Primitive camping options line both sides of the Salmon River, providing rugged overnight spots with minimal amenities but direct river access. Salmon sits at 3,944 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 85°F during peak camping season from June through September. Winter months see significant snowfall that restricts access to many dispersed camping areas.
What to do
Fishing access points: Camp Creek BLM Camping offers multiple fishing spots along the Salmon River. One camper noted, "Plenty of fishing access and space to walk around the river. Beautiful place to adventure and be, would be a great spot for multiple nights."
River recreation: Century 2 Campground & RV Park provides easy water access for cooling off during hot days. "We enjoyed 2 nights here alongside the river with full hookups. Easy 5 minute walk to town. Great local grocery, bakery, and a few breweries," reports one visitor.
Night sky viewing: For stargazers, primitive sites offer excellent viewing opportunities. A camper at Camp Creek BLM Camping shared, "Perfect view of the big dipper between the canyon view made for a beautiful night of star gazing by the fire ring."
What campers like
River proximity: Many sites feature direct river access for swimming and paddling. At Waddington Creek Primitive Campsite, a visitor mentioned, "Super nice being next to a river, road wasn't a problem with loud traffic. Good hammock trees."
Privacy between sites: Bobcat Gulch offers secluded sites despite its popularity. "Pretty small and basic campground. I counted what I think was 9 sites? There are no numbered sites, just designated fire rings to indicate the different sites."
Fall colors: Seasonal campers appreciate autumn camping near Salmon. One Waddington Creek visitor wrote, "It's fall and the colors are outstanding. Yellows and oranges surround the banks, the river. I have the whole campground to myself—all two sites."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Salmon have limited connectivity. At Twin Lakes, campers noted the remoteness: "It is a very off the beaten path, tucked away in the woods, true getaway from the busy city life."
Road conditions: Access to remote sites often requires careful driving. One Twin Lakes visitor warned, "Road is best traveled with AWD-4WD. Campgrounds are nice and level for tents."
Site availability: Bobcat Gulch fills quickly during peak seasons. A camper reported, "We tried to stop here for an overnight, but it was completely full! There were so many trucks, trailers, camper vans, etc."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly water: Dog-friendly sites with calm water work well for children. At Twin Lakes, a visitor mentioned, "The lake is for non motorized water crafts only. Perfect for first time swimmers."
Space requirements: Look for sites with room for multiple tents and activities. Twin Lakes offers generous sites: "Site 10 had room for 3 tents, 3 SUVs, 1 picnic table + extra side table, fire ring/grill, canoe, chairs around fire and shoreline, laundry lines."
Weather preparation: Elk Bend RV Park provides reliable amenities for families needing comfort. "We stayed two nights in this delightful peaceful campground. The owner was incredibly nice, accommodating and kept this place so well-maintained."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for water views: For pet-friendly camping with river views, Century 2 offers premium spots. A camper mentioned, "We have done only boondocking but were tired and wanted proximity to town. A few spots left and asked for one on the river, which had its own deck."
Hookup availability: Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground provides full-service sites for larger rigs. An RVer noted, "Big spaces in the middle area. Smaller spots on the river. Modest but competent shower and laundry room."
Level parking concerns: At primitive camping areas, finding level spots can be challenging. A Waddington Creek camper warned, "Very steep grand off highway to one site. Not recommended if you are pulling any type of camper."
