Camping near Macks Inn, Idaho offers options that balance proximity to Yellowstone with more secluded forest experiences. Located at an elevation of approximately 6,500 feet in the Targhee National Forest, this region experiences cool nights even during summer months, with temperatures often dropping into the 40s. Cell service varies significantly throughout the area, with dispersed sites typically having limited connectivity while developed campgrounds offer more reliable coverage.
What to do
Fishing access points: Targhee Creek provides excellent fishing opportunities with relatively uncrowded spots. "Nice sized relatively level grassy sights along the mile and a half road to the creek. The road is quite rough but I did fine in my small two-wheel drive SUV. Very quiet and secluded. Good cell signal," notes one visitor to Targhee Creek.
Wildlife viewing areas: Madison Campground offers prime locations for animal sightings. "Three bison lumbered through our camp shortly after dinner! It hailed on us in late May and rained pretty consistently but the campground was great! Friendly staff upfront," shares a camper who stayed at Madison Campground.
Winter sports preparation: Many campgrounds in the area close after first snowfall, but winter camping is available for those properly equipped. "We went while it was raining…..would not recommend. It was incredibly muddy and had lots of standing water. We did see come bears and elk from our site which was fun! Basically, good weather is recommend!" advises a Targhee Creek visitor.
What campers like
River proximity: Buffalo Campground offers sites with direct water access. "Very well developed campground. Large but doesn't feel large or crowded. All of the B sites were very nice with tent pads and well built fire pits. Bathrooms were sufficient and convenient, as was potable water," reports a camper at Buffalo Campground.
Mountain views: Redrock RV Park provides scenic landscape views away from tourist centers. "The journey out here feels like you're approaching a special place. It's isolated and quiet yet still so close to the action of Yellowstone NP & West Yellowstone. Every employee we encountered was so friendly and helpful," notes a visitor to Redrock RV Park.
Shower facilities: Several campgrounds offer high-quality bathing facilities. "I'll say, this campground has the nicest restrooms and showers I have EVER seen for a campground. Clean, warm, and with great water pressure. Hope to be back!" remarks a camper at Henrys Lake State Park Campground.
What you should know
Weather variability: Rapid temperature changes affect camping comfort year-round. "It did rain, snow, and hail during our trip, which everyone says was not expected for this time of year but not shocking considering it's late September," mentions a Redrock RV Park visitor.
Site reservations: Most established campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Call for reservations! We were struggling to find a spot this past weekend and secured the last pullthru spot by calling from weak service at Grants," advises a Madison Campground camper.
Insect considerations: Bug populations can impact camping experiences, particularly near water. "The flies were unbearable despite using spray of all kinds. Night time was enjoyable when they went away but it was hard to enjoy while being attacked in the eyes and face," warns a visitor to Henry's Lake BLM Dispersed.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "It has a great store and bathrooms. It's got lots of trees and backs up into the forest. Kids are not often supervised by adults so be very careful when driving," notes a visitor at Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park.
Junior Ranger programs: Yellowstone National Park offers educational activities for children. "Large but quiet campground. Each site on the loop I stayed was a pull through. Very flat parking. Large, well spaced sites. Simple but clean restrooms," mentions a Madison Campground camper who used it as a base for park activities.
Family-friendly trails: Several shorter hiking options exist for those with younger children. "The water this time of year is too high and too cold for us to swim/wade in but our dogs love it! Plenty of space to spread out and enjoy a private camping experience!" shares a Targhee Creek visitor.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites require additional equipment for proper leveling. "The site we have is no real level so we had to park in the middle of the slot so we barely have enough room for the pick up. We are here for a week so I may add to this other the week," notes a camper at Yellowstone Park-Mountainside KOA.
Dump station locations: Plan waste management carefully as not all campgrounds offer on-site dumping. "They have fresh water fill but no dump station. I would recommend trying to make a reservation it was busy but we got a first come first serve site. Get here early afternoon!" advises a visitor to Bakers Hole Campground.
Road condition alerts: Some campgrounds require careful navigation on unpaved roads. "The road in is Gravel and 2 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 45 feet. You may stay 14 at Henry Lake BLM," explains a Henry's Lake BLM Dispersed camper who found the location suitable for larger rigs despite access challenges.
