Tent camping in Mackay, Idaho offers sites between 4,000 and 9,000 feet elevation across the Lost River Range and surrounding national forest land. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during daytime with nighttime lows dropping to 40-50°F even in July. Most remote sites require bringing all water supplies due to limited natural sources during late summer months.
What to do
Alpine hiking access: Mt. Borah Trailhead provides direct access to Idaho's highest peak. "Wow! Absolutely the best spot to set up camp if you're looking at doing an alpine attempt on the roof of Idaho, Mt. Borah! The campground sits right around 7200' which is a decent bit cooler than the Big Lost River Valley to the west," notes Alan B.
Summit preparation: Allow sufficient time to acclimate at higher elevations before major hikes. "If you're planning on summiting Borah it's a good idea to get an alpine start <6 AM so you don't get baked by the sun as there's no shade the last 2 miles and sparse shade the first 1.5."
Bird watching: Fish Creek Reservoir area offers wildlife viewing opportunities. "We saw bald eagles among other cool birds," reports a camper at Fish Creek Reservoir. The area becomes particularly active during morning and evening hours.
What campers like
Stream-side camping: Timber Creek Campground offers multiple water-adjacent sites. "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," shares a visitor at Timber Creek.
Uncrowded sites: Many Mackay area campgrounds remain relatively quiet even during peak season. "I was worried I wouldn't get a spot so I got there early. Only 1 other family was camping there."
Secluded options: Uncle Johns Gulch offers more private tent spots in a valley setting. "Large campsites next to stream nestled in a beautiful valley. Hiking/mtb trail next to campsites," reports one camper.
What you should know
Water limitations: Even campgrounds listing water access may have unreliable sources. "The portable water on site has a yellow tint to it even after letting it run for a min or so. It was good enough for me and the dogs to drink but not for my wife," reports a camper at Little Wood River.
Road conditions: Most campground access roads require careful driving. "Road into the campground was totally fine and passable, sites are well laid out and kept," notes one visitor about Fish Creek Reservoir.
Connectivity considerations: Cell service is extremely limited throughout the area. "No cell service whatsoever, so be aware of that," warns a camper. This applies to most remote campgrounds in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Weather preparation: Pack for significant temperature fluctuations even in summer. "If going in fall, prepare for some ice in the evening and light fog," advises a visitor to Hyndman Campground.
Free camping options: Several no-cost sites exist with basic amenities. "This is a free campground so I tried to rate it accordingly. First off it does not have water at this location. So you'll need to bring your own," explains a visitor at Broad Canyon Campground.
Early season planning: Most higher elevation campgrounds open late spring through mid-October. "The reservoir, like many in this area, is very low most of the year and you should probably contact BLM to see what the status is before you go."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV camping requires advance planning for larger vehicles. "Sites are big and able to accommodate even larger RVs (although the guy across from me struggled to fit his 30' rig in his spot, he did it!)," reports a visitor at Iron Bog Campground.
Alternative boondocking: Dispersed options exist near established campgrounds. "There were several boondocking sites on the way to the campground," notes one RVer about the area approaching Iron Bog.
Extended stay provisions: Limited services mean bringing sufficient supplies. "Very few bugs. Water available and vaulted bathrooms. Lots of space between camp grounds," shares an RVer about Timber Creek, noting the basic but adequate facilities.
Legend
