere as standout features. For those seeking complete solitude, the more remote forest service campgrounds provide the best experience, though they offer fewer amenities than the privately operated RV parks closer to main roads.
"Tis campground was a favorite on our Idaho trip. Lots of spots available on a week night. Great campground host. Bathrooms were really clean and great tasting water."
"Sites aren’t too close to each other so there is some privacy, and there are lots of trees for shade and hammocks."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"Just far enough off the highway that you barely hear some of the traffic. $15 per night, half with a pass. 2 clean pit toilets and I saw 2 water spigot."
"I enjoyed staying here, the hot springs/campground nearby were closed (and for sale) so this was a pleasant suprise and respite. The spaces are far enough apart that you feel like you have privacy."
from $15 / night
Check Availability"Great location & super clean! Our campsite was right next to the river. Dog friendly and there is a dog island that your fur kid can run around off leash!"
"Wonderful location with very little wifi services. If you want to relax in a very nice, park setting, surrounded by mountains, this would be your place. Big spaces in the middle area."
from $25 - $45 / night
Check Availability"We went on a drive to get some just to find out they were all around our campsite. There are a lot of trails for those who like to ride their off-road vehicles."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"It is a very off the beaten path, tucked away in the woods, true getaway from the busy city life."
"Nice are to get away from it all. Road is best traveled with AWD-4WD. Campgrounds are nice and level for tents."
"7 spots off the beaten path, small creek lehmi. On the Lewis and Ckark trail. Bathroom is ADA."
"Only downside is it’s rather close to the highway and you can hear cars driving by pretty regularly."
"We stayed in site #2 pretty close to the lodge which I think helped with the WiFi signal. The sites are large and easily fit our 28’ trailer and truck. Definitely could fit any size class A rig."
"I loved the isolation of the location. Up at 7200ft you get a little winded hiking around, but the incredible scenery is worth it."
from $45 / night
Check Availability"It’s not that far from the highway which is nice if your looking to explore the area. It’s peaceful and quiet, and not busy."
TravelerLoved this place. We stayed for 2 nights in June and it was a fantastic and relaxing spot. Clean and well maintained and surroundings were beautiful. My boys loved feeding the fish in the pond and walking up and down the river. Staff were very friendly and kind. Would absolutely stay here again
TravelerBeautiful views. Nice waterfall. Hiking is not too extreme. Go to the sites at the very back loop. Most tent and 40% could handle up to a 17’. Very clean campground. Great tent pads too. Drinking water is by hand pump. Bathrooms are vault toilets. Creek runs behind some sites.
Traveler⭐⭐⭐⭐ No shade. No water. No WiFi. No problem — if you knew what you were signing up for. If you didn't, Butte is about an hour away and they have everything you forgot, including sunscreen, which I apparently decided was optional. Spoiler: it is not.
Stock up before you arrive. Wise River has beer and ice. Everything else requires a field trip to Anaconda or Butte.
Nights are dead quiet and peaceful. Mornings are a different story — the Big Hole guide fleet arrives at dawn with boats, trailers, and zero concern for your sleep schedule. Bring earplugs or just embrace it.
Fishing was solid. Beware the whitefish. You'll know.
Restrooms were clean and well maintained, which honestly felt like a miracle given the remote location.
Stunning scenery in every direction. The Big Hole National Battlefield is nearby and absolutely worth a stop — just check the hours first. It's closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Not that anyone reads open/closed dates beforehand. Not that I would know anything about that. Gloriously far from everything else. Exactly as advertised.
ScoutThis is a beautiful area with a nicely developed campground. It has seven spacious sites and access to a couple of outhouses. The lake and surrounding mountains are beautiful and the fishing is good. The drive in is long and treacherous for anything much bigger than a jeep. It is bumpy, steep and very narrow with sharp drop offs . Be prepared to remove trees from the roadway in multiple spots. The spot is gorgeous, but we wouldn't do the drive again.
GuideTowing a 30 foot toy hauler. Easy in and out. No issues with big rigs. We were lucky and got a place on the Salmon River. We saw two elk and one tiny baby elk on the ridge. Bring your Binos. Highly recommend staying one night here. Absolutely beautiful. No water/power completely dry. Bathroom but primitive. No trash.
ScoutGreat for a spot to camp overnight. Passing through and just needed a place to camp for the night. Simple but did the job. Host is very nice and accommodating.
GuideThis is a great little campground. Very quiet. All pull through sites. Those nearest the camphost are close enough to the river to hear it.
GuideA cozy and quaint campground with a very friendly host. $15 per night. 20 sites total. First come first served. Picnic table and fire pit at each site. No cell service. Trails to explore around the lake and a beach too. I would highly recommend this CG and would love to revisit someday !!
GuideA cozy and quaint campground with the sweetest hosts. They greeted me when I was registering for the night and offered assistance and advice for things to do in the area. $25 per night. Paved parking spots at each site. Picnic table and fire pit at each site as well. 10 sites total I believe. First come first served. A couple trails to explore around the lake and a beach too. I would highly recommend and would love to go back another time !! No cell service.
