Tent campsites near Howe, Idaho sit within the Challis National Forest at elevations ranging from 5,800 to 7,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during daytime hours while dropping to 40-50°F overnight. Most primitive camping areas remain snow-covered until late May, with access roads often impassable during winter and early spring thaw conditions.
What to do
Fishing creek access: At Timber Creek, campers can easily access stream fishing from nearly every campsite. "This campground has 2 streams running on both sides of it so most camp spots have access right into the water," notes camper Tate W.
Day hiking to alpine lakes: The Broad Canyon Campground serves as a gateway to numerous alpine lakes. "There is a great trailhead hence the campground name which is a great day hike or backpacking trail. The high mountain lakes are beautiful and the fishing is fun," reports Kenny M.
Wildlife viewing: The Fish Creek Reservoir area provides excellent bird watching opportunities throughout summer months. "We saw bald eagles among other cool birds," reports camper Allison W., who visited the reservoir campground.
What campers like
Cool mountain temperatures: Mt. Borah Trailhead and Camping Area offers a climate advantage over lower elevations. "The campground sits right around 7200' which is a decent bit cooler than the Big Lost River Valley to the west," explains Alan B.
Uncrowded camping experiences: Many tent campsites near Howe remain relatively empty even during peak summer months. "I was worried I wouldn't get a spot so I got there early. Only 1 other family was camping there," shares Tate W. about Timber Creek.
Sunrise mountain views: Certain dispersed camping areas provide exceptional morning vistas. At West Dubois Pulloff, camper Rex W. notes you can "See the Tetons to the east at sunrise, it's beautiful."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Campers must plan for water needs carefully. At Iron Bog Campground, "The hand water pump did not pump water; water was probably turned off for the season," according to Fred S. who visited in late September.
No cell coverage: Communication systems are unavailable throughout most camping areas. "No T-Mobile and AT&T cell service," reports Fred S. about Iron Bog Campground, while at Fish Creek Reservoir another camper notes there is "No cell service whatsoever, so be aware of that."
Weather conditions can change rapidly: High elevation camping brings variable weather patterns. Wind can be particularly challenging at some sites, with Zaq O. describing West Dubois Pulloff as "Good option for the night but bit windy and not much protection."
Tips for camping with families
Choose creek-side campsites: Stream access provides built-in entertainment for children. Timber Creek offers approximately "12 or so camp spots" with most having "access right into the water," making it ideal for families.
Look for flat terrain: Camping areas with level ground make setup easier with children. At Fish Creek Reservoir, the sites are "well laid out and kept," though families should note that "it can get hot and windy, but everything improves in the evening."
Pack insect repellent: Mosquitoes can be problematic in early summer near water sources. One camper mentions that evening conditions improve "particularly once the mosquitoes go away" at Fish Creek Reservoir.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: While many area campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs, large rigs may struggle. At Iron Bog Campground, one camper observed that "the guy across from me struggled to fit his 30' rig in his spot, he did it!"
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive camping areas can present challenges. At Mt. Borah Trailhead, campers report "Easy access, adequate parking," while at Iron Bog, "Gravel road to this out-of-the-way campground was in good condition."
Boondocking opportunities: For self-contained RVs, dispersed camping options exist beyond developed campgrounds. Fred S. notes "There were several boondocking sites on the way to the campground" when describing access to Iron Bog.
