Casino Creek Campground offers dedicated equestrian camping areas across the Salmon River from Highway 75 near Stanley. This location sits at approximately 6,200 feet elevation in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. The campground's surrounding terrain features a mix of sagebrush, pine forests, and mountain meadows, with seasonal temperature variations from below freezing at night to warm days even in summer months.
What to do
Riverside fishing access: The Salmon River runs along Casino Creek Campground, providing spots for anglers. At Decker Flats Dispersed, campers report excellent fishing opportunities. "You can still see peoples homes from this point and the locals seem to utilize the creek trail regularly with off leash dogs," notes Bethany W., who adds that "There's a crystal clear pond that feeds the creek. It has trout visible."
Mountain biking nearby: Several trails accessible from the campground network connect to larger regional routes. "The rails to trails multi purpose trail starts just down the road. Super safe place to ride. 30+ miles," shares Nancy C. from Murdock Creek Dispersed, highlighting the connectivity to longer routes suitable for day trips.
Lake swimming options: For those willing to drive a short distance, the area offers several lake options for swimming beyond the Salmon River. "Lake Creek Rd is a few miles long with about 15 sites along it. The creek is perfect for dogs and kids to wade in," says Jeremiah C. about Lake Creek Rd Dispersed, mentioning "There's a small lake further down to fish."
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: The area falls within the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, offering exceptional night sky viewing. "The real treat came when we saw the beauty of the night sky unencumbered by city lights; the Milky Way was on full display," reports Chad L. from Glacier View Campground, who specifically chose a site that maximized viewing conditions.
Reliable water sources: Unlike some other dispersed camping areas, equestrian camping near Ketchum provides access to drinking water. "Hand pump water, toilets, and dumpsters for trash though no recycling," notes Laura M. about Mormon Bend Campground, which makes longer stays more feasible for those with horses requiring regular watering.
Proximity to trailheads: The immediate access to trail systems directly from camp makes these sites particularly valuable for horse riders. "There are plenty of trails for various activities for this place: Hiking, Biking, Horseback riding, ATV use, and Fishing," Laura M. explains about Casino Creek, highlighting the diversity of trail options accessible without trailering.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: The horse camping areas typically operate from May through October, with variable opening dates. "Visited in August 2024. Driving past mega mansions will eventually lead you to a dirt road stretching into an open valley. Went during late summer, so it was fairly dusty," explains Sam S. about Lake Creek Rd Dispersed camping conditions.
Road conditions: Access to some horse camping areas requires navigating unpaved roads that may present challenges for larger rigs. "The paved road comes to an end with a large parking or turn around area then turns to a very washboarded dirt/gravel road that runs behind people's houses," Laura M. notes about Lake Creek Rd Dispersed.
Campsite availability patterns: Finding available equestrian sites often requires strategic timing. "They were all full buy the evening so come earlier!" advises Salvy F. regarding Lake Creek Rd Dispersed sites, while at Glacier View Campground, Annie C. explains "Most of the sites had been reserved in advance and I happened to catch it on the one between night."
Tips for camping with families
Fire restrictions awareness: Family cooking plans should account for common fire restrictions. "The host had firewood for sale ($10) but fire restrictions are in effect so no fires at this time," Laura M. notes about Mormon Bend Campground, highlighting that even when firewood is available, regulations may prevent its use.
Kid-friendly water access: For families with children, select sites with safer water entry points. "This campground is not run by the forest service but by a concessionaire," notes Annie C. about Casino Creek, adding "There is a fence between you and the river, but not something you couldn't just hop over to get to the water," indicating manageable access for supervised children.
Weather preparedness: Families should pack for significant temperature variations regardless of season. "Come prepared for cold nights even in the summer," advises Miles G. from Mount Heyburn Campground, adding that "Water will be just as cold unless its August but it's refreshing and extremely clear."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for horse trailers: Not all equestrian camping areas accommodate larger rigs equally well. "Nice spot close to ketchup! Lots of room for big rigs. Probably 20 or so spots all up the road," notes Salvy F. about Lake Creek Rd Dispersed, while at Casino Creek Campground, specific sites at the end of the loop are designated for equestrian use with larger trailers.
Leveling considerations: RVers should scout sites carefully for level parking. "The sites were level and some with shade but over all lots of sun," reports Laura M. about Mormon Bend Campground, while at Murdock Creek Dispersed Josh T. describes it as a "Good spot not too far back the road. About 12 sites here. First come. Set against the side of the mountain."
Dump station locations: Plan water and waste management carefully when horse camping. "No trash, water, or RV dump here but you can find one ~20 min away here: (43.7948535, -114.4216629)," advises Bethany W. about facilities near Lake Creek Rd Dispersed, indicating the need to factor in travel time for services.
Ranger
