Camping spots near North Fork, Idaho range from primitive riverside sites to developed campgrounds at elevations between 3,500-5,000 feet. The Salmon River corridor experiences typical temperature variations from 80°F daytime highs in summer to 40°F overnight lows, with many campsites subject to limited mobile connectivity in canyon areas. River access is available at multiple locations, though water levels fluctuate seasonally with peak flows occurring in late spring.
What to do
Kayaking the Salmon River: From River's Fork Lodge & RV Park, visitors can rent kayaks to explore the calm sections of the river. "The fishing was spot on, right on the river you don't have to even drive anywhere if you don't want. They also offer kayak rentals. Unfortunately I didn't realize how warm, calm, and popular the river was. Next time we come back we will definitely float the river," reports Gabe L.
Fishing for trout: The Twin Lakes area offers excellent fly fishing opportunities with clear mountain waters. According to Mark & Kelly at Twin Lakes: "We didn't fish, but we watched others catch many trout out of kayaks with fly rods." Non-motorized boats work best here as the lakes restrict motor usage.
Historical exploration: Visit the Lewis and Clark historical sites near camping areas. The Agency Creek Campground sits directly on their historic trail route. As owen T. notes, "7 spots off the beaten path, small creek lehmi. On the Lewis and Clark trail. Bathroom is ADA."
Huckleberry picking: Seasonal huckleberry gathering makes for a rewarding activity during summer months. Robert at Twin Creek Campground remarks, "Huckleberries were ripe, added treat. Beautiful forest."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Many North Fork campsites offer direct water access. At Bobcat Gulch, Evan H. notes: "Most sites back up to the river which is pretty nice. FREE and pretty quiet for the Saturday night I stayed - 4 open spots at 8:30pm."
Well-spaced sites: Campers appreciate the privacy at certain campgrounds. Annie C. describes Twin Creek Campground: "Sites aren't too close to each other so there is some privacy, and there are lots of trees for shade and hammocks. Choose your site carefully as they are not all level and some are much larger than others."
Budget-friendly options: Several camping spots near North Fork provide affordable accommodations. Camden P. describes Morgan Bar Campground: "Small place, only 10/15 campsites. Sits right on a river, very spacious sites and super cheap ($5). Camp host is a cool guy too, that always helps."
Clean facilities: Despite remote locations, many campgrounds maintain good standards. Ginny H. says of Twin Creek Campground: "Bathrooms were really clean and great tasting water. Sites are very nicely spaced and lots of privacy between them."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires navigating unpaved roads. Mark & Kelly G. warn about Twin Lakes: "Long, bumpy road going in and out." Similarly, Chris J. adds: "It's about a 15 mile commute on a gravel road to get there. If your plan is to stay at the campsite for the duration of your visit I would recommended it. But if you are going to explore the area you have to make the 30 mile round trip."
Temperature fluctuations: Mountain camping means preparing for cold nights even in summer. Katie G. notes about Twin Lakes: "In July it gets to be around 30° F at night so bring lots of extra blankets."
Insect activity: Mosquitoes can be problematic in certain areas. Lorrie K. mentions at Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground: "So close to a five star campground if it were not for the swarming mosquitoes anywhere in the shade."
Limited services: Many campgrounds lack facilities urban campers might expect. Ben H. reports at Morgan Bar: "I stayed here for one night. It is $5 per night. I had decent Verizon signal. There were at least eight camping areas. The camping limit for this area is 14 days."
Tips for camping with families
Choose shaded sites: Heat can be intense during summer months. Inez at Spring Creek Campground warns: "I would not recommend end of July/August. Temps 100 and no breeze."
Bring entertainment: Some campgrounds lack dedicated children's activities. Gabe L. suggests about River's Fork Lodge: "If there was really anything they could add, would possibly be something for kids to do. Just as a family of four with a 3 and 6 year old, they can only fish so much."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule morning wildlife spotting excursions. Inez notes: "Plenty to see if traveling in vehicle like bighorn sheep, whitetail deer and bald eagles."
Stock up on supplies: Remote locations mean limited shopping options. Lorrie K. advises: "Nearest town with groceries etc. is in Salmon so stock up before you go."
Tips from RVers
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. Brian C. shares his experience at Wagonhammer: "No cell service (AT&T & Sprint). Poor WiFi. If you are a digital nomad and stay here then go to Salmon (30-minute drive), turn left, and a few blocks down on your left is the public library. It's the best wifi you'll find."
Big rig accessibility: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. Chip K. cautions about Tower Rock: "Loop is a bit tight in spots so I wouldn't recommend it for a large 5'er or motorhome."
Spacing between sites: RVers appreciate adequate site separation. Melody M. notes: "Camp sites are well spaced with their own fire pits and picnic tables. The roads and campsites are paved."
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Julie W. reports about Morgan Bar: "We stopped here to sleep on our way to Glacier NP. It was easy to find but off the main road and quiet. Very clean campsites with fire pits and trash cans."
