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."
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