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Camping near Salmon-Challis National Forest, Idaho

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Salmon-Challis National Forest offers campgrounds and campsites across Idaho's rugged terrain, from primitive dispersed sites to developed campgrounds with picnic tables and vault toilets. Travelers will find options like Indian Springs and Mosquito Flat Reservoir for primitive camping, as well as developed sites such as Custer #1 Campground and Big Bayhorse Campground. The area features a mix of tent sites, RV-compatible areas, and locations with varying amenities. Most dispersed camping areas remain primitive with minimal facilities, while established campgrounds may offer picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, and occasionally drinking water.

Road conditions present significant challenges for accessing many campgrounds in the region. The route to Big Bayhorse Campground requires high clearance vehicles according to multiple visitor accounts, with one camper noting it took "about 45 minutes" to navigate the "long, windy, rocky, dirt road." Indian Springs similarly requires proper vehicles, with a visitor reporting that while their "F-150 was able to do it, anything longer or with less clearance would struggle." Most camping areas are seasonal, typically open from late May through September or October due to mountain weather conditions. Vault toilets are common at established sites, but visitors should plan to bring their own water and pack out trash. A recent review noted, "Bring plenty for drinking and other daily uses!"

Campers consistently mention the exceptional night sky viewing opportunities and peaceful settings throughout the Salmon-Challis area. Sites near water features receive particularly positive feedback, with Big Bayhorse Lake and locations along the Salmon River being highlights. Several visitors noted the excellent fishing opportunities, especially for families. A camper at Big Bayhorse reported, "Fishing was perfect for young boys that need to catch something frequently to keep them engaged." While most campgrounds remain uncrowded except on holiday weekends, visitors should arrive early to secure waterfront sites. The region's beauty comes with trade-offs - many areas lack cell service, have limited amenities, and may experience seasonal bugs, but the spectacular scenery and solitude make these compromises worthwhile for most outdoor enthusiasts.

Best Camping Sites Near Salmon-Challis National Forest (169)

    1. Indian Springs

    1 Review
    Salmon-Challis National Forest, ID
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 879-4101

    2. Old Drag campsite

    1 Review
    Stanley, ID
    9 miles

    "Cute campsite with an old dragline excavator next to it. Access to the river, nice little fire ring"

    3. Mahoney Complex

    1 Review
    Salmon-Challis National Forest, ID
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 849-4101

    4. Challis Hot Springs

    13 Reviews
    Challis, ID
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 879-4442

    $29 - $43 / night

    "Sure there are a bazillion to choose from along the highway, but I wanted to soak in the highly reviewed waters. I was NOT disappointed!!!"

    "showers; camp store with ice; WiFi; wildlife(two mountain goats lead me in on the road); walking trail; shade trees(no hammocks allowed). And it is next to the Snake river. Seriously??"

    5. Mosquito Flat Reservoir

    1 Review
    Challis, ID
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 879-4100

    "Near the lake. No water, has vault toilets. Roads can be slick."

    6. Custer #1 Campground

    2 Reviews
    Clayton, ID
    17 miles
    Website

    "Really cool massive boulders are in and around the campground, and even though it is along the pass and near a beautiful gorge, you really can’t see anything beyond the campground due to the terrain."

    "NO cell service whatsoever here either(AT&T) Location works for exploring the local areas up and down the fork"

    7. Big Bayhorse

    5 Reviews
    Clayton, ID
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 879-4100

    "I did it with my Tacoma pulling a tiny camper but when I arrived at the lake, there were much larger vehicles than mine already there."

    "This place was recommended by our camp host in lower Idaho. We made the drive up in our F-350 diesel and it felt sketchy in a few places. Took about 45 min."

    8. Mill Creek

    1 Review
    Challis, ID
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 879-4321

    "My top sites of choice are sites 2 and 3 because of the shade and proximity to the creek. Site 3 is closer to the vault toilet and the working water pump."

    9. Franklin Basin Winter Trail Campsite

    1 Review
    Clayton, ID
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 999-2103

    10. Fly Creek Campsite

    Be the first to review!
    Salmon-Challis National Forest, ID
    5 miles
    Website
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Showing results 1-10 of 169 campgrounds

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Recent Reviews near Salmon-Challis National Forest

407 Reviews of 169 Salmon-Challis National Forest Campgrounds


  • Superspockman
    Jul. 20, 2026

    Elk Bend RV Park

    Beware!

