Tent camping near Leadore, Idaho provides direct access to the remote Lemhi Valley and surrounding mountains of the Salmon-Challis National Forest. Located at approximately 6,100 feet elevation, this region experiences dramatic temperature fluctuations between day and night, even in summer months. The primitive camping areas range from riverside spots along the Salmon River to higher elevation sites situated near alpine lakes and forested trails.
What to do
Fishing access: Camp Creek BLM Camping offers immediate river access for anglers. "We had the first pull through spot and was perfect. Very little Verizon service," notes Andrea C., highlighting the balance between convenience and disconnection from technology at these riverside sites.
Swimming spots: Waddington Creek Primitive Campsite provides natural swimming areas. "Super nice being next to a river, road wasn't a problem with loud traffic. Good hammock trees," reports Liv M., who found the site accommodating despite arriving in a Honda Civic.
Hiking exploration: Big Eightmile Campground serves as a gateway to multiple trails. "Dairy creek trail was a short and fun trail. Able to complete it and the water was super clear and pretty. Also tried Patterson trail, Devils lake, Everson trail, eight mile trail which not able to complete due to snow or fallen trees," explains Krystal C., detailing the trail options available.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Multiple campgrounds feature direct stream or river access. At Timber Creek Campground, Tate W. reports, "This campground has 2 streams running on both sides of it so most camp spots have access right into the water. There are 12 or so camp spots. $10 a night. Lots of trees and very flat."
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. "The solitude and gurgling of Crooked River stayed constant as the hot sun slowly turned into the Milky Way," describes Jenny H. from Lone Tree Campground, emphasizing the dramatic transition from day to night.
Privacy between sites: Camp Creek BLM Camping offers well-spaced camping areas. "Each spot is super private, there aren't many spots. Ours was right on the river and we could easily go down and swim from our site," explains Mandi W., though noting proximity to Highway 93 means occasional traffic noise.
What you should know
Water sources: No potable water exists at most sites. Kristy A. advises about Camp Creek: "No faucet for potable water, bring your own or filter from the river," highlighting the need for self-sufficiency.
Cell service limitations: Most areas have minimal to no connectivity. "No cell signal (Verizon)" reports Mandi W. about Camp Creek, while Andrea C. mentions "Very little Verizon service" at the same location.
Seasonal access challenges: Many roads become impassable during winter and spring runoff. At Waddington Creek Campground, visitors need to navigate "a steep and narrow" road that's "perfect for a small 4x vehicle," according to Jibran B., who visited during fall when conditions were favorable.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible water play: Locations with gentle river access work best for children. Kristy A. describes Camp Creek as having "1 minute walk to the river from all sites" and being a "Beautiful place to adventure and be, would be a great spot for multiple nights. Space for people to bring their family or friends."
Historical sites: Take kids to explore nearby historical points of interest. Annie C. recommends: "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."
Toilet availability: Plan for primitive conditions at many sites. Frank W. notes that Waddington Creek is a "Nice off grid site" but has no facilities, while Timber Creek Reservoir offers limited toilet access: "There are vault toilets across the river," according to Beth B.
Tips from RVers
Site access evaluation: Many roads require high clearance vehicles. Frank W. cautions about Waddington Creek: "Very steep grand off highway to one site. Not recommended if you are pulling any type of camper."
Leveling challenges: Look for the few relatively flat parking areas. Kristy A. found Camp Creek to be "Relatively even for van parking," making it suitable for smaller recreational vehicles.
Space limitations: Lone Tree Campground offers more structured sites for RVs. Karla reports finding "well maintained road and level parking. There is no shade but each camp site has a shade structure, picnic table, and fire pit," amenities rarely found at the more primitive sites near Leadore.