Camping options near Gibbonsville, Idaho range from established Forest Service sites to riverside RV parks along the Salmon River corridor. The area sits at elevations between 4,000-5,000 feet in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, with the Continental Divide creating a natural border between Idaho and Montana. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day and drop to 40-50°F at night, making layered clothing essential for campers.
Huckleberry picking: Twin Creek Campground offers prime berry picking opportunities in late summer. "Huckleberries were ripe, added treat," notes one visitor who enjoyed the "beautiful forest" surrounding the campground.
Kayaking and river activities: The Salmon River provides excellent paddling opportunities for non-motorized watercraft. At River's Fork Lodge & RV Park, "they also offer kayak rentals. Unfortunately I didn't realize how warm, calm, and popular the river was. Next time we come back we will definitely float the river."
Off-road vehicle trails: For those with ATVs or dirt bikes, several campgrounds provide access to trail systems. "There are a lot of trails for those who like to ride their off-road vehicles," reports a camper at Twin Creek, highlighting the extensive trail network throughout the surrounding forest.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at Twin Lakes where you'll find "large, flat sites - many of which are right on the water. Plenty of space between sites." This mountain lake setting offers an escape from more crowded campgrounds.
Historical connections: Some campgrounds in the area have significant historical value. At Agency Creek Campground Lehmi Pass, one visitor noted it's situated "on the Lewis and Clark trail" with "7 spots off the beaten path" and an ADA-accessible bathroom.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The higher elevation campgrounds offer excellent wildlife spotting. At Hogan Cabin, visitors reported seeing "several deer and elk feeding in the field near the cabin, as well as a moose in the marsh along the creek."
Cell service limitations: Be prepared for minimal connectivity. At Indian Trees Campground, visitors report "No AT&T cell service but friends with Verizon had intermittent signal."
Remote access challenges: Many of the best places to camp near Gibbonsville require travel on unpaved roads. Twin Lakes Campground is "about a 15 mile commute on a gravel road" which means "if your plan is to stay at the campsite for the duration of your visit I would recommend it. But if you are going to explore the area you have to make the 30 mile round trip."
Seasonal temperature fluctuations: Even summer nights can be cold at higher elevations. At Twin Lakes, one camper warns, "in July it gets to be around 30° F at night so bring lots of extra blankets."
Look for campgrounds with creek access: Small water features provide entertainment for children. Annie C. describes Twin Creek Campground as having "the added bonus of the creek tinkling away below the campground," creating a peaceful background soundtrack.
Plan activities beyond fishing: Some parents note limited options for younger children. At Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground, one family traveling with "three kids under 5" appreciated the "beautiful and clean" setting but recommended planning additional activities since there's only so much fishing kids can do.
Find swimming spots: Not all riverside campgrounds have good swimming areas. One camper at Wagonhammer noted "one down side was the lack of nice swimming area in the campground," suggesting families should research swimming options before arrival.
Water and power availability: Full-hookup sites are limited in the region. At Bobcat Gulch, there are "no numbered sites, just designated fire rings" and no hookups available, though most sites "back up to the river which is pretty nice."
Site levelness varies: Many forest service campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Indian Trees Campground, "most sites are a bit hilly and you either have to walk uphill or downhill to your table and fire pit," requiring careful selection for RVs.
Stock up on supplies: Limited services mean preparation is essential. "No cell service for Verizon. Nearest town with groceries etc. is in Salmon so stock up before you go," advises one RVer about the North Fork area campgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping in Gibbonsville, Idaho?
Gibbonsville offers several excellent camping options in the surrounding area. Twin Creek Campground is a popular choice with nicely spaced sites offering privacy, clean bathrooms, and great-tasting water. Another option is Camp Creek BLM Camping, which provides riverside sites with mountain views, trees for hammocking, and relatively level spots for vehicle parking. For those seeking RV accommodations, options include Elk Bend RV Park near Salmon and Agency Creek Campground near Lehmi Pass. The region also offers Forest Service campgrounds like Sam Billings Memorial Campground, which features 12 well-maintained sites with tables and fire rings, including larger spots that can accommodate RVs.
When is the best time to visit Gibbonsville for camping?
The prime camping season in Gibbonsville runs from late spring through early fall, with July and August offering the most reliable weather. August is particularly popular for those interested in huckleberry picking, especially around the Twin Creek Campground Group Camping Site area. For a unique experience, consider visiting Twin Lakes during summer months when you can enjoy this off-the-beaten-path destination accessed via a scenic 18-mile gravel road from Wisdom, MT. Be prepared for mosquitoes at certain campgrounds like Mussigbrod, particularly in early summer. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds but cooler temperatures, while winter camping is generally limited due to access restrictions and facility closures.
What are the best hiking trails near Gibbonsville, ID?
The Gibbonsville area offers exceptional hiking opportunities throughout the surrounding mountains. Near Lake Como Campground, you'll find the stunning 9-mile loop trail around the lake with constant mountain and clear water views—well worth every step for its phenomenal scenery. For a different experience, Martin Creek area provides excellent hiking trails in a tucked-away, well-maintained setting with river access. The nearby Crystal Park area also offers beautiful trails, with Fourth of July Campground serving as a good base camp. During huckleberry season (typically August), the Twin Creek area becomes popular with hikers who combine trail exploration with berry picking in the surrounding hills.
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