    Please note, we have never stayed here, but the following experience should give anyone pause about ever making reservations, and then trying to cancel later. And, if the owner('Stu') is as corrupt and non-customer focused as he was in this simple matter, then God help anyone staying there who has a REAL problem! Our experience validates some bad reviews about this‘Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde’ owner! Here's our story: We made reservations online via RoverPass on 1 May, 2026 staying for three days in September, 2026, 4-1/2 MONTHS away, paying the full amount for all three days. Our plans changed and a month later, we canceled our reservations online via RoverPass. I then phoned Elk Bend RV Park.‘Stu’ answered. I told him that I had just canceled the reservations and he said“fine”, and hung up. I waited A WEEK and the credit had still not hit my credit card account. I phoned Elk Bend RV Park on 8 June 2026.‘Stu’ answered. I told him that“it’s been a full week now, and no refund credit has hit my credit card account”. He said“I’ll take care of it”. I said“Thanks”. End of conversation. A day or two later, I phoned Elk Bend RV Park and the call went over to voicemail after two or three rings. I figured I'd give the guy a couple more days, and called again on 11 June 2026. The call immediately went over to voicemail, no dial tone, nothing! Apparently, he had BLOCKED my number! At that point, I went online to my credit card account and logged a dispute. I attached at least 4 or 5 emails with the RoverPass reservations and cancellation to the dispute. After over a month, the credit was finally applied to my account. After over a month and multiple attempts, the credit card company noted that they had been unable to contact the owner! So, be forewarned, this‘Stu' character is a crook, and based on some of his reviews, a real kook, and he will keep your money unless DRASTIC action is taken! Had we paid for our reservations via check or debit card, we would have been, frankly, SCREWED! It is important to note that during this entire ordeal, we NEVER received a single phone call, email, or text message from'Stu' or anyone at ELK BEND RV Park concerning this matter! STAY AWAY! RUN, if need be! DO NOT STAY HERE! If you need a GREAT place nearby, we HIGHLY recommend Wagonhammer RV Park, in North Fork, about 42 miles North. We have stayed there three or four times over the years, and it's very nice!

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 19, 2026

    Lower O'Brien Campground

    Great spot along the Salmon River

    Lower O’Brien campground is easy to get to. Would not recommend for RV’s. Off-road trailers can do it; however, no turn around spots unless you drive through the campsite. Vault toilets are clean and water is available. No trash service and no cell service. Spots are first come first served. Bring your cash - it’s easiest. Single spots are $22/night, $11/night with senior pass and access pass. Some road noise from hwy 75 during the day. Otherwise, quiet - birds and the river only.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 18, 2026

    Colston Creek Campground

    Surprise find !

    We found this place by chance. Just off highway 93 S .. small dispersed campground .. maybe 4 sites in total with fire rings most with access to Salmon river. A decorated vault toilet with toilet paper and a small boat launch ramp. Close to the highway but noise really didn’t bother us. Spent two nights here. Free! We have a 30 ft motorhome with high clearance and found a nice place to camp up!

  • David and Charity M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2026

    Cactus River Ranch RV & Campground

    Gorgeous river view site

    Just three RV sites which made it feel private. The bathrooms with showers were very nice. Electric and water hookups right by the river was a great find!

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2026

    County Road 210 Dispersed

    Popular boondocking area

    Not far from Redfish Lake off of Highway 75 this disperse camp area has easy access for all size rigs, some places alongside Salmon River others inside the forest. We stayed two nights amongst the pine trees. It was quiet and enjoyable. Free!!

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 15, 2026

    Mormon Bend Campground

    Delightful place

    We found this campground by chance … looking for a place to rest up for 3 nights by Salmon river Mormon Bend was the perfect place to stop. We stayed at site #4 not far from the boat launch and access to the river for hubby to fish for trout. As a National Forest they accept the America the Beautiful Senior .. 50% off Reg price $26 we paid only $13… nice and clean… 13 sites in all. Host on site. Popular place for river pick up of kayaks, etc Highly recommend!

  • Natalie G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 13, 2026

    Mount Heyburn Campground

    Spacious sites in the forest

    We had such a great stay! We came the Monday after 4th of July. We attempted to stay at Sockeye Campground first, but they were already full by 1pm. We came to Mount Heyburn by 1:15pm on a Monday and there were maybe 5 spots open.

    We chose site 12 which was a pull through. SO SPACIOUS! Tons of shade. Great picnic tables and fire pit.

    We stayed 4 nights, leaving on Friday morning. The campground was full every single night. Only reason I’m giving it 4 stars is because it feels a little risky loading up and heading there unsure whether you’ll get a spot or not. Glad we got lucky!

    There are no hookups, but there are 2 separate pit toilets and a few water spigots around the campsite. Dumpsters for trash too. We brought our generator and fired it up for a few hours in the mater afternoon for air conditioning, and to charge phones. We filled up with fresh water before arriving.

    There’s a dump station right on the at in/out called Stanley Ranger Station Dump Station. You can fill fresh water before, and dump tanks on the way out. $12 fee for the dump station.

    It’s walkable to Redfish lake, or you can drive there in less than 2 minutes. Plenty of free parking at the lake.

    Sockeye campground has better views of the lake, but I feel like Mount Heyburn is way more spacious and remote feeling. The sites are well spread out.

    Just $24 a night! You can stay up to 10 nights. The camp host was fine. There’s firewood available to purchase. I think it was $10 a bundle? We brought our own firewood.

    Will definitely be back! We loved lake days, got dinner in town 1 night, reserved a hot spring at mountain village resort (highly recommend!), brought our SUP to redfish lake, let the kids swim and play in the sand, easy fishing for kids at the lake, got soft serve ice cream at Redfish Lake Lodge at sunset one night (another amazing spot to spend the day!). Enough room at the campsite we could hike above and set up bow and arrow target practice safely away from other campers. We loved walks around the campground after dinner. I wish we would have brought bikes for the kids to ride! Perfect little loop!

  • Abby O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 13, 2026

    Waddington Creek Primitive Campsite

    Cool spot

    Step downhill to get to site. Right on river with a little beach. Locals do use this spot to swim in & lit off a firework right next to my dog hence the lower review


Guide to Salmon-Challis National Forest

Salmon-Challis National Forest spans over 4.3 million acres across central Idaho, with elevations ranging from 3,000 to over 10,000 feet. This diverse landscape includes alpine terrain, sagebrush plains, and river canyons, creating varied camping conditions. Summer temperatures can fluctuate dramatically between day and night, often dropping 30-40 degrees after sunset even during peak season.

What to do

Fishing at alpine lakes: Big Bayhorse Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities for families. A visitor at Big Bayhorse noted, "Caught 6 trout in the first hour. Wish we had our kayaks because the docks filled fast."

Explore ghost towns: While camping in Salmon-Challis National Forest, take time to visit nearby historic mining communities. One camper recommended, "On your way up be sure to stop at the Bayhorse State Park Ghosttown. Really well preserved and they are doing more work to continue to preserve the old mining town."

Stargaze after dark: The remote location offers exceptional night viewing with minimal light pollution. A visitor at Challis Hot Springs shared, "Very quiet and the sky view at night was amazing... clear view of the Milky Way!"

Hot springs soaking: Natural thermal features provide relaxation after hiking. "This place is a true gem. Getting to experience hot springs without hiking to them is so nice," reported one camper.

What campers like

Clean facilities: Despite remote locations, many established sites maintain quality amenities. A visitor at Custer #1 Campground mentioned, "There are picnic tables and fire rings and a clean vault toilet, but not much else."

Uncrowded weekday camping: Most areas see lower usage midweek. A camper noted, "By Friday morning several had left... Saturday morning even fewer campers were there. Easily could find a spot on a weekend."

Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse animal populations. One visitor at Challis Hot Springs reported wildlife encounters: "Two mountain goats lead me in on the road."

Riverside sites: Camping options along the Salmon River are particularly sought after. A camper at Franklin Basin Winter Trail Campsite shared, "Every spot we've camped at has a great view."

What you should know

Road conditions vary significantly: Many campgrounds require high-clearance vehicles. A camper visiting Indian Springs warned, "The campsite is great but getting to it is a challenge, my F-150 was able to do it but anything longer or with less clearance would struggle."

Water availability limited: Most primitive sites lack potable water. A camper advised, "We left early only because we didn't have enough water. Bring plenty for drinking and other daily uses!"

Seasonal insects: Bug activity peaks mid-summer. One visitor reported, "Bugs get very bad mid-summer here."

Open range territory: Cattle may roam freely through camping areas. A camper noted, "This area is open range, and there are cattle roaming the grassland next to the lake. Watch your step on the paths around the site."

Tips for camping with families

Choose sites with regular fish activity: Children enjoy consistent fishing success. According to one visitor, fishing at Big Bayhorse "was perfect for young boys that need to catch something frequently to keep them engaged."

Pack multiple layers: Temperature fluctuations require adaptable clothing even in summer months.

Consider established campgrounds: Amenities make family trips more comfortable. One visitor at Mill Creek noted, "There is also a nice day use group picnic site" near the camping area.

Arrive early for waterfront locations: Most campers prefer lake or riverside spots. A reviewer recommended, "Try and get a site at the top, even tho it puts you closer to the vault toilet. The top sites are the most level."

Tips from RVers

Check length restrictions: Many forest roads have tight turns unsuitable for larger rigs. One camper reported, "We made it partially up the steep narrow road before our truck started to over heat."

Scout campsites first: Remote locations may have limited turnaround areas. A camper at Old Drag campsite described it as a "cute campsite with an old dragline excavator next to it. Access to the river, nice little fire ring."

Plan for no hookups: Most forest service sites lack RV amenities. A visitor at Mosquito Flat Reservoir shared, "Near the lake. No water, has vault toilets. Roads can be slick."

Consider private alternatives: For full hookups, look beyond national forest boundaries. A full-time RVer reported, "We are full-timers in a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow and stayed in site 27... AT&T coverage was good, with 3 bars of LTE and speeds up to 15 MB/s."

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Custer Motorway in Salmon-Challis National Forest?

The Custer Motorway is a historic backcountry route through Salmon-Challis National Forest that follows the path taken by miners during the 1870s gold rush. This scenic byway stretches approximately 46 miles and connects Challis to Sunbeam, passing through the abandoned mining town of Custer. The motorway provides access to several historic sites and ghost towns, offering a glimpse into Idaho's mining history. Custer #1 Campground is accessible along this route, providing a convenient overnight option for travelers. The road is generally open from July through October, depending on snow conditions. Most of the route requires high-clearance vehicles, and four-wheel drive is recommended, especially after rain. Always check current road conditions before attempting this backcountry drive.

Where are the best camping spots in Salmon-Challis National Forest?

Salmon-Challis National Forest offers outstanding camping options across its vast terrain. Stanley Lake Campground provides stunning lake views and convenient walk-up sites, though it's popular in peak summer months. Yellowjacket Guard Station offers a unique experience with its remote feel and historic setting, making it an excellent basecamp for wilderness exploration. For those seeking dispersed camping, areas near the Salmon River offer free boondocking with a 10-day stay limit between May and September. The forest also features numerous smaller campgrounds with amenities ranging from basic (pit toilets only) to more developed sites with water access. Many campgrounds are first-come, first-served, so arriving mid-week or early in the day is recommended during peak season.

Are there any pit closures or restrictions in Salmon-Challis National Forest?

Salmon-Challis National Forest typically implements seasonal fire restrictions during dry summer months that may affect campfire use. These restrictions can range from requiring fires only in designated fire rings to complete bans during extreme conditions. Iron Creek Campground and other popular areas maintain vault toilets that are generally open during the main camping season (May-September), though facilities at higher elevations may close earlier due to snow access issues. Redfish Lake Overflow Dispersed and similar dispersed camping areas enforce a 10-day stay limit between May 1 and September. Before heading out, check the Salmon-Challis National Forest website or contact a ranger station for current information on road closures, facility maintenance, and seasonal restrictions, as these can change based on weather, wildlife considerations, and maintenance schedules.